Liberty DeVitto – An Xperience Interview

(photo by R Shanahan)

Interview by OP Callaghan.

Liberty DeVitto is a phenomenal drummer, best known for his work as the drummer for Billy Joel.  But as a session drummer, Liberty has played with a ton of other artists, including Elton John, Paul McCartney, and his current band, The Slim Kings.  He’s a monster of a player, and will be appearing in a drum clinic on October 3rd at Rocky’s Music Studio in Latham.  He will be appearing with Corky Laing, drummer extraordinaire from the band Mountain, coming together to BEAT Parkinson’s disease.  All proceeds will benefit Parkinson’s Center YMCA in honor of Bob Girouard.

So please welcome Liberty DeVitto!

RRX: How did you get your start?

LD: I saw the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan show, and I knew that’s what I wanted to do – tour the world with my friends and make music everyone loves. 

RRX: Did you take lessons?

LD: No, at the time no one would teach me how to play R&R. They were jazz snobs and thought R&R was horrible.

RRX: Was there one song or performer that made you want to play drums?

LD: Ringo Starr! Then there was Dino Danelli from the Young Rascals!

RRX: You’ve had an astoundingly successful career as a drummer.  Is there a certain song, performance,  or recording that you’re especially proud of?

LD: That’s a tough question. I made 11 albums with Billy Joel. To pick one is impossible. 

RRX:  Yeah, that’s impressive! Who are you playing with now?

LD: I play with many people. My main band to perform with is The Lords of 52nd Street. It’s myself, Richie Cannata, and Russell Javors. We are members of the original Billy Joel band. We perform all the songs we recorded with Billy. 

RRX: That’s quite a catalog!  What can we expect at your upcoming clinic? 

LD: Corky Laing and I will speak about our careers with both Billy and Mountain, along with taking questions and just having a great time, whether you’re a drummer or not. 

RRX:  I can’t wait!