Sic Vikki, originally known as Sik Viki, was formed around 1985 in Philadelphia by founding members Joe Seabe, Mike Scalzo, Buddy Blanchard, and Steve Sinque. The band quickly gained popularity in the Philadelphia area. In 1987, both singer Buddy Blanchard and bassist Mike Scalzo departed to explore other opportunities. They were replaced by bassist Pat Shoemaker and vocalist Rich Cox.
After nearly a year of writing and rehearsing, the band resumed live performances and began recording at The Warehouse Studio in Philadelphia. During this period, with the support of Vince Salvia (known as Mouse), they met Nick Didia and started working at a studio in Mount Holly, New Jersey. Nash Cohen, the studio owner, expressed interest in managing the band, leading to the studio being affectionately dubbed “Nashville.” Shortly thereafter, drummer Steve Sinque left, and Steve Salter took his place.
Sic Vikki recorded several dozen songs with Nick Didia and began approaching record companies. Following a lack of interest from these labels, Nash Cohen brought in the renowned manager Bill Aucoin, who had previously managed Kiss, Billy Squier, and Billy Idol, and was experienced in crafting large production bands.
Under Aucoin's guidance, the band collaborated with songwriter and producer Steve Plunkett (of Autograph) to develop a new live show and image. Their sound evolved from raw hard rock to a more polished glam rock style. Bill Aucoin sought to infuse “more sex” into the music, image, and performances. Within months, the band added keyboardist Tony Annunziata and signed with Polystar Records, a Japanese division of Polygram. By late 1991, Joe Seabe had left, resulting in the absence of all original members. The band then recruited guitarist Bobby Enloe from the group Heaven.
By Spring 1992, Sic Vikki began recording their debut album, "Kiss Me In French," in Los Angeles. The recording sessions coincided with the LA riots following the Rodney King verdict, providing the band with memorable stories. Once completed with producer Steve Plunkett, the album was released in various European territories, leading to the band's first international tour across Europe. This period marked a significant achievement for the band, as they played to sold-out crowds in both the Philadelphia area and countries like Switzerland and Germany.
After the European tour, Rich Cox, along with drummer Steve Salter and keyboardist Tony Annunziata, formed a new project called Kissing Babies, enlisting longtime friend Eric Az on guitar and Joe Bello on bass. While continuing to perform with this new band, European labels requested another album from Sic Vikki. Rich Cox traveled to Los Angeles and recorded 11 demos with Steve Plunkett in just six days, laying the groundwork for Sic Vikki's second album, "Streetside Picasso." The revised lineup then recorded the album at Nashville studios and returned to the road as an updated version of Sic Vikki.
During its peak, Sic Vikki embodied the hair-metal and glam-band scene, characterized by extravagant outfits, sex appeal, and catchy power pop tunes. Reflecting on that era, the band members navigated various life challenges, including family, relationships, and personal struggles. Despite these tumultuous times, the band managed to endure and evolve, providing a period of significant growth and learning for its members.
KISS ME IN FRENCH (1993) lineup:
- Lead vocals & guitar: Richie Cox
- Drums: Steve Salter
- Lead guitar & background vocals: Bobby Enloe
- Bass guitar & background vocals: Pat Shoemaker
STREETSIDE PICASSO (1995) lineup:
- Lead vocals & guitar: Richie Cox
- Drums: Steve Salter
- Lead guitar: Eric Azvolinsky
- Bass guitar: Joe Bello
An honorable mention goes to former lead guitarist and background vocalist Joe Seabe, who continues to be a remarkable musician and songwriter.