Meet Alex Ridio | Singer-Songwriter, Internationally published model, Vintage Enthusiast, and entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alex Ridio and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alex, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Born and raised in Torrance, California, my journey into the world of music began at the tender age of five when my parents gifted me a karaoke boom box. From that moment on, my younger self was hooked, belting out classics like “Over the Rainbow” and “I Love Rock ‘n Roll.” It wasn’t until middle school that I discovered the powerful influence of strong female artists such as Joan Jett, Suzi Quatro, and Pat Benatar. Encouraged by my parents, I embarked on a journey of voice lessons, honing my craft and uncovering my true musical identity. A pivotal figure in my musical development was my father, Anthony Ridio, whose love for vintage music from the 1940s-1960s exposed me to the timeless melodies of classic cinema and vintage tunes. Inspired by artists like Ricky Nelson, Ray Price, Patsy Cline, and Tammy Wynette, I found my calling as a country singer and songwriter, drawn to the genre’s heartfelt storytelling and emotive melodies.

Straight out of high school, I began performing weekly at the Old Town Torrance coffee shop’s open mic nights, captivating audiences with vintage covers. My popularity soared, leading to my first official gig at a 75th birthday party, where I serenaded a generation with songs they grew up with. My favorite moment was when an audience member pulled out a picture of her and Elvis Presley in the 1950s. I will never forget that. Eager to expand my musical horizons, I enrolled in the music program at Los Angeles Harbor College, where I earned multiple certificates in music and songwriting, and three associate’s degrees. My educational journey continued at California State Dominguez Hills, where I obtained a bachelor’s degree in vocal performance, honing my skills and deepening my passion for music.

During my career, I have been privileged to perform on the stages of renowned venues such as The Western Swing Out, Baja Bop Carnival Cruise, Saint Rocke, House of Blues, Hotel Cafe, the Lighthouse, and the Viper Room. My favorite opportunity was working with elderly individuals suffering from dementia, aiming to improve their quality of life through the power of music by performing songs they grew up with.

As a songwriter, I find profound joy in crafting music within the timeless genre of vintage Country. This style, with its roots deep in storytelling and emotional expression, allows me to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. I believe in the transformative power of country music lyrics to convey valuable life lessons, evoke empathy, and forge strong connections between the artist and the audience. Country music has always been a vessel for storytelling, where every lyric holds the potential to resonate with someone’s personal experience. I aim to harness this power in my songwriting, creating narratives that reflect the complexities of love, heartbreak, and the pursuit of happiness. My goal is to make listeners feel understood and less alone in their struggles, fostering a sense of shared humanity through my songs.

Among the songs I’ve written, “I Will Cry For You” holds a special place in my heart. This song tells the poignant story of a girl who loses herself in a toxic relationship. Through vivid imagery and heartfelt lyrics, I explore her journey of self-discovery and the painful process of breaking free from a destructive bond. Performing “I Will Cry For You” is always an emotional experience. There have been moments when I’ve seen tears in the eyes of audience members, a testament to the song’s ability to touch hearts. These reactions mean the world to me, as they signify that my music has truly connected with someone on a deep, emotional level. It is in these moments that I feel the true purpose of my craft – to touch lives and evoke real, raw emotions. For as long as I live, I will continue to weave stories of love, heartbreak, and the pursuit of happiness into my songs. Each lyric and melody is crafted with the intent of keeping the rich tradition of vintage country music alive. This genre, with its authentic and heartfelt storytelling, deserves to be cherished and passed down through generations. My dedication to this craft is unwavering. I strive to ensure that every song I write can stand the test of time, offering solace, understanding, and a sense of connection to all who listen. By staying true to the roots of vintage country music, I hope to contribute to its legacy and ensure that its powerful messages continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Let me introduce you to my second hobby, vintage fashion! From the tender age of 12, my fascination with vintage treasures began. Introduced to the world of vintage and antiques by my mother Stephanie Ridio, I was dazzled by the allure of old Hollywood glamour and the timeless elegance of vintage style. What started as a childhood hobby soon blossomed into a lifelong passion, driving me to immerse myself in the enchanting world of vintage collectibles.

When the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe, like many, I found myself searching for ways to adapt and thrive in the face of uncertainty. It was during this challenging time that I decided to turn my passion for vintage into something more tangible—a small business that would not only allow me to share my love for all things vintage but also provide a source of joy and nostalgia for others. Thus, “I’m Your Vintage Gal” was born—a quaint vintage shop dedicated to preserving the beauty and charm of bygone eras. Drawing inspiration from the golden age of Hollywood film and the eclectic styles of yesteryears, I curated a diverse collection of vintage treasures, spanning from the Edwardian era to the swinging sixties. In the midst of a pandemic, I took the leap and started small, setting up pop-up shops at the Torrance Antique Street Faire, where I had the opportunity to connect with fellow vintage enthusiasts and share my passion for timeless fashion and decor.

The response was overwhelmingly positive, reaffirming my belief in the enduring appeal of vintage culture. As the world gradually reopened, I seized the opportunity to expand my venture, officially opening an antique booth at Long Beach Vintage Etc – Antiques in June of 2021. Nestled amidst a treasure trove of antiques and curiosities, “I’m Your Vintage Gal” found its home, offering visitors a curated selection of vintage finds to inspire and delight. Today, “I’m Your Vintage Gal” continues to thrive as a haven for vintage lovers and nostalgia seekers alike. With each carefully curated piece, I aim to not only preserve the past but also evoke the spirit of a bygone era—a reminder of simpler times and enduring elegance in a fast-paced world. As I embark on this journey, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share my passion with others and to play a small part in keeping the magic of vintage alive for generations to come. You can follow my shop’s page on instagram and facebook: @imyourvintagegal and shop in person at Long Beach Vintage Etc: 737 Pine Ave, Long Beach, CA 90813

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Growing up with an older father was a unique experience, one that shaped my love for vintage culture, history, and the arts. My dad, Anthony Ridio, not only introduced me to a world of pop culture, music, and film from his era but also instilled in me a deep appreciation for the timeless classics that have left an indelible mark on our hearts. From the captivating stories of his experiences working in the film industry on iconic movies like the original “Alien” and “Total Recall” to his unforgettable encounters with legends like Elvis Presley, Sal Mineo, David Janssen, and Edward G. Robinson, my dad’s larger-than-life tales always left me in awe. And whenever I doubted the truth of his adventures, he would effortlessly produce evidence, leaving me doubly amazed.

Despite his reservations about the entertainment industry’s challenges, my dad stood by me every step of the way, offering unwavering support and encouragement. He recognized my passion for music and willingly signed me up for voice and guitar lessons, igniting a spark that would eventually become my life’s passion. My father didn’t just stop at moral support; he became my ultimate stage dad, accompanying me to gigs, transporting equipment, and even doubling as my personal promoter. Whether it was handing out business cards at the dog park or scouting for new vintage songs for me to perform, he was always there, tirelessly championing my dreams and aspirations. Today, I stand as a testament to the love, dedication, and unwavering belief my father has shown me throughout my journey. His guidance has been my compass, his wisdom my anchor, and his love my greatest source of strength. To Anthony Ridio—my mentor, my confidant, and my biggest fan—thank you for being the rock upon which I build my dreams.

Website: https://alexridio.com

Instagram: Music and modeling: @alexridio / Shop IG: @imyourvintagegal

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexridio/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/alexridio

Other: https://www.backstage.com/u/alex-ridio/

Image Credits
Photos by Josh Arbour, Lisa Haagen, and Vincent Lau