Send fanmail to: fanmail@frankie-banali.com Frankie, It`s Steve from Maine...... It`s been a long,long while;a couple months after hangin` with you and Kevin in Augusta and Ellsworth in the summer of `05,I had an accident at my work and am now looking at a future in a wheelchair....... But first off,and please forgive me if this hurts to bring up,I am still in major shock over Kevin--I can`t imagine what you`ve been going thru.....We all know how close you guys were and always will be... I`ve heard tribute shows from Ed Trunk and Dee Snider--they did him right,Frankie--if it wasn`t for you guys,our lives,our generation,our music wouldn`t have become as special as they did,and Kevin was the voice,the front-man of this phenomenon called hair metal........ We ALL owe a debt of gratitude to him and I am so very lucky to have met Kevin,to have shared a little of me with him and vice-versa,and to give him the thanks he deserved....... He`s gone for now,Frankie,and it`s only a matter of time til we can all hook up with him again........ Thank you so much,Frankie--Quiet Riot live eternally---we will always make sure of that.... will write back sooner next time........ Hope to hang with you down the road, Steve McGraw Brooklin,ME Steve, So very nice to hear from you but I am so sorry to hear about your accident. I hope and pray that everything will be the best it can possibly be for you. I find comfort in all the great things that have been said about Kevin, may he rest in peace, and also that so many now understand how important he was and still is in my eyes. With Kevin gone so many things are so different now in my life and I will miss his presence in my life. I sincerely hope that you will be well. God Bless, Frankie Hi Frankie. I just saw the post on Sludge about your decision not to auditon new singers for QR. I seriously applaud you. I know some people are bummed, and I know this could not have been something you wanted to face at all, but I think you made the right call. From a musical point of view, it's very difficult to replace a singer - it's easier to replace anyone else in the band. But it's even more difficult - if not impossible - to replace a best friend. I know that for a fact. My best friend was murdered in 2001. (And she's probably already run up to Kevin at God's Jam Session and said "OMG! You're from Quiet Riot! I love you guys!" - or some variation of that, that's how she was in life.) So, where I don't know exactly how you feel (and I've discovered that anyone who tells you they do is totally FOS) I completely understand. BTW - I have photos of you guys from sometime in the mid 90's. I can send you copies if you want them. All my best, Jessica Jessica, Thank you for writing and my sympathies for the loss of your best friend, may she too rest in peace. I appreciate your kind words and thank you also for keeping Kevin in your memories from happier days. Sincerely, Frankie mr.frankie, had the chance to meet you in person ,so glad that kevin had a friend like you . god bless you . had a chance to go on the low dough tour with kevin in 2004. when he was promoting his in for the kill. lucky was i . what a great guy i found him to be .we were on the road and having a good time , he let me hold his necklace and ring ,.i told him i would give him 20.00 for it we had many a laughs i tell you . but the best time was the last night that i got to spend with him . we were at the rock and roll heaven .depew n.y.. after the show he gave me an autograph poster and a big hug . cool ... i tell ya . he was a hell of a guy , i often see the kinda relationship between you and kevin , as i do in my friend mike . he was the guitar player when we went on the low dough tour . had a blast with him , hope that you find some comfort in these lowly words from one rocker to another. god bless him and may he fly high . i will miss him and i will think back often to the chance of running with him . if you ever need a guitarist call mike diatillo. he was awesome and played well with kevin . thank you for allowing me to tell you how much just a chance and fleeting moment in time meant to me . have many great momentos to keep the dream alive ... thank you bruce mong almost the second best drummer kevin ever met...ha ha ha Hi, I'm glad that you had the opportunity to hang out with Kevin and that you were able to see the Kevin I knew best rather than the one a lot of the press insisted on portraying. Thanks for the memories which help in my transition of accepting the loss of my friend. Keep banging your head! Thanks for writing, Frankie B. Frankie, Thank you for all of your time and efforts to keep Quiet Riot's fans informed on everything surrounding the untimely and tragic loss of Kevin. I will never forget Quiet Riot and I appreciate every member for helping me come of age. Your decision not to continue Quiet Riot out of your love and respect for