He was born in New London, Connecticut on May 13, 1945. In the 1960s he went to college in Worcester and became friends with John Geils and Danny Klein eventually forming the J. Geils Band in 1968.
His harmonica gives the band a distinct sound and is a prominent instrument in most of their songs.
The ‘Magic Dick and his Lickin’ Stick’ signature song is
Whammer Jammer. It was always a favorite of BLM DJs to play back in the Litchfield trailer days (remember the Noon Tune?) of the ’70s. It remains a popular Blimp classic today.
Here's an exceptionally badass Whammer Jammer live from San Francisco at the Winterland. Magic Dick steps into the spotlight wearing his dark shades and leather jacket and just kills it.