Dive into the compelling and tragic story of Joey Molland and his legendary band, Badfinger, in this must-listen episode.

Packed with exclusive insights into the history of one of the most beloved bands of the '60s and '70s, this is your ultimate guide to understanding the highs and lows of Badfinger's incredible journey.

Perfect for music lovers, Baby Boomers, Beatles fans, and anyone with a passion for classic hits from the golden era of British pop music, this episode captures the essence of a band that remains iconic to this day.

Who Was Joey Molland and Why Was Badfinger So Special?

Joey Molland, an exceptional guitarist, singer, and songwriter, joined Badfinger at the height of their success and played a pivotal role in shaping the band’s timeless sound. Hailing from Liverpool, the same city that gave the world The Beatles, Molland brought a unique energy and creativity to Badfinger, solidifying their place in music history. Badfinger was one of the first bands signed to The Beatles’ Apple Records, a fact that forever intertwined their legacy with the Fab Four. Songs like "Come and Get It," "Day After Day," and "No Matter What" became anthems of their time.

The Badfinger-Beatles Connection

Badfinger’s rise to fame owes much to their connection with The Beatles. Handpicked by Paul McCartney , their first major hit, "Come and Get It," was written and produced by McCartney himself. George Harrison and Todd Rundgren also contributed to the production of some of their most memorable albums. Fans of The Beatles will find a treasure trove of stories and insights here as we delve into how Badfinger became the torchbearers of the British Invasion’s next wave.

The Tragic Side of Success

Despite their immense talent and commercial success, Badfinger’s story is one of heartbreak and tragedy. We explore the darker side of their meteoric rise, including the mismanagement and financial woes that plagued the band. From their tumultuous relationship with their manager to the devastating losses of band members Pete Ham and Tom Evans, we uncover the heartbreaking events that turned Badfinger’s dream into a nightmare.

Badfinger’s Timeless Legacy

Badfinger’s music continues to resonate with audiences around the world. Their influence can be heard in countless bands and artists who followed in their footsteps. Tracks like "Baby Blue," used in the finale of Breaking Bad, have introduced new generations to their work.

Joey Molland remains a custodian of Badfinger’s legacy. For Baby Boomers who grew up with their music, and for younger fans discovering their brilliance, their story is a testament to the enduring power of great songwriting.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

Joey Molland’s early years in Liverpool and his path to joining Badfinger.

The group's formation and early struggles

Behind-the-scenes stories working with Paul McCartney and George Harrison.

The creation of iconic albums and their chart-topping hits.

The band’s challenges with management and the financial troubles that led to their downfall.

The tragic losses of Pete Ham and Tom Evans and how their deaths impacted the music world.

Joey Molland’s role in preserving Badfinger’s legacy and his continued contributions to music.

Why This Episode Is a Must-Listen

If you’re a fan of sixties and seventies music, this episode is a goldmine of information and nostalgia. Whether you’re a longtime admirer of Badfinger or discovering them for the first time, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for their artistry and resilience. Music lovers, Beatles fans, and aficionados of British pop music will find themselves captivated by the stories, music, and legacy of Joey Molland and Badfinger.

Engage with Us:

We want to hear from you! Share your thoughts, favourite Badfinger memories, and how their music has impacted your life. Join the conversation and connect with fellow fans by leaving comments and reviews. Subscribe to the podcast and share this episode with friends.

Ever wondered what happened to Gary Puckett? What songs he wrote or if he's still singing? Tune in now to find out!

Gary Puckett and the Union Gap carved their niche in the golden era of sixties and seventies music with a unique blend of heartfelt ballads, powerful vocals, and their iconic Civil War-style uniforms.

This episode takes a deep dive into the remarkable journey of Gary Puckett—from his early days as a budding musician, through the meteoric rise of The Union Gap, to his enduring legacy as a performer beloved by baby boomers and music lovers alike.

Packed with fascinating insights, classic hit stories, and a rich narrative, this episode is a must-listen for fans of sixties and seventies music.

