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Stephen A. Ferrone (born 25 April 1950) is an English drummer. He was a member of the rock band Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers from 1994 to 2017, replacing original drummer Stan Lynch, and was part of the "classic lineup" of the Average White Band in the 1970s. Ferrone has recorded and performed with Michael Jackson, Eric Clapton, Phil Collins, George Harrison, Duran Duran, Stevie Nicks, Laura Pausini, Christine McVie, Rick James, Slash, Chaka Khan, Bee Gees, Scritti Politti, Howard Jones, Aerosmith, Al Jarreau, Mick Jagger, Johnny Cash, Todd Rundgren and Pat Metheny. Ferrone also hosts The New Guy radio show on Sirius XM's Tom Petty Radio.

Musical career

[edit]

Ferrone played with the band Bloodstone, appearing on their 1975 album Riddle of the Sphinx. He then began playing with Brian Auger's band Oblivion Express, which had previously featured drummer Robbie McIntosh.

McIntosh later joined the Average White Band, but just after releasing their first number-one album, he died of a heroin overdose. Ferrone was asked to join AWB in his place and stayed with them for the next eight years, recording and playing concert tours to support several hit albums, until AWB broke up in 1982.[1]

Since appearing on Chaka Khan's 1978 debut album, Ferrone went on to play on most of her subsequent albums in the 80s, including "Naughty" with former AWB band member Hamish Stuart. In 1985, Ferrone joined the Saturday Night Live house band and was there for the 1985–86 season.[2] He contributed as session drummer for Duran Duran on the Notorious, Big Thing, Duran Duran, and Thank You albums. He also toured with Duran Duran on the Strange Behaviour Tour in support of Notorious. He also toured and recorded with Eric Clapton from 1986 to 1992. During rehearsals in London for the George Harrison tour, he played drums for Duran Duran at Abbey Road Studios and recorded "Ordinary World." In 1991, Ferrone played drums on the George Harrison tour in Japan including three nights at the Tokyo Dome.[2]

Ferrone met guitarist Mike Campbell of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers when the two played a show with George Harrison as part of his Hari and the Hijack band at Royal Albert Hall. He became the band's full-time drummer after the departure of original drummer Stan Lynch in 1994. Ferrone's first album with the band was Tom Petty's second solo outing Wildflowers, released that same year.[2] His first live performance as a member of the Heartbreakers was in Louisville, Kentucky on 28 February 1995.

In November 2002, Ferrone set up Drumroll Studios in Burbank, California with financial advisor Alan Arora and the technical expertise of producer John Jones, with whom he had worked since Duran Duran's "Ordinary World" in 1992.[citation needed] Later, they were joined by guitarist and producer Steve Postell. Together they recorded and produced albums and tracks for a variety of musical acts, as well as film and TV scores.

In 2010, Ferrone played on the eponymous first solo album by Slash, and joined the Italian band Pooh. He also worked on a collaborative project with composer and musician Eric Alexandrakis, guitarist and composer Warren Cuccurullo, and producer and songwriter Anthony J. Resta. Explaining the purpose of that project in a Modern Drummer news release, Alexandrakis said, "The four of us decided to create a scoring collective to pursue scoring projects in TV themes, film and advertising."[3][4] In August 2018, he was announced as drummer for Dire Straits Legacy prior to their first US tour, consisting of 10 dates.[5]

On 10 July 2019, Ferrone was inducted into the Brighton Music Walk of Fame in his hometown of Brighton, England.[6] That same year, he recorded session drums for Stroke 9's studio album, Calafrio.[7]

As of July 2024, Ferrone is on the road as the drummer for Mike Campbell's solo project, The Dirty Knobs.[8][9]

Personal life

[edit]

Stephen A. Ferrone was born on 25 April 1950 in Brighton, Sussex.[10][11]

Discography

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]

