Richard, better known as 'Popcorn' is one of the core group of four percussionists within AHANAIE. This standard bearer, a term that can be substituted in any language for 'True Kindred Spirit', began playing Caribbean indigenous drums (steel pan) from the age of eleven. His first drumming lessons took place on the street corners of his hometown St. James, in Trinidad, where every morning steel pan enthusiasts would gather to play. Introduced to the West African djembe, some fifteen odd years later, he has been playing both instruments side by side ever since.

Popcorn has studied Caribbean Indigenous and African techniques and rhythms with James Johnson (Oakland, California), Rudi 'Quammie' Williams (Toronto, Canada), Kurt 'Kjas' Syms (Trinidad and Tobago) and Hugh Humphrey (Toronto, Canada). He has been involved with the North York Board of Education; After School Enrichment Programme and performs with several dance companies, choirs, theatre companies and musical ensembles. He has contributed his considerable talents to the COBA Collective of Black Artists, Ballet Creole, Afro-Caribbean Dance Group and since 1986 he has been the principal drummer and musical director for the Scarborough Caribbean Youth dance Ensemble.

Popcorn is an integral part of AHANAIE bringing his sparkling stage presence and laid back cool demeanor to every performance. Notwithstanding his many involvements and commitments Popcorn always finds time to share his vast storehouse of knowledge with young people and anyone interested in learning the fundamentals of drumming.