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What Is Liberty DeVitto’s Net Worth?
Liberty DeVitto, the esteemed American rock drummer renowned for his long-standing association with singer-songwriter Billy Joel, boasts a net worth of approximately $20 million. This substantial financial standing is primarily attributed to his prolific musical career, encompassing album recordings, extensive touring, and session work with a diverse array of prominent artists.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Born Liberatori DeVitto on August 8, 1950, in New York City, DeVitto’s upbringing was rooted in the traditions of his Italian immigrant parents. His father, a member of the New York City Police Department, provided a stable environment for young Liberty to explore his burgeoning passion for music. DeVitto’s fascination with drumming ignited after witnessing the Beatles’ iconic performance on “The Ed Sullivan Show” in 1964. Inspired by the band’s energy and the rhythmic prowess of their drummer, Ringo Starr, DeVitto embarked on a self-taught journey to master the instrument. He cites Dino Danelli, the drummer for the Young Rascals, as another significant influence on his developing style. At the age of 16, while playing with the band the New Rock Workshop, DeVitto crossed paths with Billy Joel in a club located in Plainview, Long Island, a meeting that would later shape the course of his career.
Collaborating with Billy Joel: A Career Defining Partnership
In the mid-1970s, DeVitto’s musical path intertwined with Billy Joel’s in a significant way. DeVitto was a member of the band Topper alongside bassist Doug Stegmeyer. Stegmeyer was selected to participate in Billy Joel’s “Streetlife” tour. Subsequently, Joel, who resided in Los Angeles at the time, expressed his desire to relocate back to New York and assemble a permanent band for both recording and touring purposes. Stegmeyer recommended DeVitto, and he was brought on as the drummer. The band was eventually solidified with the additions of saxophonist Richie Cannata and guitarists Russell Javors and Howie Emerson. The first studio album recorded by Joel with this ensemble was “Turnstiles,” released in 1976. The album did not chart as high as Joel’s later work, peaking at number 122 on the Billboard 200, but it was an important step in establishing the band’s sound and chemistry.
The following year, in 1977, marked a pivotal moment in both Joel’s and DeVitto’s careers with the release of “The Stranger.” The album’s commercial success was unprecedented, reaching number two on the Billboard 200 and spawning four hit singles: “Just the Way You Are,” “Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song),” “Only the Good Die Young,” and “She’s Always a Woman.” “Just the Way You Are” earned Joel two Grammy Awards, solidifying his place in the music industry and catapulting the band to international recognition. It sold millions of copies worldwide, with RIAA certification of 10x platinum. The success of “The Stranger” was a critical milestone, establishing Joel and his band as major players in the music scene.
Building upon the momentum of “The Stranger,” Joel and his band continued their ascent with the 1978 album “52nd Street.” The album reached the pinnacle of success, topping the Billboard 200 chart and earning the prestigious Grammy Award for Album of the Year. Hit singles from the album included “My Life,” “Big Shot,” and “Honesty,” all of which further cemented Joel’s reputation as a masterful songwriter and performer. “52nd Street” was certified 7x platinum by the RIAA, further demonstrating its commercial appeal and lasting impact.
In 1980, the album “Glass Houses” followed, maintaining the band’s impressive track record. It also topped the Billboard 200 and featured Joel’s first number-one hit single, “It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me.” The album, influenced by the punk and new wave sounds of the era, showcased Joel’s versatility and willingness to experiment with different musical styles. “Glass Houses” earned critical acclaim and commercial success, solidifying Joel’s position as one of the leading artists of the time. The album was certified 3x platinum by the RIAA.
DeVitto’s drumming prowess was showcased on Joel’s first live album, “Songs in the Attic,” released in 1981. The album featured live versions of Joel’s earlier, lesser-known songs, giving them a fresh and energetic feel. DeVitto’s dynamic drumming added a new dimension to these tracks, demonstrating his ability to adapt and enhance Joel’s music in a live setting. “Songs in the Attic” reached number eight on the Billboard 200 and was certified 3x platinum by the RIAA.
In 1982, DeVitto contributed to the studio album “The Nylon Curtain,” a more experimental and introspective work by Joel. The album delved into social and political themes, showcasing Joel’s growth as a songwriter. DeVitto’s drumming on “The Nylon Curtain” was characterized by its subtlety and sensitivity, complementing the album’s more nuanced approach. The album reached number seven on the Billboard 200 and was certified 2x platinum by the RIAA.
Joel’s 1983 studio album, “An Innocent Man,” was a commercial triumph, spawning the number-one hit single “Tell Her About It.” The album, inspired by the music of the 1950s and 1960s, was a nostalgic and upbeat collection of songs. DeVitto’s drumming on “An Innocent Man” was characterized by its infectious energy and danceable rhythms, perfectly capturing the album’s lighthearted spirit. The album reached number four on the Billboard 200 and was certified 7x platinum by the RIAA.
