Frequently asked questions
Shining a light on giving more than we receive
Shine4U Records is a Portsmouth-based independent label and non-profit using music to raise awareness of mental health and suicide prevention. Founded in 2021 by singer, songwriter, MC and Advanced Nurse Practitioner Richard 'Ricky' Palmer, we live by one idea: shining a light by giving more than we receive.
This independent label is all about celebrating incredible music, creating unforgettable experiences, and raising vital awareness for mental health and suicide prevention. Operating as a dedicated non-profit currently seeking official CIC (Community Interest Company) status, the label is built entirely around championing community and supporting others.
At the heart of everything he does is a profound ethos: "Shining a light by giving more than we receive." He believes music loses its true magic if it is only used for profit, which is why he turns his creative output into a direct lifeline for the vulnerable and the frontline heroes who carry our society.
Bringing infectious energy whether recording in the studio, treating patients, or commanding the stage as an engaging host, Richard "Ricky" serves as a vibrant, one-man creative powerhouse.
To perfectly drive the label's signature sound, he has pioneered two brand-new subgenres: **Ricksteady** Blending the upbeat rhythms of Ska, reggae, and rocksteady with grassroots philanthropy.
**Rickabilly** A high-octane hybrid of infectious 1950s Rockabilly mixed with the catchy hooks of modern pop. Think raw, retro guitar twang, driving double-bass energy, and uplifting melodies that get you moving.
Whether dropping raw, honest tracks designed to navigate life's toughest struggles, bringing crowds together with professional live event hosting, or anchoring critical suicide prevention movements, Shine4U Records uses the healing power of music to shatter stigma, lift up vulnerable individuals, and prove that no one has to walk their path alone.
Check out our latest releases
The momentum is unstoppable!
And the next massive wave is already building!
Lock it in, because the highly anticipated next single, 😞Lonely this Christmas🎄 drops on 20/11/26. A Ricksteady Reggae reimagining of the 1970s classic by Mud.
Out now: 'Storm in My Heart'. Released on World Mental Health Day, 10 October 2026, this is a song for anyone fighting their way through a storm. Listen now.
🐻"Back from Hibernation"🐻, an original Ricksteady track. Out now across all platforms and tracking straight through the maze of mental health with raw, honest energy. Dropped 31/12/26. Supporting mental health awareness.
This follows the incredible footprint of the previous milestone release—a heartfelt, soulful Ricksteady rendition of the classic "You've Got a Friend", dropped globally via Horus Music for last year's World Mental Health Day 2025 to remind everyone they aren't alone.
This heartfelt rendition of the beloved classic, originally penned by Carole King and brought to life by James Taylor in the 1970s, is sure to resonate with listeners everywhere. Released on World Mental Health Day, October 10th 2025, by the Shine4U Record label and distributed globally by Horus Music, ‘You've Got a Friend’ by Richard 'Ricky' Palmer.
Whether unleashing powerhouse originals, reimagining timeless anthems, or commanding live festival stages, Shine4U Records uses the healing power of music to shatter stigma, lift up vulnerable individuals, and prove that no one has to walk their path alone.
Don't miss out on this uplifting musical experience!
