073: Frankie Banali from Quiet Riot Artwork

Sound Matters with Tom Leu

The SOUND MATTERS show features in-depth commentary and conversations with compelling artists, musicians, songwriters, composers, photographers, filmmakers, and entrepreneurs. Hosted by TOM LEU -- a music and media veteran, professional speaker, published photographer, composer and producer -- SOUND MATTERS uncovers the stories behind the artists, songs and sounds that inspire, challenge, and move us. Tom dives deep into the creative process, philosophical approaches, and unique perspectives of guests, along with providing cutting-edge commentary on important current and historical events in music, culture and entertainment.

All Episodes

Sound Matters with Tom Leu

073: Frankie Banali from Quiet Riot

January 25, 2019 • TOM★LEU • Season 3

0:00 | 24:46

Send us Fan Mail

Sound Matters episode #073 features Tom's conversation with Quiet Riot drummer, Frankie Banali. Frankie is best known for his work with multi-platinum heavy metal band Quiet Riot and is the only member remaining from the band's classic lineup. He has been the band's manager since 1994. Frankie has played drums for the band W.A.S.P., as well as with Billy Idol, and on numerous other albums as a session drummer. In this candid conversation, Tom and Frankie get into some great backstories about Kevin Dubrow, Randy Rhoads, in the studio with Quiet Riot, recording with Blackie Lawless and W.A.S.P. and much more...

SOUND MATTERS Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/soundmatters

Support the show

Connect with Tom:
👉🏻https://solo.to/tomleu
👉🏻https://facebook.com/tomleu
👉🏻https://instagram.com/tomleu

Introduction and Common Ground

Tom and Frankie Connect:

Tom expresses excitement and honor to talk with Frankie Banali.
They bond over their shared connections in Rockford, Illinois.
Frankie reminisces about a memorable experience in Rockford during a Black Sabbath tour.

Discussing One Night in Milan Live Album

Recording Conditions and Authenticity:

Frankie highlights the authenticity of the live album, emphasizing no overdubs or fixes.
Tom commends the band's raw energy and authenticity captured in the album.

Setlist Selection and Performance:

Frankie discusses the selection of tracks, aiming for a balance between classics and lesser-known songs.
They delve into the experience of playing in Italy for the first time and the diverse fan turnout.

Special Moments:

They discuss the inclusion of "Thunderbird" with a piano intro, providing insight into the decision-making process.
Frankie shares personal reflections on the song's significance, particularly regarding its connection to Randy Rhoads.

Studio Stories and Memories

Recording "Slick Black Cadillac":

Frankie recounts the backstory of recording "Slick Black Cadillac," including the use of a Corvette horn in the track.

Relationship with Kevin DuBrow:

Reflecting on their friendship, Frankie shares stories of honesty and resilience, even during challenging times.

Quiet Riot Documentary and Authenticity

Approach to Transparency:

Frankie explains his commitment to honesty, evident in both the Quiet Riot documentary and live album.

Lessons Learned:

He emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and making decisions based on integrity.

Reflection and Advice

Memories and Regrets:

Frankie expresses gratitude for his experiences while acknowledging the losses he's faced.
Despite hardships, he wouldn't change anything, valuing the journey and the people he's encountered.

Parting Words: