Rich McCready was born in Joplin Mo.  He grew up on a farm and ranch in Seneca MO, just outside of Joplin.  He graduated from Seneca, Missouri High School.  From there he attended Southwest Baptist University and graduated with a bachelors in science in 1992. 

During his college days, McCready played country music with his father and uncles in Oklahoma and Missouri.  By the time he was twenty-one he had written a catalog of songs and moved to Nashville to pursue a songwriting career.  Upon arriving in Nashville, McCready met Allen Shambling who wrote, “The House That Built Me”, “I Thought He Walked On Water”, and “Life’s A Dance”.    Allen became a mentor for Rich, and introduced him to the icons from music row Nashville, Brent and Brian Maher.  From there Rich and Brian became best friends. Brent Maher, President of Magnatone Record Label, signed Rich as a recording artist and staff songwriter. 

Rich immediately began touring with artists such as Tracy Bird, Toby Keith, Patty Loveless and Tracy Lawrence.  By 1995 he released his first debut CD.

By the end of 1996 Rich had two songs that hit the top 40 charts.  He also had five videos.   His video “Hanging On” was voted as one of the top 100 videos of all time. 

In 2005 McCready moved to home base Joplin, Missouri and divided his time between there and Nashville.

During his music career, Rich achieved several lifelong goals, including playing with Merle Haggard in California, and meeting the Country And Western legends Waylon Jennings and Johnnie Cash.

Today McCready continues as a singer, songwriter and records his own music.    He is also active in working with other artists, producing their records and owns a Music Artist Consulting firm in hometown of Seneca, Missouri.  He is co-owner of McCready Recording Studio in Seneca, Missouri with his father, Doc McCready. 
Rich still tours heavily in Texas and California. 

Rich also enjoys family interests, one of which is watching oldest daughter Kirby play soccer at University of Texas.

Rich plays for the Celebrity City of Hope Softball Challenge with Nolan Ryan and Garth Brooks. 

“Music has opened so many doors for many incredible experiences and has allowed me to enjoy wonderful relationships and friendships and meet amazing people.  I feel that music should always be fun!”  Rich McCready