Liberty DeVitto: The Beat That Built BILLY JOEL’s Greatest Hits

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.