Kevin is admirable. He was too much a part of QR to allow it to go on w/o him. You have been a true friend. I wish you well in all of your future endeavors. Sincerely, Kim Sparks Hi Kim, Thank you for writing, for understanding, for the very kind words, for your continued support and most of all for keeping Kevin's memory in your heart. Sincerely, Frankie Banali Hi Frankie...my name is Jose from Puerto Rico, just want you to know that my first heavy metal cassette was the Quiet Riot Metal Health cause i love Kevin's voice....my respect to you and for kevin's memory, take care my friend and God Bless. Dear Jose, Buenos dias, buenas tardes o buenas noches! My sincere thank you for your years of support of QUIET RIOT and for remembering Kevin's contributions to music history. May Kevin rest in peace and thank you for taking the time to write. Con Dios, Frankie Banali Frankie, I know you have stated that Quiet Riot will not try to go on with another singer and I understand that and respect that. I do understood its still fairly soon after Kevin's death, but is there any chance that you have any unreleased songs or demos that maybe at some later date could be put together and released? I think this would be very cool to all the long time fans of QR and also a nice last tribute to Kevin. Keep Rockin. David David, I have years and years of archived material. If I were to consider such a release I would first have to go through the archives and then would only contemplate this type of venture after consulting Kevin's family out of respect for Kevin's memory and that of his loved ones. Rest in peace KD. Best, Frankie Hello Frankie, How have you been? I'm sorry if I'm disturbing (lol) you or whatever but are you accepting interviews now? Let me know when you do. Your Fan, Aaron Aaron, The answer is the same as before. Best, Frankie How’s it going? It’s Johnny Kelly from Type O Negative. We met a couple of times over the weekend at NAMM. I wanted to write you to tell you that it was great to finally get the chance to meet you. I didn’t get to see you after your set with Harry on Sunday night. I was outside when you guys started and I could tell instantly that you weren’t playing the house kit! It sounded incredible from the street! Great set and the kit was amazing. I checked out the site again and I saw your pics from the convention. Marco and I have been friends since his days at Sam Ash in NYC. I didn’t want to say anything to you while you were out doing your thing but I just wanted to say how sorry I was to hear about Kevin. It was great to talk shop with you. Hope to do it again soon. Johnny Hey Johnny, It was great to finally meet you and great chatting with you at NAMM about what else? Vintage Ludwig Drums! Glad you enjoyed the impromptu and un-rehearsed set at the Kat Club. I really loved playing drums to Billy Sheehan's bass antics. It was a blast even tough I hadn't picked up a pair of drum sticks in nearly three months. And yes, no house drum set for me, instead I brought in the 1975 Ludwig's! LOL! And yes, nothing better than Marco, he's family al the way and from my old neighborhood in Astoria. Thank you for remembering Kevin, God bless him. Please keep in touch! Wishing you all great things in life and drumming! Frankie Dear Frankie, how are you? Te escribo estas letgras desde Barcelona(SPAIN), se que entiendes el español, pues cuando vinisteis a tocar a España, en Barcelona, estuve con vosotros con vosotros en el backstage. QUIET RIOT ha sido, y sigue siendo, la banda sonora de toda mi vida. Sois como mi familia, siempre os he llevado a todas partes, sólo me faltaba conoceros, y lo conseguí. Cuando estuvisteis en Barcelona no me lo podia creer, estuvisteis geniales. Tengo varios discos de vinilo firmados por vosotros, me hice fotos con vosotros y charlamos un rato del concierto y de muúsica. Por eso cuando pasó lo de Kevin no podia creerlo, fue un golpe muy duro, por eso te entiendo perfectamente y puedo tener una pequeña idea de cómo te sientes. Pero tenemos que seguir adelante, por nuestras familias y por Kevin. Espero que algún dia volvamos a vernos, en Barcelona o en USA. Gracias por vuestra música,seguid siempre así and CUM ON FEEL THE NOISE!!!! Vuestro amigo de Barcelona(Spain), RAUL. Querido Raul, My espanol no es mui bueno pero trato. Muchas gracias por escribir tantas perfectas emociones. Se lo agradesco de mi corazon. Que Dios descanse en paz nuestro amigo Kevin DuBrow en la luz de Dios. Sinseramente, Frankie Frankie, I have been a fan since Metal Health came out. I was in high school in Toledo Ohio and to this day I still love playing your album. I still have it on vinyl and it takes me back to a great time in my life. I still use it to work out, party and a little pick me up when I need to get the blood moving. I am in Kansas City now, a fireman here for almost 20 years. I saw you guys with Poison when it was