Grokipedia

Steve Ferrone

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Steve Ferrone (born April 25, 1950) is an English drummer renowned for his versatile session and touring work across rock, funk, and pop genres.[1] Best known as the longtime drummer for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers from 1994 until Petty's death in 2017, Ferrone contributed to acclaimed albums like Wildflowers (1994) and Highway Companion (2006), and performed on major tours, including the band's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction performance in 2002.[2] Earlier in his career, he rose to prominence as a member of the Average White Band from 1974 to 1982, performing their hit single "Pick Up the Pieces" live and drumming on albums such as Cut the Cake (1975).[3] A prolific session musician since the 1970s, Ferrone has collaborated with artists including Eric Clapton (on tours and recordings from 1986 to 1992), Duran Duran (on Notorious in 1986 and Thank You in 1995), Chaka Khan (on her self-titled 1982 album and others), George Harrison, Stevie Nicks, Slash, the Bee Gees, and Johnny Cash, among many others.[4] Born in Brighton, England, Ferrone began drumming at age 12, influenced by Motown and British Invasion acts, and initially honed his skills through tap dancing before transitioning to professional music in London.[5] His groove-oriented style, drawing from drummers like Bernard Purdie and Al Jackson, has made him a sought-after player in both live and studio settings, including stints with the Saturday Night Live house band in 1985 and as a substitute for Aerosmith's Joey Kramer during Nine Lives (1997) pre-production.[4] In 2003, he released his solo live album It Up: Steve Ferrone and Friends Live at La Ve Lee, showcasing his collaborative spirit with guests like Ivan Neville and Benmont Tench.[3] Ferrone was inducted into the Brighton Music Walk of Fame in 2019, recognizing his enduring impact on music.[6] Following Petty's death, Ferrone has remained active, hosting the radio program The New Guy Show on SiriusXM's Tom Petty Radio (channel 31) as of 2025.[7]

Early life

Childhood and family

Stephen A. Ferrone was born on April 25, 1950, in Brighton, Sussex, England.[8] Ferrone grew up in a household where music was a constant presence during the 1950s and 1960s in Brighton. His parents enjoyed music and exposed him to performances and recordings.[4] At around age three or four, Ferrone began tap dancing; this activity introduced him to syncopation and dynamics through standards like "Old Black Magic" and "Begin the Beguine," using shoes equipped with taps.[2] A pivotal moment came shortly after, at five or six years old, when his parents took him to see the Deep River Boys, an American close harmony group, marking the first time he felt deeply moved by music and igniting his interest in vocal and rhythmic harmony.[4] These early experiences, shaped by his parents' encouragement, fostered Ferrone's initial fascination with performance arts beyond mere listening.

Musical beginnings and education

Steve Ferrone's interest in music was sparked early in a household where rhythm and performance were part of family life, setting the stage for his lifelong dedication to drumming. Growing up in Brighton, England, during the pre-Beatles era of the early 1960s, he began experimenting with drums around age 12 after being captivated by the motor skills of a drummer he saw performing with Manfred Mann at a local dance. Largely self-taught, Ferrone practiced informally as a teenager, honing techniques on a basic setup while absorbing the sounds of the time, including Twist beats and jazz pieces like Dave Brubeck's "Take Five." He soon started playing local gigs with amateur blues bands at dances and venues, including opening for emerging acts and performing on American military bases in Europe, which allowed him to refine his skills through hands-on experience.[4] Ferrone's early style was heavily shaped by key influences from the Motown sound, particularly the syncopated grooves of drummer Bernard Purdie on tracks like Ben E. King's "What Is Soul?", as well as the fusion innovations of Jack DeJohnette and the groove-focused simplicity of Ringo Starr with the Beatles. These artists inspired him to prioritize feel and pocket over flash, a philosophy he credits for his versatile touch: "That was my decision – become Bill Gates or Bernard Purdie and I chose Bernard Purdie." His teenage years involved extensive informal practice, blending these influences into a self-developed approach that emphasized serving the song rather than soloing.[4][3] By 1968, at age 18, Ferrone transitioned to professional drumming following years of dedicated teenage practice and local performances, marking the end of his informal phase and the beginning of a touring career across Europe. Despite his growing proficiency, he lacked formal music reading skills at this point, relying on ear training and intuition. Three years later, at age 21 in 1971, he sought structured education by enrolling at a conservatory in Nice, France, for about a year, where he learned to read music and studied classical techniques and syncopation alongside his work with a local band, The Piranhas. This training provided a foundational discipline that complemented his intuitive style, enabling greater adaptability in future endeavors.[4][2][3]