The album “The Bridge,” released in 1986, marked a transition in Joel’s career, and it was the last album to feature Stegmeyer and Javors. While commercially successful, reaching number seven on the Billboard 200 and achieving double platinum certification, it was considered by some to be a less cohesive effort than his previous albums. The album featured the singles “A Matter of Trust” and “Modern Woman,” which were both moderate hits.
In 1989, Joel released “Storm Front,” which marked another shift in his musical direction. With Schuyler Deale and Joey Hunting replacing Stegmeyer and Javors, respectively, the album had a different sound and feel. Despite the changes, “Storm Front” was a major commercial success, peaking at the top of the Billboard 200 and featuring the number-one single “We Didn’t Start the Fire.” The song, a rapid-fire recitation of historical events, earned three Grammy Award nominations and became one of Joel’s signature songs. “Storm Front” was certified 4x platinum by the RIAA.
Joel’s final rock album, “River of Dreams,” was released in 1993 and became his fourth album to reach number one on the Billboard 200. Remaining at the top spot for three weeks, the album featured the hit singles “All About Soul” and the title track “River of Dreams.” Like most of Joel’s preceding albums, “River of Dreams” garnered multiple Grammy Award nominations, including Album of the Year, selling over 5 million copies. The album represented a culmination of Joel’s career, showcasing his songwriting and performing talents.
After three decades of collaboration, DeVitto was unexpectedly dismissed from Joel’s touring band in 2006. The circumstances surrounding his departure remain a topic of speculation among fans and industry insiders. The exact details of any severance package or financial settlement remain private.
Contributions to Other Artists’ Albums
Beyond his work with Billy Joel, Liberty DeVitto has lent his drumming skills to a wide range of other artists, contributing to their studio recordings. These collaborations have further diversified his musical portfolio and added to his overall earnings. DeVitto’s session work has included recordings with Stevie Nicks, Paul McCartney, Carly Simon, Meat Loaf, Karen Carpenter, and Rick Wakeman. He appeared on Meat Loaf’s 1981 album “Dead Ringer,” contributing his signature drumming style to the album’s hard-rocking sound. “Dead Ringer” reached number one in the UK Albums Chart and was certified platinum in the United Kingdom. DeVitto also played on Carly Simon’s 1985 album “Spoiled Girl,” adding his rhythmic flair to the album’s pop-oriented tracks. “Spoiled Girl” reached number 88 on the Billboard 200. Additionally, DeVitto contributed to Karen Carpenter’s self-titled 1996 solo album, which comprised recordings made between 1979 and 1980. The album, released posthumously, showcased Carpenter’s vocal talents and DeVitto’s sensitive drumming. He also played on Mick Jones’s self-titled 1989 solo album, adding his percussive expertise to the album’s rock sound. The album featured guest appearances from several prominent musicians, including Billy Joel. Specific payment details for session work for these and other artists is generally confidential.
Later Musical Endeavors
In 2012, DeVitto embarked on a new musical venture, forming the band the Slim Kings with singer-songwriter Michael Sackler-Berner and bassist Andy Attanasio. The band’s first album, “Fresh Socks,” showcased their blues-infused rock sound. Their second album, “Dirty Socks,” was released in 2017 and further refined their musical style. In 2014, DeVitto joined forces with fellow former Billy Joel band members Richie Cannata and Russell Javors to create the band the Lords of 52nd Street. This band celebrates the music of Billy Joel, performing his classic songs in concert. The Lords of 52nd Street has featured various other members over the years, including Dennis DelGaudio, Doug Kistner, Malcolm Gold, and Dan Orlando. The specific financial arrangements for these musical projects are not publicly available.
Philanthropic Activities
Beyond his musical endeavors, Liberty DeVitto is actively involved in philanthropic work, particularly with the nonprofit organization Music Will, formerly known as Little Kids Rock. This organization is dedicated to providing free musical instruments and instruction to children in underfunded public schools throughout the United States. DeVitto has personally delivered instruments to children and performed at benefit events for the organization, demonstrating his commitment to music education and community service. Specific details regarding donations made by DeVitto are not released by Music Will.
Personal Life
Liberty DeVitto is the father of four daughters. One of his daughters, Torrey DeVitto, has achieved recognition as an actress, appearing in popular television series such as “One Tree Hill,” “Pretty Little Liars,” “The Vampire Diaries,” and “Chicago Med.” It is important to note that Torrey DeVitto’s net worth and career are separate from those of her father.