you, Rudy, Carlos and God Rest his Soul, Kevin. You guys in my honest opinion brought down the house. I was so glad to see you all I ran up and had this picture taken. I like to say it is Kevin on my mind!! I miss him and I can never feel the pain you do. I have not lost someone that close to me an I hope your pain gets a little easier with time. Kevin will always be out there...I never think of people as gone...if their soul is loved by so many they will always be with us. God bless you Frankie an I am truly sorry for your loss of such a great friend. Gary Taylor Dear Gary, Thank you so much for taking the time to write and for your support and sincere condolences for the loss of Kevin, may he rest in peace. Be safe on the job and I wish you every good wish. Sincerely, Frankie Banali Hi, Mr. Banali. My name is John Burke, I'm 32 yrs old and have been a Enormous fan of Quiet Riot for about 24 of them. I remember hearing you guys from my back yard playing City Island Harrisburg Pa, but sadly was too young to see you. I later got to see my fist show in 95, then many after. I now drive an entertainer coach that QR leased a few years back, a big long Green and black Van Hool out of Baltimore. I missed getting to drive for you, which would have been a dream for me, but just knowing that Kevin and you may have ridden up front makes me smile. I sometimes look over and pretend Kevin would be sitting there. That is enough for me to imagine and smile. I agree with your decision on the future of QR, there is no substitute. Take care. John Burke Hello John, Thank you for your many kind comments. I'd like to think that for every person that enjoyed QUIET RIOT, each and every one will keep Kevin's memory alive and that of QUIET RIOT as well. May he rest in peace. Sincerely, Frankie Hi Frankie, As a Quiet Riot fan of more that 25 years I respect and totally agree with your decision to not be involved with any reformation of the band. Without Kevin screaming his lungs out and you bashing away behind him it ain't Quiet Riot. I always knew you would be a great guy and you just proved it. Thanks for the great music and memories. Paul. Sydney, Australia. Hi Paul, Thank you for writing from down under! I am glad that you understand my position with regards to QUIET RIOT. Kevin, like him or not, was a one of a kind singer and performer. His presence will forever be missed by me but I have many great memories. God bless Kevin and may he rest in peace. With all good wishes, Frankie Hi Frankie, I was reading your letter to Metal Sludge which is also on the front page of your website. I know what it's like to suffer a loss such as yours. Words can't describe the emptiness or pain you feel inside. My heart goes out to you and Kevin's family. I do have one question for you though.......All of the years you spent with Quiet Riot do you think Kevin would really want you guys to hang it up? Again, these are just my thoughts and I am in no way trying to diminish Kevin's name. Or is it just to painful to even imagine being in Quiet Riot without Kevin? If that is the case I am sure everyone would understand and respect your decision. What ever direction you go, may God Bless you and the talent you were given. Sincerely, Chris Chris, It's very simple to answer your question. I knew Kevin for 27 years, we played together for nearly 26 minus the period from 1989 through 1993 when I rejoined, so all in all a 21 year personal friendship and musical relationship that had it's ups and downs, it's good days and it's bad days and numerous blowouts. The friendship that Kevin and I shared transcended and moved beyond the bad times. This is something I find great comfort in. I can't imagine stepping on stage as QUIET RIOT and not seeing Kevin on stage or hearing his voice singing those songs. It is that simple. Would Kevin have wanted QUIET RIOT to continue without him? The answer is no he would not want it to continue without him and I agree. I will make every effort to stay in the game and if I find that I cannot continue in music, so be it, I've had a great run. Thanks for writing and God Bless, Frankie Hi Frankie! Can i send You a W.A.S.P. CD to sign? I'm a big Fan from You but by now i haven't got a chance to meet You. Best Regards Christian Christian, Thank you for taking the time to write. I have a strict policy of not doing this for many reasons. If I were to say yes to one and no to others it would be unfair and I simply can't meet all the requests that I have received in the past to do this sort of thing. There is also the issue of items getting lost either coming or going and I don't want the responsibility. I hope that you will understand as this has been my position on this for decades. Best regards, Frankie Frankie, after learning about kevins death by various people calling my cell and radio announcing it as well, i fell to pieces myself for roughly 3 days or