Musical career

Early bands and influences

Ferrone entered the professional music scene in the early 1970s, initially gaining experience through session work and band engagements in Europe before transitioning to more prominent roles.[4] In 1973, he joined Brian Auger's Oblivion Express, a jazz-fusion group known for blending Hammond organ-driven improvisation with funk rhythms, where Ferrone contributed dynamic drumming on albums such as Straight Ahead (1974).[9] His playing on tracks like "Beginning Again" showcased a balance of technical precision and groove, supporting Auger's expansive soundscapes while incorporating syncopated patterns that highlighted the band's live energy on recordings like Live Oblivion Vol. 1.[4] Following his time with Oblivion Express, Ferrone transitioned to the American R&B group Bloodstone, appearing on their 1975 album Riddle of the Sphinx, which featured a soulful, funk-infused style with psychedelic elements.[3] This period marked his deeper immersion in the U.S. music landscape after relocating to America in 1973 with Oblivion Express, a move that exposed him to broader opportunities but required adaptation to new cultural and professional dynamics, including navigating the competitive session scene in New York.[9] The relocation intensified his growth, as he drew on prior formal training in music reading—acquired during studies in Nice, France, around 1971—to refine his versatility amid the demands of transatlantic touring and recording.[4] Ferrone's playing style evolved significantly during these years, shifting from his jazz-oriented roots, influenced by drummers like Elvin Jones, toward a funk and rock-inflected approach shaped by Motown and American soul icons such as Bernard Purdie and Al Jackson Jr.[4] He emphasized groove and restraint over flashy solos, learning to "play for the song" through early challenges like balancing technical chops with emotional feel in high-pressure live settings.[4] This formative phase, including the logistical strains of international moves and band transitions, honed his reputation for reliable, feel-driven percussion that bridged jazz complexity with soulful accessibility.[9]

Average White Band era

Steve Ferrone joined the Average White Band (AWB) in 1974 following the tragic death of founding drummer Robbie McIntosh from a heroin overdose in September of that year.[10] Having previously played with bands like Brian Auger's Oblivion Express, Ferrone was a natural fit for AWB's emerging blue-eyed soul and funk sound, which blended tight grooves with jazz-inflected rhythms. His integration helped stabilize the band during a pivotal transition, allowing them to build on the momentum of their self-titled album AWB (1974), though he did not contribute to its original recordings.[4] Ferrone's drumming became central to AWB's output from 1975 onward, featuring on key albums such as Cut the Cake (1975), Soul Searching (1976), and the live double album Person to Person (1976). He laid down the grooves for major hits including "Cut the Cake," which reached No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, and "School Boy Crush" from Soul Searching, peaking at No. 22. On Person to Person, captured from concerts across their extensive U.S. tours, Ferrone delivered a standout drum solo on the live rendition of "Pick Up the Pieces," the band's earlier instrumental smash that had topped the charts in 1975. His style emphasized pocket and dynamics—"light and shade," as he described it—drawing from influences like Stevie Wonder's subtle hi-hat accents to enhance AWB's groove-oriented funk without overpowering the ensemble.[4] During Ferrone's tenure through 1982, AWB enjoyed their commercial peak, with multiple gold and platinum albums in the U.S., including Cut the Cake and Soul Searching, alongside relentless international touring that included headlining slots across North America and Europe. These tours, often spanning months and featuring high-energy performances, solidified their reputation as one of the tightest funk acts of the era, sharing bills with acts like Earth, Wind & Fire. However, the band faced internal challenges, including skepticism from some Black audiences in the 1970s who questioned the authenticity of a Scottish group playing soul and funk, as well as the pressures of constant road life and shifting musical trends toward disco. By 1982, amid declining sales and lineup changes, AWB effectively disbanded, prompting Ferrone to pursue session work.[4][11]