Before becoming a household name, Gary grew up in Minnesota, and later San Diego, California. With a natural affinity for music, he began honing his craft in local bands, blending rock, pop, and folk influences that would later define his signature sound.

We Gary’s formative years, detailing how his early experiences laid the foundation for his future success with The Union Gap.

In 1967, Gary formed The Union Gap, a band that would set itself apart not just musically but visually. Donning Civil War-style uniforms, the group created a memorable image that complemented their emotionally charged songs. Their unique branding strategy quickly caught the attention of music executives, leading to a record deal.

Gary details the strategic brilliance behind their image and how it contributed to their rapid rise in the competitive music scene of the late sixties.

The band became a sensation with a string of unforgettable hits that captured the hearts of listeners worldwide. From the soulful “Woman, Woman” to the tender “Young Girl,” their songs resonated deeply with themes of love and longing. “Lady Willpower” and “Over You” further cemented their status as one of the era’s top acts.

Gary delves into the stories behind the timeless classics, exploring their lyrical depth, musical composition, and the emotions they continue to evoke in audiences today.

During their peak, the band achieved international acclaim, touring extensively and appearing on major tv shows. Their music transcended borders, becoming beloved by fans across Europe, Asia, and beyond.

Despite their phenomenal success, the band faced challenges as the music industry evolved in the early seventies. Shifts in public taste, internal pressures, and the rise of new musical genres led to the group’s eventual disbandment.

After The Union Gap, Gary embarked on a solo career, continuing to captivate audiences with his powerful voice and stage presence. From recording new music to performing at nostalgia-driven events, he maintained his connection with fans who cherished the sounds of the era. Gary’s enduring dedication to his craft, his contributions to the music industry, and his ability to reinvent himself while honouring his rich musical legacy are all examined.

Decades after their debut, the music of Gary Puckett and the Union Gap remains relevant, cherished by baby boomers and younger generations discovering their timeless appeal. Their songs are staples on oldies playlists, radio stations, and streaming platforms, ensuring that their legacy lives on. The music is simply timeless.

• Explore Gary Puckett’s early life and the formation of The Union Gap.

• Discover the stories behind chart-topping hits like “Young Girl,” “Lady Willpower,” and “Woman, Woman.”

• Learn about the band’s global impact and their place in sixties and seventies music history.

• Dive into Gary Puckett’s solo career and his enduring influence on music lovers of all ages.

Subscribe to our channel for more in-depth explorations of music legends, classic hits, and the stories behind the songs that defined a generation.

Best remembered for their ubiquitous 1977 pop hit "Smoke from a Distant Fire," blue-eyed soul duo Sanford & Townsend paved the way for the yacht rock phenomena of today.

Johnny Townsend's musical journey is a remarkable tale of perseverance, talent, and timeless appeal. Renowned for his soulful vocals and songwriting expertise, Townsend etched his name in music history through his partnership with Ed Sanford in the Sanford-Townsend Band.

Together, the pair crafted hits that became staples of the "soundtrack to our lives," resonating deeply with baby boomers, yacht rock aficionados, and classic hit enthusiasts.

Hailing from Tuscaloosa, Alabama, John Townsend was immersed in music from an early age. Influenced by the Southern rock and soul traditions of his youth, Townsend developed a unique sound that blended heartfelt emotion with a sophisticated, polished delivery. His early career saw him perform with local bands, honing his craft and building a reputation as a gifted vocalist and keyboardist.

The defining chapter of John’s career began when he joined forces with Ed. Their synergy as songwriters and performers culminated in the 1977 hit Smoke from a Distant Fire.

This track, with its infectious melody, smooth harmonies, and emotionally charged lyrics, captured the essence of yacht rock—a genre known for its breezy sophistication and impeccable musicianship. The song rocketed up the Billboard charts, earning a coveted spot in the Top 10 and cementing the duo's place in the annals of classic rock history.

