A Beautiful End will be released across digital platforms, including iTunes, Napster, Rhapsody, AOL Music, as well as all mobile ring tone and video outlets. The collection of songs radiate a confidence and maturity that fans of J.R.'s music are certain to embrace. Recorded at the iconic former A&M studios (now known as Jim Henson Studios), Richards was joined by a who's who of musicians including legendary drummer Kenny Aronoff, lead guitarist Rusty Anderson (Paul McCartney), bass player Chris Chaney (Jane's Addiction), Phil X (Powder) and renowned engineer Steve Churchyard, (INXS). The project was mixed by Mike Ross at producer Sylvia Massy's Radiostar studios in Weed, California. A Beautiful End is a creation of intensely personal music that provides a great sense of connection and is certain to distinguish him as a rare, treasured artist.

Richards, who has continued to explore his art by composing scores for indie film projects, including the Ami Mann directed "Morning," in which he was also featured in a central role opposite Annabeth Gish and Tess Harper, has also guest starred on television series including "Charmed" and contributed singles to the soundtracks of blockbuster films and TV shows including "American Pie" "The Banger Sisters," "Smallville, " "NCIS," and "The Real OC".

J.R. will tour in support of A Beautiful End with select dates kicking off as follow:
May 28 Redondo Beach/Brixton South Bay
May 29 San Juan Capistrano/The Coach House
May 31 Solana Beach/The Belly Up Tavern
June 2 Sacramento/Marilyn's on K
June 3 San Francisco/Red Devil Lounge
June 5 Modesto/Fat Cats

with additional stops in cities including Seattle, Portland, Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, Reno, Phoenix, Tucson, Albuquerque, Denver and more to be announced shortly.

Richards will also embark on a Middle Eastern /European Military tour to support the troops including stops in Afghanistan, Iraq and Kuwait in the summer of 2009. The tour will be a "Storytellers" multi-media style experience that will give fans a look at the making of the "A Beautiful End" project as well as the Renaissance of Richard's career.

Richards is scheduled to shoot a music video for the single A Beautiful End, in late April, produced and directed by Chris Corrado (who served as 2nd assistant director on films including "Indiana Jones 4," "Eagle Eye" and "G.I. Joe"). The video, which will be shot on 35 MM, is set to debut in conjunction with the May 12 release.