Session work with major artists

Ferrone's session career took off in the late 1970s, establishing him as a versatile freelance drummer sought after for his ability to blend funk-infused grooves with adaptability across genres. His long-term collaboration with Chaka Khan began on her self-titled debut album Chaka in 1978, where he provided drums and handclaps on tracks like "I'm Every Woman," and continued through the 1980s on albums such as Naughty (1980), featuring his rhythmic foundation on songs like "Papillon (AKA Hot Butterfly)," and I Feel for You (1984), including additional drums on the title track. This partnership extended into the 1990s with contributions to The Woman I Am (1992), showcasing his consistent role in supporting Khan's soul and R&B sound with precise, pocket-driven performances.[12][13][14][15] In the mid-1980s, Ferrone contributed to several high-profile rock and pop projects, including Eric Clapton's August (1986), where he played drums on key tracks like "It's in the Way That You Use It," helping to drive the album's blend of blues and synth-pop. His work with Clapton spanned until 1992, encompassing Journeyman (1989) and live performances, emphasizing a solid, supportive groove that complemented Clapton's guitar work. Around the same period, Ferrone joined Duran Duran for their album Notorious (1986), delivering drums across the record, including the title track, and toured with the band during the Strange Behaviour Tour, adapting his style to their new wave funk. He also drummed on sessions for Michael Jackson's HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I (1995), notably influencing the arrangement of "Earth Song" by suggesting a rhythmic shift during recording, and appeared on Blood on the Dance Floor: HIStory in the Mix (1997).[16][17][18][19] Ferrone's collaborations extended to other icons, including George Harrison's Live in Japan (1992), where he provided drums for the tour supporting The Dark Horse Years 1976-1992 box set, performing alongside Clapton's band in a seamless fusion of rock and ex-Beatles sensibility. With the Bee Gees, he played drums on their 1989 album One, contributing to tracks like "Ordinary Lives" with a steady, melodic pulse that fit their pop harmonies. His work with Stevie Nicks included drumming on Trouble in Shangri-La (2001), such as "Planets of the Universe," and In Your Dreams (2011), where he shared percussion duties with Mick Fleetwood, adding depth to her ethereal rock style. In the 1990s, Ferrone substituted for Aerosmith's Joey Kramer during pre-production of Nine Lives (1997), stepping in amid Kramer's personal challenges to help lay down initial tracks and maintain the band's momentum.[20][21][22][23][24] Throughout these sessions, Ferrone's approach prioritized adaptability, allowing him to tailor his playing to each artist's vision, as he noted, "You have to be able to adapt to whatever the artist wants." He emphasized achieving a "pocket" groove—a tight, intuitive rhythmic feel derived from his funk roots—that provided a strong foundation without overpowering the music, enabling seamless integration into diverse productions.[2][25]

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

In 1994, Steve Ferrone joined Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers as their full-time drummer, replacing Stan Lynch following personal and creative conflicts that led to Lynch's departure in October of that year.[26] Ferrone's prior session experience, including work with artists like Eric Clapton and Duran Duran, aided his successful audition, where he connected with guitarist Mike Campbell during a George Harrison concert.[3] He debuted on the band's album Wildflowers, contributing drums to tracks like "You Don’t Know How It Feels," which helped shape the record's introspective rock sound through live tracking sessions.[26] His first live performance with the group occurred on February 28, 1995, at the Louisville Gardens in Louisville, Kentucky, marking the start of extensive touring that solidified his integration into the lineup.[3][27] Throughout his 23-year tenure, Ferrone played a pivotal role in evolving the Heartbreakers' sound, infusing R&B-influenced grooves and metronomic precision that added depth and drive to their music. On Echo (1999), his dynamic drumming enhanced the album's emotional intensity and raw energy, while on Hypnotic Eye (2014), the band's final studio release, he delivered powerful rhythms that underscored its bluesy, guitar-heavy rock edge.[26][2] Ferrone's style complemented Petty's songwriting vision, providing a steady foundation that allowed the band to explore more polished and rhythmic territories compared to their earlier, punk-leaning era. A highlight of this period was the Heartbreakers' performance at the Super Bowl XLII halftime show on February 3, 2008, where Ferrone's solid backbeat powered hits like "American Girl" and "Runnin' Down a Dream" before a massive audience.[28][2] Within the band, Ferrone served as a stabilizing force and peacekeeper, fostering a collaborative dynamic built on mutual respect and creative passion. He described the Heartbreakers as a "tight unit" where "everyone had their role," crediting Petty's leadership for granting him the freedom to interpret parts intuitively.[2] His close personal relationship with Petty, formed through years of touring—including the 2017 40th Anniversary Tour—emphasized trust and enjoyment, with Ferrone noting Petty's integrity and the fun of their shared musical life.[3][29] Ferrone's departure came in the wake of Petty's sudden death on October 2, 2017, effectively ending the band's run after decades of landmark performances.[2]

