- "Bold, heartfelt, and steeped in music, Just Play Like You Do in the Basement hits with both soul and swing." -Kyle Eaton, Manhattan Book Review (US) - "Candid, rhythmic and deeply human. . . it's much about identity as it is about show business. . . Plenty to savor here.-The Prairies Book Review (Canada) - ". . . A worthy addition that can be recommended to a wide audience. . ."-Diane Donovan, Midwest Book Review (US) - ". . . A sparkling example of inspiration. . ."-Matt McAvoy Book Review (UK) At eighteen, Rick Porrello leaves his basement drum room in Cleveland to tour the world as the drummer for Sammy Davis, Jr., the iconic showman known for decades as "the greatest entertainer in the world." Driven by his father's ambition, the musical influence of the great drummer Louie Bellson, and following his older brother's path, Ricky performs in dazzling cities-Las Vegas, Lake Tahoe, London, Paris and Sydney-while navigating the intense world of travel and show business. As the youngest member of Sammy's entourage, he's swept up in the thrill of international touring, new experiences, and the offstage fun that comes with life on the road. Along the way, he experiences the ache of first love and the magnetic pull of a chemistry that feels both thrilling and forbidden. Offstage, Ricky wrestles with a growing sense that the stage may not be his future. Ultimately, he makes a life-changing decision: to walk away from a promising music career. He would go on to serve in law enforcement, rising through the ranks in a career defined by discipline and duty

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