Famed drummer Liberty DeVitto talks to 30 Days Out about his new book

Former Billy Joel drummer, Liberty DeVitto, is one of the great drummers of the rock era.  A powerhouse on stage who is idolized by drummers all over the world. He can now add author to his long list of accomplishments. He has penned, along with fellow drummer Sean Kennedy, Camp Jam: Rock Solid: Drums, a how-to book on how to become, not only a great drummer, but a great musician. The book covers the nuts and bolts of drumming and includes play-along tracks featuring a real band, with over five hours of music, tips, and suggestions on the MP3 disc, performed by DeVitto and Kennedy. DeVitto was nice enough to answer some questions for us about the book and what it takes to make it as a drummer.

New “Orange Is In” drummer

There have been great drummers throughout history; Buddy Rich, Hal Blaine, John Bonham, Neil Peart, Max Weinberg, Liberty DeVitto, Ringo Starr, just to name a few. But now it’s time to introduce you to my favorite drummer, seven-year old Andrew Kovacik. The young man rocked the second grade talent show at Greentree Elementary yesterday and he is line to be the next drummer in my band, Orange Is In. Sign him up, I think the kid has a future.

Liberty DeVitto takes Piano Man to court

  

Former Billy Joel drummer, Liberty DeVitto, is suing his old boss. Check out the story in the NY Post. DeVitto told us about his troubles with Joel a few months ago in a 30 Days Out exclusive interview.

Liberty DeVitto MySpace page

30 Days Out Exclusive Interview: Liberty DeVitto, former drummer for Billy Joel

Whenever I would buy a ticket to see BIlly Joel, I was also buying a ticket to see his drummer, Liberty DeVitto. DeVitto has always been my favorite drummer. I started taking lessons after I saw him play. He plays with power and passion and always looks like he is having the time of his life behind his kit. To me, he was the heart and soul behind Billy Joel’s music.

After years of recording and touring with Joel, the two had a falling out and he is now no longer part of the “Billy Joel Band.” I was always curious about what happened because they seemed to have a great rapport, both on and off stage.

Hunting around MySpace the other night I came across DeVitto’s page. I sent him an email and told him how much he inspired me and how I thought Joel’s current band wasn’t the same without him. I never thought I would get a reply, but I did. It’s quite a thrill when you can converse with one of your heroes and find out he’s one of the good guys. Anyway, DeVitto has graciously agreed to answer a few questions about his days with Joel, his split with Joel and what he’s doing now.