While Smoke from a Distant Fire became their signature song, the Sanford-Townsend Band's catalogue offered much more.

Their music embodied the spirit of an era defined by artistic ambition and a commitment to craft, seamlessly blending elements of rock, soul, and pop. For baby boomers who grew up with radio as their constant companion, John’s music provided a soundtrack to pivotal moments in their lives.

In the years following their breakout success, John continued to pursue his passion for music, working with a variety of artists and exploring new creative directions. He collaborated with notable names in the industry, contributing his signature sound to projects that spanned genres. His dedication to authenticity and emotional resonance ensured his place as a beloved figure in the yacht rock and classic hits community.

In recent years, Sanford and Townsend have revisited their musical partnership. They have been working on remastering some of their early recordings, including original versions of songs from their albums before forming the Sanford-Townsend Band, as well as unreleased tracks from their time together. This initiative aims to reintroduce their music to both longtime fans and new audiences.

Additionally, Ed Sanford has been involved in live performances. He and Townsend have been collaborating on new projects, delighting audiences with their enduring musical chemistry. Their ongoing work reflects a commitment to their craft and a desire to keep their musical legacy alive.

Today, both Ed Sanford and Johnny Townsend's contributions to music are celebrated by fans who cherish the golden era of smooth rock.

Their work serves as a bridge between the past and present, reminding listeners of a time when melody, harmony, and storytelling reigned supreme.

For baby boomers, yacht rock lovers, and all those who value the enduring power of great music, John and Ed's legacy is a beacon of nostalgia and excellence.

Whether revisiting the chart-topping Smoke from a Distant Fire or diving into the broader body of work he helped create, Johnny Townsend certainly remains a vital part of the musical tapestry that continues to inspire and uplift generations.

John joins us today in conversation to share his unique story from one hit wonder to rock legend.

Ever wondered what Rick Wakeman is best known for? What David Bowie songs he played on? Or what he's up to today? Tune in now to find out answers to these questions and lots more ....

Rick Wakeman is a pioneering English keyboardist, composer, and producer celebrated for his virtuosity and innovation in progressive rock and beyond.

Born in London, Rick showed prodigious talent from an early age, studying piano and honing his craft at the Royal College of Music. His career began as a sought-after session musician, working with icons like David Bowie—creating the unforgettable piano part for "Life on Mars?"—and Cat Stevens, where his contributions to hits like "Morning Has Broken" showcased his melodic brilliance.

In 1971, Rick joined the progressive rock band Yes, bringing a new dimension to their sound with his mastery of keyboards and synthesizers. His work on albums like Fragile, Close to the Edge, and the ambitious Tales from Topographic Oceans are heralded as some of the finest in the genre.

His use of cutting-edge equipment and his larger-than-life stage persona, often featuring capes and elaborate setups, became trademarks of the band’s success during the '70s.

Parallel to his tenure with Yes, Rick launched a groundbreaking solo career. His debut album, The Six Wives of Henry VIII, was a daring instrumental concept piece blending rock, classical, and historical themes. This was followed by Journey to the Centre of the Earth, a symphonic rock masterpiece recorded with a full orchestra and choir, and The Myths and Legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, which featured lavish live performances on ice.

Rick’s career has been marked by constant reinvention. After leaving and rejoining Yes multiple times, he expanded his repertoire with a diverse array of solo projects, film and TV scores, and collaborations with artists like Black Sabbath, Lou Reed, and Elton John. His music transcends genres, blending rock, classical, jazz, and even comedic elements, reflecting his eclectic influences and creative restlessness.

Beyond music, Rick has become a beloved figure in the entertainment world, known for his sharp wit and engaging personality. He has appeared on television shows, hosted radio programs, and written books, further endearing himself to fans worldwide.

Despite health challenges, including heart issues and a diabetes diagnosis, Wakeman remains an active performer, continuing to tour and record new material.