Post-2017 projects and studio ownership

Following the disbandment of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers in 2017, Steve Ferrone maintained an active presence in the music industry through new band affiliations and live performances. In 2023, he officially joined Mike Campbell's project, The Dirty Knobs, as their drummer, contributing to the album Vagabonds, Virgins & Misfits (2024) on the track "Angel of Mercy" after the departure of previous drummer Matt Laug.[30] Ferrone has since toured extensively with the group, including shows in 2024 at venues such as the Sound Board in Detroit and the Midland Theatre in Newark, Ohio, and continued into 2025 with performances like the August concert at the Fox Theatre in Oakland, California.[31][32][33] Ferrone also expanded his collaborative efforts with other artists during this period. In 2018, he joined Dire Straits Legacy—a touring ensemble featuring former Dire Straits members—for a series of European and U.S. theater shows, including the band's appearance at the Giro d'Italia cycling event finale.[34] His earlier session work on Slash's 2010 self-titled solo album, including drums on "Gotten" featuring Adam Levine, underscored his ongoing reputation in rock circles, though no further direct collaborations with Slash have been documented post-2010.[35] In 2025, Ferrone participated in Tom Petty tribute performances with the New York-based band Petty People, appearing at the South Orange Performing Arts Center on October 3 and a holiday show at The Bitter End on December 13.[36][37] A key aspect of Ferrone's post-2017 endeavors has been his ownership and operation of Drumroll Studios in Burbank, California, which he co-founded in 2002 with financial advisor Alan Arora and producer John Patterson. The facility serves as a hub for his production and recording activities, including session work for charitable projects such as the 2022 Ukraine Heart Project album, where he laid down drum tracks for the track "Heart of Ukraine."[8][38] Ferrone recorded his 2003 live solo album, It Up: Steve Ferrone and Friends Live at La Ve Lee, at the studio, capturing performances with guests like Gerald Albright and Everette Harp, and he has continued to leverage it for ongoing solo and collaborative releases, including video series with Steve Ferrone & Friends covering Heartbreakers classics like "Learning to Fly."[39] Beyond performing and producing, Ferrone has engaged in media and educational roles. He hosts The New Guy Show on SiriusXM's Tom Petty Radio (Channel 31), a program spotlighting emerging artists and Petty-related content.[40] In October 2025, Ferrone appeared for a 2.5-hour interview on the Go With Elmo podcast, reflecting on his career transitions and session techniques post-Heartbreakers.[40] Earlier, in November 2024, he co-led a master class on drums and bass with bassist Will Lee at District Live in Savannah, Georgia, as part of the Me, Myself & Us concert series, sharing insights on session musicianship.[41]

Personal life

Marriages and children

Steve Ferrone has been married four times.[42] He has children from one of his ex-wives, including a daughter named Becky.[43] These children have given him nine grandchildren, whom he has embraced as part of his extended family.[44] In the early 2020s, Ferrone shared family photos featuring himself with Becky and several of his grandchildren.[45] Throughout his career, Ferrone has spoken about the challenges of balancing the demands of the rock lifestyle with family responsibilities, noting that extensive touring often left him at home for only about two months out of the year, which strained his relationships.[42] To achieve greater stability, he made significant personal changes in the early 1990s, including quitting alcohol and drugs, which allowed him to focus more effectively on his family dynamics.[42]

Health challenges and hobbies

In 2020, Ferrone underwent knee surgery.[46] He shared updates on his progress, highlighting the support from his family, including time spent with his daughter Becky and grandchildren during the healing process around 2020.[45] This experience underscored his efforts to maintain work-life balance in the aftermath, allowing him to prioritize personal well-being alongside his musical commitments.[2] Ferrone has long been a dedicated supporter of the English football club Brighton and Hove Albion, often referred to as "The Seagulls," reflecting his roots in the city where he was born.[3] His fandom was notably displayed during the Super Bowl XLII halftime show in 2008, where he performed with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers while wearing a hat emblazoned with the club's badge.[3] This passion extends to attending sports events, which serves as a key hobby that helps him unwind from the rigors of touring and recording.[47] Beyond football, Ferrone enjoys golf, which he pursues whenever his schedule permits as a way to stay active and relax.[2] These pursuits contribute to his approach to aging in the music industry, where he has reflected on the physical limitations that come with time, noting, "You realize you can’t do what you used to do," while adapting through such recreational outlets to sustain his career longevity.[2]

Legacy and recognition

Awards and honors

Throughout his career, Steve Ferrone has received numerous accolades recognizing his contributions as a drummer in rock, R&B, and session work. He has earned one Grammy Award and six nominations from the Recording Academy. His Grammy win came in 2009 for Best Long Form Music Video, shared with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers for the documentary Runnin' Down a Dream, directed by Peter Bogdanovich, which chronicled the band's history.[48] His nominations include Best Rock Album for Hypnotic Eye (2015) and Mojo (2011) with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, as well as Best R&B Instrumental Performance in 1979 for the Average White Band's work.[49][48] In 2019, Ferrone was inducted into the Brighton Music Walk of Fame in his hometown of Brighton, England, on July 10, honoring his global impact as a musician from the coastal city.[50] This induction celebrated his journey from local roots to collaborations with international artists. Ferrone has also been recognized through professional endorsements and media roles that highlight his stature in the drumming community. He serves as an endorsed artist for Sabian Cymbals, where he has been featured for his use of their HHX Complex series in live and studio performances.[51] Additionally, he hosts The New Guy Show on SiriusXM's Tom Petty Radio (Channel 31), a weekly program that underscores his ongoing influence and connection to rock music legacy.

