Rick Dufay

Born on 19 February 1952 in Paris, France, Richard Marc Dufay established himself early as a guitarist and songwriter through steady appearances along the New York club circuit. There he worked alongside assorted bar bands while also delivering solo sets that gradually drew attention. That grassroots buzz secured a deal with Polydor Records in 1980, resulting in the studio-recorded album Tender Loving Abuse, shaped under producer Jack Douglas. Critics responded favorably, especially those writing for musicians’ publications, and the positive notices strengthened Dufay’s standing for technical guitar prowess. The exposure prompted Aerosmith to bring him into the lineup later the same year. He appeared on their 1982 release Rock In A Hard Place, yet departed in 1984 once Brad Whitford rejoined the group. Subsequent work has included the band Blue By Nature.