Rick Wakeman’s contributions to music are vast and enduring, influencing countless musicians and redefining what keyboards can achieve in rock. From his seminal work with Yes to his genre-defying solo projects, Wakeman’s career is a testament to innovation, passion, and the boundless possibilities of music.

Discover who wrote most of the Rascals songs. Find out what ex lead singer and founder Felix Cavaliere is doing now and learn all about one of the greatest bands of the '60s.

Felix Cavaliere is a celebrated musician, songwriter, and vocalist, widely regarded as a pioneer of blue-eyed soul.

Born in Pelham, New York, Cavaliere was introduced to music at an early age, taking classical piano lessons under his mother’s encouragement. While initially drawn to classical music, he soon discovered his passion for rhythm and blues, inspired by legends like Ray Charles and Marvin Gaye.

Cavaliere pursued pre-med studies at Syracuse University but found himself increasingly immersed in music, forming his first band, The Escorts, while still in college. His decision to follow his musical aspirations led him to New York City's thriving music scene in the early 1960s.

In 1965, Cavaliere co-founded The Rascals (originally called The Young Rascals) with Eddie Brigati, Gene Cornish, and Dino Danelli. The group became synonymous with the era's evolving rock and soul movement, producing a string of iconic hits that combined soulful melodies with socially conscious lyrics.

Cavaliere's distinctive voice and masterful Hammond organ playing defined hits like "Good Lovin'," which topped the charts in 1966, followed by enduring classics like "Groovin'," "A Beautiful Morning," and "People Got to Be Free." The latter, inspired by the civil rights movement, became an anthem for unity and social justice.

As the principal songwriter for The Rascals, Felix played a crucial role in shaping the band's innovative sound, which bridged the gap between rock and R&B. The Rascals enjoyed commercial success, releasing six gold albums and earning a devoted following. However, internal tensions and changing musical landscapes led to the band's breakup in the early 1970s.

After The Rascals disbanded, Cavaliere embarked on a solo career, releasing several albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s.

His solo work, including tracks like "Only a Lonely Heart Sees," reflected his evolving artistry, blending soulful ballads with pop-rock influences. Felix also collaborated with numerous artists, including Todd Rundgren and Steve Cropper, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile and respected musician.

In 1997, Cavaliere and his fellow Rascals were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, cementing their place in music history.

The band reunited in 2013 for a critically acclaimed multimedia concert series, Once Upon a Dream, produced by Steven Van Zandt. The reunion celebrated their groundbreaking legacy and brought their music to a new generation of fans.

Beyond his achievements with The Rascals, Cavaliere remains an active performer and advocate for music education. He continues to tour, sharing his timeless songs with audiences worldwide. Cavaliere's influence on rock and soul endures, with his groundbreaking contributions inspiring countless artists and fans.

Today Felix Cavaliere calls Nashville home base, where he is constantly collaborating and writing new material. He’s also finishing his memoir and has an active tour schedule with Felix Cavaliere's Rascals.

To learn more about Felix and his music, head for his website

To request a guest to be interviewed on the show, head to my website and send me a message.

A show that delves into the musical and personal lives of the greatest hitmakers of the '60s, '70s, and '80s, uncovering the stories and inspirations that shaped some of the most unforgettable tunes of our generation.

Join host Sandy Kaye for this intimate multi award-winning, music interview podcast that celebrates the timeless songs we grew up with and the legendary artists behind them.

Relive the soundtrack of your youth, uncover secrets, recall cherished memories, and immerse yourself in their lives, their stories and their music.

This is an honest, fresh insight into some or rock's most iconic musicians that have defined generations.

From Daddy Cool to Mondo Rock and as a solo artist with no less than 26 ARIA Top 40 hits to his credit as a singer, songwriter and producer, ROSS WILSON is one of Australia’s most awarded, respected and well-known artists.