so. why?, the music is where its always been for me. no sports, no nothin`. just music. a true- rivethead*. through the years i have always enjoyed the music quiet riot put out. and through the years i have traveled here and there to see them play. seeing them in the magazines back in the day was kool,magazines like circus,faces,early metal edge and creem. finally in the mid-80`s, i got my chance to meet kevin dubrow. at a place called "zivkos" in hartford wisconsin. that was wild. i wanted to be a rocker too!. i asked him for advice, and he was super kool with me. after that i got to meet the other members as well and always kept in touch via email through frankie mostly. ive seen the band through the years from milwaukee`s summerfest back in july of 83`, to the last time i saw them in sparta,wisconsin 2007 between them times i seen the band over 30 times in different venues. i took alot of crap from people when quiet riot wasnt the in-thing to listen too. to this day i still get it from people. since metal health came out, to rehab, i have always blasted the music everywhere i went and still do except for the 2 pesky songs (metal health and cum on feel the noize) those got old to me quick and thats all radio here ever still plays. wanna hear a great record? find Blackthorne-afterlife*. lol. the drums are fukin awesome. well anyway, i have many memories of and with the band in my head and in photos. thanks for that frankie*. i cherish stuff like that. to kevin, may god rest your soul. rest in peace!. frankie, whatever you decide to do in the future of your music i will always be behind you* nothin but respect*. and when you play out again?, I WILL BE THERE*,SOMEWHERE. Thanks for everything through the years! you rock. -Jeff (Rockersrevenge). Jeff, Thank you so much for writing, for keeping Kevin's memory alive and for all your years of support. It was always nice to see you and your family when you were able to come to QUIET RIOT shows in your area over the years and this support is what I appreciate most of all. God Bless you and yours, Frankie Hey Frankie, How are you doing? I was wondering if you would ever be interested in doing a Drum Clinic at AARIUS STUDIOS in Sayerville, New Jersey. The studio is right around the corner from Starland Ballroom, and is home to many clinic's from other great artists as well. Think about it, it could make a great DVD. I hope all is well, God Bless you, and your family. Rock ON! Until next time - Joe Penn! Joe, Nice to hear from you. I really have not given much thought to what I will do from this point on. Thank you for the suggestions, I appreciate it. Best, Frankie Dear Mr. Banali, br> Let me state right off the bat, I am a huge QR fan. I am currently about to graduate college and am the music and film critic of my college's newspaper, aspiring to be a professional music critic after graduating. I made sure to post the obituary of the sad passing of Kevin in the school paper. The question I have I am sure other people are wondering as well: Any plans for a tribute show for Kevin? Any possibility for the next Rock Never Stops Tour to be in his honor for all the years of service he put in? I am sure all us fans would love to see his (and your) fellow metal rockers pay their respects in one huge concert. Thanks for the 25 years of kick ass metal! -Adam T. Silva Cape Cod, MA Adam, It's too soon for me to think about or even consider any thoughts of a tribute event. I am still trying to put this tragedy in perspective. Thanks for writing, Frankie Dear Frankie, How are u.I would first like to say how much I love your work over the years(QUIET RIOT,WASP) U are truely amazing.I resently had a chance to see u guys in Atlantic City ,NJ (House of Blues).The show was great but just to get a chance to see & meet u & the great Kevin Dubrow was truely a highlite for me as a long time fan.Its the only time I've seen u guys live & what a trill to get both your autographs & shake your hands.We will always love Kevin for all he has done for rock in the 80s & today.Well I just wanted to tell u how much u both have meant to my life in music & keep on rockin Frankie & RIP KEVIN THE GREAT! THANK YOU, NICK Hi Nick, Thank you for being so kind and for the generous compliments. Last year's Atlantic City show was a fun date for all of us. Kevin and I had a great time just walking around that day and I remember buying him a book on Jimi Hendrix over at one of the outlet books stores that afternoon. Thanks for taking the time to say hello to us that evening and for writing this kind note. And yes, RIP Kevin. Best, Frankie Dear Frankie, First I want to say that I am along time fan of Quiet Riot, as well as others. I am truly sorry for your loss of a close friend and brother of yours. I say brother, because he was your brother. I'm sure it was such a shock to everyone of his passing. But I do feel, as we speak now... He is