When Richie Rosenberg first picked up the trombone in his hometown of Philadelphia, he could never have imagined the musical journey on which his horn would take him. From the George Washington High School Marching Band to the Max Weinberg 7, he has become one of the most recognizable musicians in his field.

Almost 30 years ago Richie brought his trombone, voice, contagious laugh and personality to Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, a band he still performs with to this date. Currently LaBamba is a household name to late-nighters through his playing and involvement in skits such as "In The Year 2000," on Late Night with Conan O'Brien, seen nightly nationwide on NBC at 12:35 AM.

It has been with his own band, LaBamba and the Hubcaps, that Richie's been able to display his talents in the concert field and private sector. When he brings together the Hubcaps or his Big Band with all 18 pieces of soul, big band standards and contemporary classics take on a new, wondrous life. A further measure of his versatility is revealed in other performance venues. Richie is no stranger to being at the ready for benefits, and was called on by Jon Bon Jovi for the Special Olympics' "Very Special Christmas" television special. This semi-annual event hosted by President and Mrs. Clinton at the White House was broadcast nationally for millions to enjoy.

Richie LaBamba is one of a handful of professionals who has been the engine and steady hand driving so much music for so many years. The astonishment that emerges from those lucky enough to watch him and his band live is gratifying to those of us who know him and his work.