From the legendary band Daddy Cool whose number one anthem Eagle Rock and debut album “Daddy Who?” smashed all previous sales records in Australia an astounding 50 years ago in 1971, to the 1977 formation of Mondo Rock, delivering 80’s hits ‘Cool World’, ‘State of The Heart’, ‘Chemistry’, ‘No Time’, and ‘Come Said The Boy’ and into the 21st century as a solo performer, Ross has never been out of the limelight.

In fact, Ross Wilson is probably the only person in Australian rock music who can’t make a comeback simply because he’s never been away. With a career that spans well over 50 years, Ross remains one of this country’s most respected and most beloved artists. From Daddy Cool to Mondo Rock, as a solo artist, a songwriter or producer of the legendary Skyhooks and Jo Jo Zep, Ross’s success has continued unabated.

He fronted Daddy Cool and exploded out of the '70s playing rootsy '50s sounds. He then formed Mondo Rock who surfed the contemporary scene with chart topping singles & albums from the mid '70s to the late '80s.

As a solo performer and major songwriter he continued to achieve success and make his mark during the '90s & beyond with many of his songs being recorded by artists as diverse as Jimmy Barnes, John Farnham, Troy Cassar-Daley, Keke (Spain), Renee Geyer, Christine Anu, Duane Jarvis (US), Elkie Brooks (UK) even The Wiggles!

His latest release in 2023, an EP called 'She’s Stuck On Facebook All The Time' is a modern day tragicomedy in the blues genre.

Ross Wilson joins us this week to fill us in on the entirety of his musical career. He's had an amazing ride and is as entertaining in interview as he is on stage. A must listen.

To learn more about Ross Wilson head for his website www.rosswilson.com.au

If you'd like to get in touch with me with a comment, feedback or a suggestion for a future guest for the show, please feel free to contact me through my website www.abreathofreshair.com.au

I hope you enjoy this week's episode.

Anyone who knows The Go-Go's knows they got the beat.

But in the recent television documentary about them, fans also learn the true story of how they got it, lost it, and found it again. The film shows where The Go-Gos are today: making new music together for the first time in 20 something years.

We catch up with drummer, Gina Schock and listen, mesmerized as she tells her incredible story.

Gina Schock, born Regina Ann Schock in Baltimore, Maryland, is celebrated as the powerhouse drummer of The Go-Go's, one of the most influential all-female rock bands in history.

Raised in a working-class neighbourhood, Gina discovered her passion for drumming as a teenager, teaching herself the craft and dreaming of a life in music. Her ambition led her to move to Los Angeles in the late 1970s, where she joined The Go-Go’s in 1979, just as the band began making waves in the punk scene.

The Go-Go’s were pioneers, becoming the first all-women band to achieve mainstream success while writing their own music and playing their own instruments.

Gina’s hard-hitting, high-energy drumming became a key element of the band’s signature sound, driving hits like We Got the Beat, Vacation, and Our Lips Are Sealed. The band’s debut album, Beauty and the Beat (1981), topped the Billboard 200 for six weeks, establishing The Go-Go’s as trailblazers in both pop and rock music.

Despite their success, the band faced challenges, including grueling tours and internal tensions, leading to their initial breakup in 1985. During this time, Gina underwent heart surgery for a congenital defect, a personal challenge that underscored her resilience.

Post-Go-Go’s, she pursued songwriting and producing, contributing to projects for stars like Miley Cyrus (Breakout) and Selena Gomez. She also ventured into acting and photography, showcasing her multifaceted creativity.

The Go-Go’s reunited several times over the years, maintaining their legacy through tours, new music, and a Broadway musical, Head Over Heels, which featured their songs.

Their enduring influence was cemented when they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2021, a milestone highlighting their groundbreaking achievements.

Beyond music, Gina is also known for her vivacious personality, humour, and advocacy for women in the arts. She remains an inspiring figure, balancing her love for music with personal passions like photography and sharing her life story to empower future generations of musicians.

Gina Schock joins us this week to provide an insight into her amazing world. If you'd like to know what songs she wrote, how she got her start, what life has been like for her over the years ... then you've come to the right place.

