On November 17, 2024 – Legendary drummer Liberty DeVitto presented a sold-out clinic at Rocky’s Music Studio in Rensselaer, NY. Liberty performed an over two-hour clinic covering numerous aspects of his studio and live performance career. Also featured, were student musicians from Rocky’s who did an exemplary job performing many of Billy Joel’s greatest hits. The talented musicians who accompanied Liberty DeVitto were: Jason Denham – (Bass Guitar), Jesse Graiff – (Guitar), Sam Ulmer – (Guitar). At the end of the clinic Liberty eagerly took numerous questions from the large crowd in attendance.

“Rocky, Bob Girouard, and I put on an “old-school” drum clinic with former Billy Joel drummer Liberty DeVitto that brought smiles and words of wisdom to the sold-out audience. I’ve seen Lib’s clinic at least thirty times over the years we’ve been friends, and he never disappoints!” - Billy Amendola

Liberty was Introduced to the crowd by noted drum journalist Bob Girouard.

Liberty DeVitto Introduction: “When it comes to Rock’s best, the term “legend” is often bandied about a bit too freely. However, when conversations occur among drummers as to the most influential rockers of the past five-decades, Liberty DeVitto’s name invariably stands near the top of the list.

The NYC (Brooklyn) native appeared on the scene in the mid-1970’s, scoring the gig with pop-icon Billy Joel. Liberty’s distinctive style is a combination of force coupled with finesse, power, and precision, featuring huge backbeats and expressive fills anchored by a massive kick drum sound. His infectious grooves can be heard on over 150 million records sold and 22 out of 23 of Joel’s Top 40 hits. His tasteful drumming dominates classic albums like: Turnstiles, The Stranger, 52nd Street, Glass Houses, Songs in the Attic, The Nylon Curtain, and An Innocent Man. After notching a 30-year stint with Joel, he has never looked back… Supporting such diverse artists as Meatloaf, Rick Wakeman, Carly Simon, Paul McCartney, Mick Jones, and the late Karen Carpenter. Also, as a precursor to today’s popular Podcasts, his series of 2008 video interviews titled "Conversations" (produced and coordinated by Billy Amendola), with Rascals, great, Dino Danelli, remain at the forefront, offering candid insights into each man’s spectacular career.

Liberty’s memoir, Liberty DeVitto: Life, Billy and the Pursuit of Happiness, details his beginnings on Long Island, from the garage-to-weddings, nightclubs and early tours; eventually ascending to the big-time and the challenges, perks and pitfalls that go with fame. If you are interested in learning about the highs and lows of the “Business” of music, this book is a must for your personal library. Liberty was also featured prominently in the 2016 music documentary, Hired Gun, which presents the stark realities of being a sideman in the music industry. Much like his book, his perspective sets the record straight as well as tugs at the heartstrings. Finally, if you want to experience live rock the way it’s meant to be played, I suggest checking out The Lords of 52nd St. which features Liberty along with fellow original Joel side men, Richie Cannata and Russell Javors. I might add that Liberty’s giving back…helping others via these 2 charities: Music Will: (formerly Little Kids Rock)

For more than two decades, this non-profit has provided access to music education and instruments to over a million students who might not have otherwise had access in their schools. Raven Drum Foundation: Serves, educates, and empowers trauma survivors and communities in crisis, with a focus on Veterans and First Responders. Liberty’s appearance today is sponsored by: Liberty drums, Sabian Cymbals, Pro Mark drumsticks, and Evans drum heads.

Speaking of drumming, …we happen to have an honest-to-goodness legend in our midst today. Ladies and Gentlemen…here, live and in-person…Rocky's Music is proud to present… Liberty DeVitto!”

“We want to thank legendary drummer Liberty DeVitto for an amazing drum clinic this past Sunday! Liberty's stories and insights to his life as a successful drummer with one of Rock music's biggest acts on the planet, had the sold out crowd mesmerized and entertained. And Liberty's powerful drumming showed us all why he is still an incredible force in rock music! The event was capped off with some of our students joining Liberty with a rockin' performance of "You May Be Right" (with our very own Mr Bonville handling the vocal duties). Huge thanks to Bob Girouard and Billy Amendola for helping coordinate the event, and special thanks to Liberty’s sponsors – Sabian Cymbals, Evans Drumheads, ProMark Sticks, and Liberty Drums for their support. The feedback has been off the charts with everybody asking – When is Liberty coming back ?” - Rocky Petrocelli

Photo – Liberty DeVitto - Three

Quotes:

“Liberty entertained, informed, and educated a a full capacity crowd recently at Rocky’s Music Studio. Still a true master of his craft.” - Larry Levine, Educator and four time Grammy/Recording Academy commendation recipient.

Liberty DeVitto... Intensity, power and precision. Liberty is a TRUE drumming hall of famer... Without question, one of the very best drum clinic's I've had the pleasure of attending. -Bob Girouard- Drum Journalist

“To sit in a room with a musician that has played on so many iconic songs and with one of the most prolific songwriters of the modern era made me feel like a ‘BIG SHOT’. - Bobby Angiletta, drummer

“Liberty’s clinic was a lesson in learning how to be an unselfish musician. None of that, “look at me, and all these cool licks I can play”, but finding the perfect creative pattern and accompaniment to Billy Joel’s compositions. Liberty would take into consideration Billy’s lyrics for each song, not just the instrumental portions." - Mark Galeo… musician (drummer & pianist), composer, arranger

“Liberty is the real deal! He always gets a great sound in the room, especially his left hand on the snare drum backbeats. When you hear it live, up close, and in person you immediately know why he’s on so many hit records. I especially liked the new material he played to. All new original rock songs - that were very catchy”. - Pete Sweeney

“I’ll tell you Bob Girouard - I had a blast… Everyone was so receptive and respectful. Everyone that worked with you and Rocky were the best! You guys have a great drum shop. And I felt the love and respect the folks have for you guys. I will let you know when my band is playing in the area.” Hope to see you soon, Liberty DeVitto

Rocky’s Original Press Release :

“We are excited to announce that on Sunday, November 17th, legendary drummer, Liberty DeVitto (Billy Joel, Paul McCartney, Elton John and many others) will be at the studio for an afternoon of great stories from the road, drumming demonstrations and a performance with Liberty and students from Rocky's Music Studio.” - Rocky Petrocelli