His romantic relationship with singer
Toni Childs formed the basis for her critically acclaimed debut album, Union, which Ricketts co-wrote and produced. Union was nominated for several Grammy Awards.
He collaborated with
Sheryl Crow on her debut Tuesday Night Music Club and is credited on the songs "Leaving Las Vegas" and "Strong Enough". Guitarist and songwriter
Robbie Robertson tapped Ricketts to collaborate on Storyville, Robertson's second solo album.
He also produced and performed on Meredith Brooks' 1997 album, Blurring the Edges, which contained her hit
"Bitch".
Ricketts won an Emmy for the song co-written with Eddie Free and
Toni Childs, "Because You're Beautiful".