I'm certain you'll enjoy hearing Gina Schock tell her story.

Iva Davies was born and raised in regional Australia, where his early exposure to music set the stage for his remarkable career. Trained as a classical musician, he excelled as an oboist. However, the allure of rock music and the emerging punk and new wave scenes in the 70s inspired him to shift gears.

Influenced by artists like David Bowie, Roxy Music, and Brian Eno, Iva began exploring electronic and experimental sounds, which would later define Icehouse’s unique style.

In 1977, Davies formed Flowers with bassist Keith Welsh, marking the beginning of a significant chapter in Australian music. Originally a covers band, Flowers soon began incorporating original material. Their raw energy and Iva’s charismatic stage presence quickly made them a favourite in Sydney’s pub rock circuit.

The release of their debut album, Icehouse, in 1980, was a game-changer. Featuring tracks like "We Can Get Together" and "Can't Help Myself," the album showcased a blend of new wave, punk, and synth-driven rock. Its success led to an international record deal but a legal conflict over the name Flowers prompted the band to rebrand as Icehouse.

As Icehouse, the group became a vehicle for Iva’s creative vision. Their 1982 album, Primitive Man, marked a major turning point. The album included the upbeat "Great Southern Land," a song that became an unofficial Australian anthem.

The next album, Sidewalk (1984), showcased Davies’ maturing songwriting and reflected his growing interest in themes of isolation and urban life. Though less commercially successful than its predecessor, it set the stage for the band’s magnum opus, Man of Colours (1987).

Man of Colours was Icehouse's most commercially successful album, cementing their place as global stars. Tracks like "Electric Blue," co-written with John Oates of Hall & Oates dominated international charts. The album resonated with fans worldwide. In Australia, Man of Colours became the highest-selling album of 1987 and earned multiple ARIA Awards, including Album of the Year.

Iva's passion for technology and experimentation was evident throughout Icehouse's career. He embraced cutting-edge digital synthesizers and recording techniques, creating a sound that was both innovative and timeless. In addition to his work with Icehouse, Iva composed scores for films like Razorback (1984) and collaborated with the Sydney Dance Company on Boxes (1985) and Berlin (1995), blending classical and modern musical elements.

Despite lineup changes and shifts in the music industry, Icehouse remained a beloved act. In the 1990s, the band released Code Blue (1990) and Big Wheel (1993), which explored deeper and more personal themes. Although these albums didn’t match the commercial heights of earlier works, they reinforced Davies’ reputation as a versatile and introspective artist.

By the 2000s, Icehouse focused on live performances, reconnecting with fans through nostalgia-fueled tours. Davies also reworked classic tracks for the 2011 album Icehouse: White Heat 30 Hits, which celebrated the band’s enduring legacy.

Iva Davies and Icehouse have left an indelible mark on Australian music and beyond. Great Southern Land is regularly cited as one of Australia’s greatest songs, and Icehouse’s albums continue to influence generations of musicians. Davies’ fusion of classical training, electronic innovation, and rock sensibility has made him one of Australia’s most iconic and enduring musical talents.

Today Icehouse remains active, with Iva at the helm, performing to loyal audiences and to new fans. The band are celebrated as pioneers of Australian music and continue to bridge the gap between the past and the future of rock and electronic sounds.

Catch Icehouse when they headline the RED HOT SUMMER TOUR starting January 2025. Supported by several other notable Australian bands in Noiseworks, Wolfmother, Eskimo Joe, Baby Aniamls, Killing Heidi and Bachelor Girl - this is sure to be an incredible outdoor music festival.

Mike Brewer, who partnered with Tom Shipley in the folk-rock duo Brewer & Shipley beginning in the late ’60s - best known for their 1971 hit single, “One Toke Over the Line,” has died.

The news of his passing at age 80 at his home in Missouri, was announced by Shipley. The latter had visited “my friend of 65 years and musical partner for over 60” three days earlier at a hospital in Branson.

