If you’ve ever strolled past the Rogers Centre during a Toronto Blue Jays home game, chances are you’ve encountered Rick Donaldson, also known as ‘Rockin’ Rick’. Wearing a Blue Jays jersey and rhythmically playing his drum set, he has been a familiar sight outside the stadium since he began busking in 1989. After 36 years, Donaldson has announced his retirement from busking at the end of this season.
“I recall kids attending games who are now bringing their own children to the ballpark,” he shared in an interview with CBC News. “It’s quite overwhelming at times.”
Donaldson mentioned that spending more time with his grandchildren was another significant factor in his decision. “I really want to enjoy more moments with my grandkids, taking them to games and such,” he expressed.
For many fans, Donaldson’s drumming has become synonymous with the Blue Jays experience, akin to hotdogs and post-game traffic. “I’ve been a fan of Rick for as long as I can remember. I first saw him when I was 15,” said Laurie Wulfand. “My son, now 21, has grown up with Rick watching him… we were definitely emotional when we heard about his retirement.”
Avid Blue Jays supporter Michelle Beer described Donaldson as a “cherished fixture” within the baseball community. “He is an integral part of the ball game experience,” she remarked, suggesting that the city should consider honoring him with a statue or photograph at the stadium. “They could display some historical images with a small plaque. His contributions should be permanently recognized at the spot where he entertained fans for all those years.”
Despite his popularity in 2025, Donaldson almost faced an early end to his presence at Blue Jays home games. He recounted that during his initial attempt to perform outside the then-Skydome years ago, he and saxophonist Dougie Richardson were asked to leave the premises.
Fortunately, on their second try, George Holm, the Jays’ ticketing manager at that time, noticed the musical duo and allowed them to stay. “The right person saw us… he understood the significance of our performance to Skydome and the baseball ambiance,” Donaldson recalled.
This fortuitous encounter not only allowed Donaldson to continue entertaining fans but also led to interactions with baseball legends. He had the chance to meet Hank Aaron and Ferguson “Fergie” Jenkins, two MLB record holders, attributing it to their children being fans of his performances. Additionally, he received cymbals as a gift from a representative of Zildjian, a music equipment company.
Excitement is mounting for the Blue Jays following their 8-2 victory over the Seattle Mariners in Game 4 of the American League Championship Series (ALCS), tying the series at two games each.
With Game 5 taking place in Seattle on Friday, there will be at least one more home game in Toronto, providing fans with another opportunity to witness Donaldson’s final performance outside the Rogers Centre.
Game 6 of the ALCS is scheduled for Sunday at 8:03 p.m. at Rogers Centre, with a potential Game 7 set for Monday at 8:08 p.m.
Although his time outside Rogers Centre is drawing to a close, Donaldson has no intentions of quitting professional drumming anytime soon, currently collaborating with Juno Award-winning blues artist Jack de Keyzer.
