Richard Pinkston IV

DETROIT - “Rick Allen“ passed away on Independence day (July 4, 2018) this was very fitting for him, because he was truly unique. Born December 16, 1953, He began writing for Detroit-based Creem Magazine (as R. A. Pinkston IV) when he was 16. A vivid early rock and roll memory is of being a five year-old mesmerized by a TV performance by Little Richard. His first guitar was a Kay Casino that his father had gotten while in the Army during World War II. Many guitarists who have influenced him included his best friend Guy Barker and his junior high French teacher, Gloria Bildsen.

Rick also worked as a radio disc jockey; first at WRIF-FM starting when he was 17 then for almost 27 year at WYSP in Philadelphia where for a time he was one of the last few DJ’s at a major market radio station to program his own show. He continued to write (most notably for VG and Blurt-online) and he performed solo and with his band Rick Allen and the Upsetters.

Richard leaves behind his wife of 30 years Diane Lucas, his mother Doris, his sisters & a host of nieces & nephews.

Visitation July 14th at 8:30 AM with Service to follow at 9 AM at James H. Cole Home for Funerals in Detroit, MI.