By the mid-’60s, Brewer had relocated to Los Angeles and formed a band with Tom Mastin, Billy Mundi (later of the Mothers of Invention) and Jim Fielder (who became an original member of Blood, Sweat and Tears).

When Brewer became a staff song writer for A&M Records’ music publishing company, he reunited with Shipley and they began writing songs together. The pair recorded a debut album for A&M but ultimately moved back to the midwest, settling in Kansas City, Missouri.

Mike Brewer was born in 1944, in Oklahoma City, Okla. While in high school, he played in a rock ‘n’ roll band with Jesse Ed Davis, a native American who went on to perform with such stars as Taj Mahal, Eric Clapton and John Lennon, among many others. After graduating, he traveled the folk circuit performing in coffee houses. Though he met Shipley in 1964, they didn’t become musical partners until 1968.

They were soon signed to Kama Sutra Records in New York and their second album for the label, 1970’s Tarkio, featured “One Toke Over the Line,” written a few years earlier, as its lead-off track.

During this interview Mike Brewer tells us all about his life and that famous track.

Liberty DeVitto has long been recognised as one of the most influential drummers in rock history, renowned for his explosive energy, innovative rhythms, and deep connection to the music.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, he was captivated by drumming at an early age, inspired by legends like Ringo Starr, Dino Danelli, and Keith Moon.

Raised in a vibrant, music-loving family, DeVitto honed his craft by playing along to records and developing his signature style—a mix of finesse, power, and an uncanny ability to elevate a song's emotional impact.

DeVitto's career reached new heights when he joined Billy Joel's band in 1974, a partnership that spanned over three decades.

As Joel’s drummer, DeVitto was the driving force behind countless hits, including "Piano Man," "Scenes from an Italian Restaurant," and "My Life." His intuitive understanding of Joel’s songwriting allowed him to craft drum parts that became as iconic as the melodies themselves.

Albums like The Stranger, 52nd Street, and Glass Houses showcased his ability to balance technical brilliance with raw emotion, solidifying his place in music history.

Beyond Billy Joel, DeVitto has collaborated with a wide range of iconic artists, including Paul McCartney, Stevie Nicks, Carly Simon, and Karen Carpenter, displaying his versatility and adaptability across genres. He has also performed on numerous studio sessions, further contributing to his impressive discography.

In addition to his illustrious career as a sideman, DeVitto formed The Slim Kings, a band that combines classic rock influences with a fresh, modern sound. The Slim Kings have released several critically acclaimed tracks, earning a loyal following for their authentic and energetic performances. He also has The Lords of 52nd St which is the original band behind Billy Joel - a band that has sold more than 150 million records and helped establish Billy Joel’s formidable sound.

In recent years, DeVitto has shared his incredible journey through his memoir, Liberty: Life, Billy, and the Pursuit of Happiness. The book provides an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at his life on and off the stage, detailing his childhood in Brooklyn, his experiences with Billy Joel, and his personal struggles and triumphs. It’s a testament to his resilience and passion for music.

DeVitto continues to be an active presence in the music industry, performing live, recording new music, and mentoring aspiring musicians.

His latest project is recording with Studio D’Lux - a supergroup led by keyboardist-vocalist Doug Kistner (Trans-Siberian Orchestra/Blood Sweat & Tears/John Waite). Liberty Devitto is joined by guitarist Jon Herington (Steely Dan), New Brunswick singer Glen Burtnik (Styx), Asbury Park singer Reagan Richards (Williams Honor), bassist Malcolm Gold (Sheryl Crow) and saxophonist Tom Timko (Gloria Estefan).  

Liberty remains a vocal advocate for drummers, regularly appearing at drum clinics and industry events to inspire the next generation of percussionists.

With a career that spans decades and a legacy that continues to grow, Liberty DeVitto is more than a drummer—he is a cornerstone of modern music, whose beats will echo for generations to come.

Liberty joins us this week to share what continues to be an amazing ride through the music industry. A ride he has dedicated his entire life to.