"If you've ever walked by the Rogers Centre during a Toronto Blue Jays home game, chances are you've seen or at least heard Rick Donaldson. Sporting a Blue Jays jersey and always tapping out a tune on his drum set, Rockin' Rick' has been a fixture outside the ballpark since he first started busking in 1989. Now, after 36 years, he's announced that he's hanging up his sticks and retiring from busking after this season."
"I remember kids coming to games, who are now bringing their kids to games, he told CBC News in an interview. It's overwhelming sometimes. Donaldson said his own family factored into his decision, too. I also really want to spend more time with my grandkids, taking them to games and such," he said. For some fans, Donaldson's drum beats are as quintessential to the Blue Jays experience as hotdogs and traffic while trying to get home from a game."
Rick Donaldson, known as 'Rockin' Rick,' has busked outside the Rogers Centre since 1989 and will retire after this season following 36 years. He performed in a Blue Jays jersey, tapping out drum rhythms that became a familiar part of the game-day atmosphere for multiple generations. Family considerations and a desire to spend more time with grandchildren influenced the decision to step back. Fans responded emotionally, noting his presence as an essential element of attending games, and some have suggested permanent recognition such as a statue, photos, or a plaque near his longtime spot.
Read at www.cbc.ca
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