Influence on drumming and tributes

Steve Ferrone's signature "pocket" groove style, characterized by a tight, relaxed precision and subtle dynamics, has profoundly influenced funk-rock drummers by emphasizing feel and song service over flashy technique. This approach, honed through influences like Bernard Purdie and Al Jackson, prioritizes hi-hat accents and light-shade variations to lock into the music's emotional core, as demonstrated in his work with the Average White Band and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.[4][2] Drummers such as Questlove have cited Ferrone as a formative idol, particularly for his syncopated adaptation of Purdie's hi-hat-heavy backbeat, which Questlove emulated early in his career with The Roots.[52] Ferrone's groove on tracks like "You Don’t Know How It Feels" serves as a benchmark for pocket playing, blending funk's propulsion with rock's restraint.[2] Post-career tributes underscore Ferrone's enduring reputation, with notable appearances highlighting his role in celebrating his collaborative legacy. In 2024, he performed as the drummer for Generation Radio, a supergroup featuring members from Chicago and Rascal Flatts, at events including the Caroga Arts Collective concert on July 27, where his grooves elevated classic rock and country hits.[53][54] Similarly, in 2025, Ferrone joined the tribute band Petty People for performances at The Bitter End in New York City, including the May 9 shows and the upcoming December 13 holiday event, sharing stories from his 25 years with Tom Petty and delivering authentic renditions of Heartbreakers material.[55][56] Ferrone's mentorship extends his influence through educational initiatives and reflective discussions. He co-led a master class on session drumming with bassist Will Lee on November 8, 2024, at District Live in Savannah, Georgia, imparting insights on adaptability and precision drawn from his decades in the studio.[41] A deep-dive interview in October 2025 further illuminated his philosophy, positioning him as the "pocket king" whose sampled breaks, like that in Average White Band's "School Boy Crush," shaped hip-hop production and inspired generations of versatile players.[57] As a bridge from 1970s funk to 2010s rock, Ferrone's legacy lies in his seamless transition from session work to band leadership, fostering grooves that adapt across genres while maintaining unyielding timekeeping. His career, spanning collaborations with Eric Clapton, George Harrison, and Johnny Cash, exemplifies reliability and innovation, earning acclaim for elevating recordings like the Grammy-winning Wildflowers and Clapton's Unplugged.[57][2] This versatility continues to resonate, influencing drummers who value groove as the foundation of musical expression.[4]

Discography

Key band albums

Ferrone joined the Average White Band in 1974 following the death of original drummer Robbie McIntosh, providing the rhythmic foundation for their funk-driven sound on subsequent albums. His debut with the group was Cut the Cake (1975), where his tight grooves supported the title track's Top 10 hit and helped propel the album to platinum status.[58] He continued drumming on Soul Searching (1976), contributing to hits like "Queen of My Soul" and maintaining the band's blend of soul and jazz influences through their commercial peak.[5] Ferrone's steady, versatile playing anchored further releases including Benny and Us (1977), a collaboration with Ben E. King, and Warmer Communications (1978), until the band's 1982 album Volume VIII.[3] During his AWB tenure, Ferrone also drummed on Bloodstone's Riddle of the Sphinx (1975), infusing the R&B/funk ensemble's mystical-themed tracks with dynamic percussion that complemented their soulful harmonies.[3] Ferrone became a core member of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers in 1994, replacing Stan Lynch and delivering precise, energetic beats that enhanced the band's rock edge. He played on Petty's Wildflowers (1994), a introspective solo album featuring Heartbreakers contributions, where his drumming added emotional depth to tracks like "You Don't Know How It Feels."[2] His work continued with Playback (1995), a compilation including new recordings; Songs and Music from She's the One (1996), providing propulsion for the soundtrack's raw, narrative-driven songs; Echo (1999), bolstering the group's reflective post-grunge explorations; The Last DJ (2002); Mojo (2010); and Hypnotic Eye (2014), their final studio album, where his rhythms drove gritty anthems like "U Get Me High."[3] In recent years, Ferrone has collaborated with Mike Campbell's Dirty Knobs, joining as drummer in 2023 to support the group's guitar-centric rock. He contributed to Vagabonds, Virgins & Misfits (2024), where his experienced pocket enhanced Campbell's riff-heavy compositions and guest features from artists like Graham Nash.[30]

