Ricky B: The New Orleans Pioneer Who Had You "Shake For Ya Hood"

When you talk about the foundation of New Orleans bounce music, the conversation isn’t complete without mentioning Ricky B—the St. Bernard–born artist whose influence helped shape an entire genre and preserve a culture. Known to the world as the voice behind the iconic 1994 anthem “Shake For Ya Hood,” Ricky B (real name Rick Bickham) is both a musical pioneer and a storyteller of a New Orleans that existed long before Hurricane Katrina reshaped the city forever.

The Sound of New Orleans in One Anthem

Ricky B’s signature hit, “Shake For Ya Hood”—also known as “Shake It Fo Ya Hood” or the uncensored “Shake For Your Muthafkn Hood If It’s All Good”—quickly became a bounce classic. The song shouted out neighborhoods and housing projects across the city, instantly making it an anthem for pride, unity, and the raw energy that defined New Orleans street culture. Its beat, crafted with elements inspired by brass bands and even touches of Mardi Gras Indian chants, captured the heartbeat of the city.

In a rare stroke of brilliance and foresight for its time, the track avoided copyright issues thanks to the producer replaying the melody of The Staple Singers’ “I’ll Take You There” instead of sampling the original. Because of that, “Shake For Ya Hood” remains one of the few early bounce records that can be legally reissued today.

A Pioneer of Bounce and a Voice for the Community

Growing up in the St. Bernard projects in the 7th Ward, Ricky B pulled directly from his environment—its sounds, rhythms, struggles, and celebrations—to create music that truly represented New Orleans life. He became known not just as an artist, but as a cultural historian, capturing the essence of the city’s pre-Katrina housing developments and the people who lived there.

His contributions have solidified him as one of the godfathers of bounce, standing alongside names like Big Freedia as a central figure in the genre’s rise.

Life After Music: Preserving the Culture and Giving Back

In recent years, Ricky B has expanded his legacy far beyond the stage. He authored a powerful book titled Shake For Your Muthafkn Hood If It’s All Good, reflecting on life in the now-demolished St. Bernard projects, documenting stories and memories that might have otherwise been lost to time.

He has also remained deeply committed to community work. Ricky B founded a non-profit focused on helping families visit loved ones who are incarcerated, demonstrating his devotion to uplifting and supporting the people of New Orleans.

Today, he continues to perform—often backed by live musicians—bringing bounce music’s rich history into the present and ensuring the culture remains alive for the next generation.

A Legacy That Will Always Shake the City

Ricky B’s imprint on New Orleans music and culture is undeniable. From creating one of the genre’s most timeless bounce anthems to preserving the stories of a lost era, he stands as a legend who helped define the sound and soul of the city.

He didn’t just make people dance—he made them represent their hood. And New Orleans will always shake for Ricky B.