singing still. He is singing the praises of god as loud as he sang for us on earth. His voice was untouchable. I'm sure he had his struggles in life, but he is now under God and Jesus's arms. I'm sure everyone has tried to give words of comfort. So, I'm sorry for your loss. Please send my condolences to the rest. I was born and raised in Ashtabula Ohio in 1967. I use to listen to my dads music growing up. Artists like...Chubby Checker and Little Richard...the sound of soul as my father would say. His voice too was untouchable to me. He was the loudest in church too...lol....then I got old enough to hear my brothers albums. Musicians such as Kiss, Aerosmith, Jethro Tull, Ted Neggent, Roxy Music and so many more. Including Quiet Riot. What I am getting at is. I do not remember the year. I was wondering if you remembered the year you performed at "The Cove" in Geneva Ohio. I want to say it was 1995 or 1996. The tickets were $24.00 dollars a piece. I was up front right by the stage the whole time. Loving every minute of it. Then, when you all were done performing....I was handed the drum stick. I was so shocked but incredible excited. I even stayed after and you all signed it. That was the best day of my life. So, for that, I'm very thankful. I just wanted to say thank you. I wanted to say that for so many years. Thank you for the drum stick and thank you for so many years of beautiful music. You all are very loved by so many. I do understand, and would feel the same way about not looking for a new lead singer. I would never do that either. He has lived his life and has lived his dream. Keep it alive in your memories, in your hearts and in your minds. Keep it sacred and private to each one of you. But ji will say, so many will believe the tabloids. If some day, you decide this, I would make a movie and produce and direct it myself (not me, I mean you all) to give all his fans what he was all about. The loving person he was. The true storey of Kevin Dubrow. I'm sorry, I don't mean to ramble on. I will let ya go. I just wanted to thank you for the drum stick. To see if you remember your "The Cove" experience in Geneva Ohio. I wish you all the best in life. God bless you all. Hi, I do remember the show at the Cove and I'm pretty sure it was 1995 which were tough times for a rock band on the road. I'm glad that you enjoyed the show and that you were able to get the drum stick and have all of us sign it for you. Thank you also for understanding and agreeing with my position on the future of QUIET RIOT. Please keep our friend Kevin in your thoughts and prayers. He was one of a kind and so very missed. Sincerely, Frankie Mr. Banali, I have been a huge fan and follower of yours for quite some time now, and really appreciate what you're doing with and for music and the drumming community. I was wondering if you might be able to send me a pair of drumsticks that you have used and possibly signed. I realize that you must get a million of these requests every day, but I would really appreciate it if we could work something out. I also realize that you are getting ready to move on away from Quiet Riot, and move on in your life, as they say, and if I am offending you in this request, please just delete my email, and I'll understand. Thank you so much for your time and God Bless. Asa Lane Asa, Thank you for writing and for the kind comments. I am sorry to say that I have a policy of not committing to requests for items as it is impossible for me to keep up with so many requests and it would be unfair to say yes to some and no to others. I hope that you will understand. Best, Frankie Hi Frankie, Happy New Year!I support your decision to not reform QR,while it can be argued that at one time the band did go on without Kevin(as well as yourself)during the late '80s and early '90s it just wouldn't make sense to now....those were different times and very different circumstances! A friend and I are always talking about shows we've seen all those years ago,QR came up and now I'm trying to remember some of the gigs I was at when I was a kid....I'm not sure but did you play L'Amour in Brooklyn when "Metal Health" had just come out(Summer '83)?It might have been a 2 gig weekend. I also think I was at a "Condition Critical" show at a College way out on Long Island(that I think Whitesnake was supposed to play as well....does any of this sound familiar?!) The last time I saw the band was at a minor league ball park in New Jersey with Cheap Trick 4 or 5 years ago....was this the last show for the lineup with Carlos and Rudy?Thanks and hope you're well. Vinnie Messina West Hempstead,NY Hi Vinnie, Happy New Year to you as well and thank you for the support. Yes we did play L'Amour in Brooklyn in 1983 but I don't think we played a college in LI during the Condition tour although Whitesnake were the support for a portion of that tour. I do remember the New Jersey