Selected session contributions

Ferrone's session contributions as a drummer have been pivotal to many landmark recordings, showcasing his ability to blend funk, rock, and pop elements on high-profile projects. Beginning in the late 1970s, he established himself through collaborations with artists like Chaka Khan, providing the rhythmic foundation for her breakthrough solo efforts that fused soul and disco influences. On Khan's debut album Chaka (1978), Ferrone played drums on multiple tracks, working alongside former Average White Band members to create a vibrant, groove-oriented sound that helped define her early career. He followed this with drumming duties on her sophomore release Naughty (1980), where his precise, energetic playing supported hits like "Clouds" and contributed to the album's commercial success, peaking at number eight on the Billboard R&B chart.[59][60] Throughout the 1980s, Ferrone's sessions extended to rock icons, including Eric Clapton. He provided drums for Clapton's August (1986), enhancing the album's polished production on tracks such as the Phil Collins collaboration "Behind the Mask." Similarly, on Journeyman (1989), Ferrone's contributions to songs like "Pretending" and "Running on Faith" added a dynamic pulse to Clapton's comeback effort, which reached number seven on the Billboard 200.[16] Ferrone also joined Duran Duran during a transitional period, drumming on their sixth studio album Notorious (1986), produced by Nile Rodgers, where his rhythms underpinned the band's shift toward funkier, dance-oriented material, including the title track that hit number two on the Billboard Hot 100. He later appeared on their covers album Thank You (1995), delivering solid performances on reinterpretations like "White Lines (Don't Do It)."[61][35] Beyond these, Ferrone participated in notable tracks with George Harrison, including live renditions and rehearsals such as a 1992 performance of "Taxman" that captured the ex-Beatle's touring energy. He contributed to Michael Jackson's "Earth Song" sessions in 1995, suggesting a key percussive element that shaped the track's anthemic build-up on the HIStory album. In later years, Ferrone drummed on Slash's self-titled solo debut (2010), powering rock tracks like "By the Sword" with Myles Kennedy. More recently, he provided drums for Stroke 9's Calafrio (2020), infusing the indie rock album with his experienced groove on songs like the title track. These selections represent Ferrone's impact on genre-defining releases, from soul to hard rock.[2][62][63][64]

Solo releases

Ferrone's primary solo recording is the live album It Up: Steve Ferrone and Friends Live at La Ve Lee, released in 2003 on his own Drumroll Records label.[65] Recorded at the La Ve Lee venue in Los Angeles, the album features Ferrone on drums leading a ensemble of guest musicians, including performances of jazz and rock standards such as "Everything Must Change," "Country Preacher," and "Josie."[39] The eight-track set, running over an hour, showcases Ferrone's improvisational style and collaborative approach, with extended jams emphasizing his rhythmic foundation.[66] This release was enabled by the establishment of Drumroll Studios in Burbank, California, in late 2002, which Ferrone co-founded to support independent productions.[67] While the studio facilitated various projects, no additional self-produced solo tracks by Ferrone have been commercially released as of November 2025.[1] In side projects, Ferrone contributed drums to the Italian band Pooh's 2011 album Dove Comincia il Sole, following a temporary replacement role after their longtime drummer's departure, and joined The Straits—a Dire Straits tribute ensemble—in 2011 for live performances, though neither yielded solo credits under his name.[3] No unreleased solo efforts or minor recordings have been publicly documented in interviews through 2025.[68]

