Russ Rankin

We talk with Russ Rankin, the founder and songwriter of punk band Good Riddance.

Russ is another lifelong Santa Cruz local. In the spirit of the podcast, we focus on Russ’ local roots - where he grew up (everywhere…he moved a lot) and what the local music scene was like when he was growing up and discovering new local bands and local venues. We also delve into how he became a vegan and how politics influences his songwriting.

Like many artists, Russ didn’t start out with the idea “I’m going to lead a legendary punk band.” Instead, it was learning drums at an early age, being a music fan, and crossing paths with teachers who said “you have something special - you need to do something with this.” Flash forward a few years, and Russ was creating bands and playing the local party scene. 

He eventually crossed paths with guitarist Luke Pabich, and things clicked. Russ started writing, and he and Luke hit the road hard, playing every venue they could and passing out demo tapes (remember “tapes?”) until one landed in the hands of “Fat” Mike Burkett (Fat Wreck Chords, NOFX) We talk about how “you make your own luck” through hard work. Russ and Luke certainly did. 

Outside of Good Riddance, Russ is a scout for the Tri Cities Americans hockey team (from Kennewick, Washington). As of this interview, the band is getting ready for festivals and summer shows.

For more on Good Riddance, including their tour schedule, please visit grpunk.com

Russ Rankin on Social Media

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Good Riddance on Social Media

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Song Credit: Libertine, by Good Riddance - Courtesy Fat Wreck Chords

Photo Credit: Lindsey Lutts McGuire