ballpark show with Cheap Trick and that show did include the lineup with Rudy and Carlos. Thanks for writing and take care, Frankie dear frankie, just wanted to leave a quick message to say that i just saw your tribute page to kevin and i think you expressed yourself very well,good job!!!i think kevin deserves all the respect you are giving him.i was at the us festival in 83 and you guys kicked ass!!!i'm so glad i was able to see you guys there it was really special to me.i also met kevin[very breifly] a few years back at a alice cooper concert in las vegas and he was very polite and seemed very genuine.anyway just wanted you to know i appreciate you ,kevin and quiet riot for all the good times i remember with your music as my soundtrack. god bless kevin dubrow and god bless you Mr.Banali thanks for your time, rich mattick Hi Rick, Kevin really was a special person and he did take the time to always chat and usually either brought a smile to another's face or got them just plain laughing. He was a good person and very much missed. God Bless him. Thank you for your very kind words. God Bless, Frankie Frankie, Hey. How are you doing? I had wanted to write you a while back, but I couldn't find the words that I wanted to say. I still don't know if I am sure if this is exactly how I wanted to say it. I have never been that good at things like this. Anyway, I am so sorry to hear about Kevin. He will be missed. My sympathies go out to you and the rest of his family and friends. I wish that I could have made it out to a few of your shows the last couple years, but things just didn't seem to work out. I am just glad that I did have a chance to see you all before that, numerous of times, and got a chance to know all of you just a little. Well, I hope not to be such a stranger anymore. Take care. Vanessa Vanessa, You and everyone have been so very sympathetic about the loss of Kevin and I thank you and all who I hope will continue to keep good thoughts about Kevin. May he rest in peace. Take care, Frankie Frankie, My heart goes out to you and the loss of the amazing Kevin DuBrow. We know this is a huge void in metal, and I can only imagine quite the void for you personally. I read your post about the future of QR, and I have to say good for you. You have always shown respect and dignity in the face of so many things. I can't tell you how much you as a person not just a drummer are a true inspiration. Where we will no longer be able to see QR live, and without Kevin...really, what's the point? We have our memories. I've seen QR 12 times since picking up "Metal Health" in 1983. Every show was awesome, and true. You and the late great John Bonham are the reasons I ever picked up a pair of sticks. I am very pleased to learn you will be attending NAMM this year. I hope to get a chance to share my respect for you in person. Thanks for everything, and please don't stop playing music. I can't wait to hear the future. Best to you, Dan Rutherford Santa Monica, CA Dan, Thank you so much for the very kind words which I appreciate and for understanding how I feel about QUIET RIOT now that Kevin is no longer with us to make it all worthwhile. He was one of a kind and so very much missed that I can't even begin to describe. Thank you for your very long years of support which is something that I also appreciate. Glad to hear that you too are a fan of John Bonham and I hope that you make it to the Ludwig booth and we can meet then. With every good wish in drumming and life, Frankie Frankie, I read your post about the future of Quiet Riot. I just want you to know that I fully respect your decision and I agree with you 100%. Although I will miss seeing you play those songs, it just wouldn't be right without Kevin. Frankie, you are a class act and I wouldn't have expected anything less of you. It's nice to know that someone I've looked up to all these years as my favorite drummer is also a roll model in life. Whatever your next musical adventure is, I'll be out here supporting it. So hit 'em hard and keep making us all proud my friend. Love ya, Brian Butts Hi Brian, Firstly, let me thank you so much for the kind gift of the pinstriped personalized drum stick holder. That is really so kind of you and I truly appreciate the unexpected gift. Thank you for also understanding that there is no way I could step on a stage again as part of QUIET RIOT and not see or hear my friend anymore. God Bless Kevin. Frankie In response to your "re-forming" Quiet Riot comment, I would like to say good for you. Many people do not understand what it is like to lose someone so close to you. I am a soldier in the US Army and also have had that unfortunate experience. It sickens me to see people attempt to use such negativity in a manner that is not truly heartfelt. Angus Young's energy is why I started playing guitar but Quiet Riot is why I have fun with it! I would like to thank all