References

  1. Steve Ferrone
  2. Steve Ferrone Interview: Drummer on Tom Petty, George Harrison
  3. Biography - Steve Ferrone
  4. Give The Drummer Some: Steve Ferrone
  5. Steve Ferrone Songs, Albums, Reviews, Bio & Mo... - AllMusic
  6. Much-Deserved Congratulations to Drummer Steve Ferrone on ...
  7. Steve Ferrone - IMDb
  8. Steve Ferrone - Not Your Average Drummer
  9. Average White Band's Surprise #1: 'Pick Up the Pieces'
  10. Average White Band - SoulTracks
  11. https://www.discogs.com/release/1347774-Chaka-Khan-Chaka
  12. https://www.discogs.com/release/3536083-Chaka-Khan-Naughty
  13. https://www.discogs.com/release/1198231-Chaka-Khan-I-Feel-For-You
  14. https://www.discogs.com/release/3268372-Chaka-Khan-The-Woman-I-Am
  15. https://www.discogs.com/release/718577-Eric-Clapton-Journeyman
  16. https://www.discogs.com/release/182469-Duran-Duran-Notorious
  17. https://www.discogs.com/release/2226508-Michael-Jackson-HIStory-Past-Present-And-Future-Book-I
  18. https://www.discogs.com/release/1853625-Michael-Jackson-Blood-On-The-Dance-Floor-HIStory-In-The-Mix
  19. https://www.discogs.com/master/220809-George-Harrison-Live-In-Japan-With-Eric-Clapton-And-Band
  20. https://www.discogs.com/master/26548-Bee-Gees-One
  21. https://www.discogs.com/release/2635403-Stevie-Nicks-Trouble-In-Shangri-La
  22. https://www.discogs.com/release/2860267-Stevie-Nicks-In-Your-Dreams
  23. How Aerosmith Capped a Tumultuous Period With 'Nine Lives'
  24. 39 ways To Add Space To Your Drumming - DRUM! Magazine
  25. 2 Tom Petty Eras, as Defined by His 2 Drummers
  26. Anything That's Rock 'n' Roll - May 1995 - The Petty Archives
  27. Watch Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers' Electrifying Super Bowl XLII ...
  28. 261 - Steve Ferrone: Making a name for himself - Drummer's Resource
  29. Mike Campbell & The Dirty Knobs
  30. Mike Campbell and The Dirty Knobs play Sound Board in Detroit
  31. Mike Campbell & The Dirty Knobs - 11.Jul.24 - YouTube
  32. THE DIRTY KNOBS - I STILL LOVE YOU After Band Intros & Steve ...
  33. Former Dire Straits Members Unite as 'Dire Straits Legacy' for Tour
  34. Steve Ferrone | Remo
  35. Petty People with Steve Ferrone | South Orange Performing Arts ...
  36. Petty People w/Steve Ferrone Of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers ...
  37. Story of the Song - Ukraine Heart Project
  38. https://www.discogs.com/release/10350805-Steve-Ferrone-It-Up
  39. Steve Ferrone: The Legendary Drummer Behind Tom Petty, Average ...
  40. DO Savannah: 'Me, Myself & Us' concert Series features legendary ...
  41. E101 - Steve Ferrone, Drummer of Tom Petty, Duran Duran, Clapton ...
  42. July | 1986 | The Duran Diaries
  43. Steve Ferrone - The Bob Lefsetz Podcast | iHeart
  44. Steve's Recovery from Knee Surgery - Facebook
  45. Hollywood star honour for Brighton rock drummer and Albion fan ...
  46. Steve Ferrone - Awards - IMDb
  47. https://www.grammy.com/artists/steve-ferrone/2540
  48. Steve Ferrone Receives UK Homecoming | MMR Magazine
  49. Steve Ferrone - SABIAN Cymbals
  50. Questlove (2013) | Red Bull Music Academy
  51. Generation Radio - Official Website
  52. Generation Radio - Caroga Arts Collective
  53. EPK - Petty People
  54. Steve Ferrone of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers with Petty People ...
  55. Steve Ferrone: The Legendary Drummer Behind Tom Petty, Average ...
  56. 'Cake' to Cash: 10 Great Steve Ferrone Tracks - Ultimate Classic Rock
  57. Chaka [Expanded Edition] - Chaka Khan | Releas... | AllMusic
  58. https://www.discogs.com/master/109437-Chaka-Khan-Naughty
  59. https://www.discogs.com/release/206614-Duran-Duran-Notorious
  60. Steve Ferrone | Sessiondays
  61. https://www.discogs.com/release/2333286-Slash-Slash
  62. Stroke 9 Returns with New Album on January 17th - 20 Years After ...
  63. It Up - Steve Ferrone | Album - AllMusic
  64. ‎It Up - Album by Steve Ferrone - Apple Music
  65. Steve Ferrone - WBSS Media
  66. 604 – Steve Ferrone: Made a Name for Himself - Drummer's Resource
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