Suncoast Post Exclusive – Cheap Trick’s Rick Nielsen Brings His Rock’N Vodka Brand to Tampa
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame guitarist Rick Nielsen blew into the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino last week to give away some of his award-winning spirits. Lucky VIP guests of the Tampa Hard Rock were invited to meet Rick and have their gift of Rock’N Vodka autographed along with a complimentary photo. There was a line waiting for Rick upon his arrival as co-owner and Ambassador for the company. He was fun and charming as he chatted with fans. The line stayed busy for the two hours he appeared. Everyone from Cheap Trick fans to Hard Rock regulars were checking out the cool Rock’N Vodka bottle design.
Rick’s involvement with Rock’N Vodka started with his investment in the Rockford Hard Rock Casino in his hometown, Rockford, Illinois which is also the famed impetus of Cheap Trick. He met founder Andy Roiniotis, Vice-President of Rock’N Vodka through the Hard Rock and became an investor in the Non-GMO, Gluten Free sugarcane made vodka. Rick and his wife Karen are now co-owners and Rick is the face doing appearances all over the country to promote the fast-growing vodka.
Currently the company is offering a chance for the public to invest. The minimum investment is $300 and stock shares are at $4.00. You can get all the information on the website as well as for ordering Rock’N Vodka online to be delivered to your home or office. There is merch available, T-shirts, cups and Rick autographed items and some great recipes for cocktails. Check it all out at Rock’N Vodkas
Of course, Rick’s appearances have to work around Cheap Trick’s busy tour schedule. Cheap Trick Currently the band is starting a tour on April 20th with Heart on their “Royal Flush” tour throughout the summer. In-between the Heart tour, there are stadium dates with Def Leppard & Journey, one of which will stop in Orlando on July 10th. Trick is busier than ever after over 50 years in rock & roll! The Heart tour will stop on Friday, April 26th at Amalie Arena in Tampa. You can still purchase tickets for all shows at Ticketmaster
At 75 years old, Rick Nielsen isn’t slowing down. Don’t miss him on tour as one of the most iconic guitarists in rock with his famous five-neck guitar. Everything about Rick at Rick Nielsen.
Vicky Sullivan Photos