the members of Quiet Riot for that. A true showman will always be missed, Kevin is tops in that area. I am sorry for your loss and my heart goes out to you, his family and those that were close. Embrace your historical experience with pride and let it fuel your future for the immeasurable success you deserve. Take it easy; if it's easy take it twice. Dr. Richard Smith, "The Great" Dear Richard, Thank you for taking the time to write and to understand my position with regards to QUIET RIOT. As far as I am concerned there is no interest in continuing the band without Kevin. I salute you for your work in the US Army and wish you all good things. Be safe. Sincerely, Frankie Hi Frankie, I'd like to start off by saying i totally feel for and with you regarding Kevin's passing.The day i read of it on blabbermouth, i was also on the phone and as i scrolled down and saw the confirmation,i immediatly finished my call,i was speechless and honestly felt a part of my youth die in that very second. I've been a fan since Metal Health and still to this day.my 2 favourite QR cds are Qr3 and QR 1988.I can't thank you enough for the dvd of the last show in Japan, although i believe a Quiet Riot video and rare footage compilation dvd is long overdue :) br> I got to meet you and Kevin personally a few times and both of you were nothing but perfect gentelmen.I know deep down you will follow your heart and do the right thing regarding Quiet Riot and i eagerly await your statement regarding the future. Are you part Italian as well? Gabriele Ciao Gabriele! Thank you for writing and for all the years of support. Kevin's loss is immeasurable and so terribly sad. May God rest his soul. I have already posted my intention as far as QUIET RIOT is concerned at this site. Italian? No. Sicilian? Yes! Ciao Bella, Frankie Hi, Frankie, I got to see Quiet Riot in Greensboro, NC last year, and was so thrilled that I got to meet you and the band. I am trying to become a photographer, and getting to try to take pictures and seeing a great concert was just putting two of my greatest loves together. Also, I have a secret dream of becoming a drummer, and getting to see your solo was just a thrill. I got chills I loved it so much. I was hoping to hear of a tribute tour, but completely understand why you would not want to do so. I, along with countless others, grew up with Quiet Riot and feel a void since Kevin's passing, and was hoping for something. I don't know what...a tour, an album, just something. I was so looking forward to seeing you guys again. So, please forgive anyone for wanting a tour, etc. We mean well. Anyway, I just wanted to thank you for being a type of band that would meet with its fans. The line was huge, and there were no complaints. You all were great sports about everyone...all walks of life, just wanting to chat with you for a few moments. I kidded you about wanting your drum kit, and told Kev that I thought it was cool that he could still rock those spandex pants. :) I hope to see you on tour again, because you bring joy and excitement to peoples life. Keep on rockin'! Tammy Buckner P.S. Love the 24/7/365 album. Love the artwork, too. Hi Tammy, Thank you for writing. The Greensboro show was really wonderful for QUIET RIOT. I remember that both Kevin and I were so happy at the response that we received and we were amazed at the wonderfully long turn out for our meet and greet. A truly wonderful evening. And I know what you mean about loving things that you do and combining into a great experience. Thank you for keeping Kevin alive in your thoughts and I hope I have the opportunity to continue in music and bring some to you! Thank you as well for liking my Zep tribute CD and yes, Jen gave inspiring CD artwork! With every good wish, Frankie Hello Frankie First and foremost I want to get a greeting and express my sorrow for the death of Kevin, Quiet Riot is an important part of my life, I remember when my mother gift the albun Metal Health in 1983, I live in Queretaro, Mexico, and when the band visit the city this past summer, I was one of the most important events of my life, that crei never be able to listen live, I grew up with music, Quiet Riot and see them live was one of the best of my life expericencias and the death of Kevin was extremely painful for me, because I feel that part of my life went. Go on with your career, you are one of the best drummers in the world and was a joy to have seen the band live in my city. Receive a fraternal greeting and please excuse my English Honestly Your friend and fan of Queretaro, Mexico Mario Gonzalez Dear Mario, Thank you so much for your letter which I know comes from your heart. Please know that I appreciate it. Thank you also for the very kind words about Kevin's passing. I appreciate that so very much. He is so very missed in my life. I am happy in knowing that the last three years we had Kevin in our lives and especially last year, he was so happy and singing and performing better than ever. We truly enjoyed our visit to Queretaro, Mexico and what a wonderful city it is. Kevin and I went to the old Spanish part of the city and really enjoyed the food and ourselves. The show that evening was a terrific experience for us and especially meeting so many wonderful fans. I keep that memory alive in my heart. Thank you for all the years of support of QUIET RIOT and I personally thank you for your kind words to me. And "Su Ingles es mejor que mi Espanol!" (Your English is better than my Spanish!) God Bless always, Frankie Banali Hi I just recently discovered QR so I never had the chance to see you guys play in my country(Sweden) before the unfortunate demise of Kevin. It seems like alot of fans(Including me) want you and the rest of the band to continue playing with a new vocalist but from what I can understand in your comments on your website the death of Kevin marks the end of QR. I understand that you're probably still in a period of mourning right now, and i respect that. But I really hope that you will try and continue with QR so that me and other fans can see you guys play live. I know it probably won't be the same thing without Kevin but in my opinion it would be terrible to see the band end in this way. If nothing else, continuing with the band would be a worthy homage to Kevin and the music he created. Sincerly // Fredrik Augustsson - Sweden Dear Fredrik, Firstly, thank you for keeping Kevin's memory alive. Thank you also for taking the time to write from Sweden. I had played Sweden before but not with QUIET RIOT, so I was thrilled for us and especially for Kevin to have had the opportunity to play at the Sweden Rock Festival last summer. Kevin was really a vocal and performance force at that show. I will be making an announcement about the future of QUIET RIOT very soon which should answer everyone's questions. Thank you again for your kind words and support. Sincerely, Frankie Banali Hi Frankie, Like so many, I was deeply saddened to hear the news of Kevin. Reading your recent posts helped me understand what a great relationship you and Kevin had. Because I can't even imagine how much you'll miss him and your fantasic musical "brothership" , I won't attempt to console you. Instead, I thought I would tell you of a time when you and Kevin made some ordinary people very happy. My band has opened for QR twice in the Washington DC area (at Jaxx in Springfield, Virginia). The first time we opened for you, we had the opportunity to meet you all outside after your show. We've opened for other national acts, and quite honestly, some of the bands who never even came close to the stature of Quiet Riot were real jerks. But when we met you and Kevin, you were the nicest, kindest musicians we've ever encountered. It was especially impressive to me because I absolutely have loved your drumming since I first heard you and I'm not ashamed to say that I was a little awe struck when meeting you. But you were totally cool and we talked in-depth about how great Ludwig drums are. Anyway, Kevin commented to our singer how he thought it was excellent to see a local band doing a cover of Humble Pie (the song we did was "Fool for a Pretty Face"). Before you knew it, the two of them were singing Steve Marriot in a parking lot at 2:00 in the morning. I know you've heard it before, and you've commented on it, but we were prepared to learn that Kevin was just another self-absorbed rock star. Nothing could have been further from the truth. He was the most gracious, funny, and interesting person and he was an absolute delight to talk to that night. We were (and still are) very flattered that Kevin and you took the time to talk to a bunch of local rockers with 9-5 day jobs. My only regret since then was not mustering up the courage to ask you to sign my snare drum head. Hopefully, we'll meet again and I'll ask you to do that so I can frame the head and hang it in my listening room. Well, I just wanted to pass on a nice story about you and Kevin and let you know that we're thinking of you. Steve Vollmer PS: The new 24/7/365 sounds awesome. I'm getting one! Hi Steve, Thank you so much for your very kind e-mail and I'm glad that we had the opportunity to chat at Jaxx so long ago! I am so happy that you and the members of your band had the opportunity to see what Kevin was like, not just what the press showed everyone. Kevin did take the time to talk to people and especially so if it was about his favorite subjects Humble Pie and the late great Steve Marriott! You could always count on Kevin to take the time to talk about music as much as I always take the time to talk about Ludwig Drums, and I think your Slingerland kit is really great as well. How could I not get along with you, you like Gene Krupa and John Bonham, 'nuff said right there! I would be very happy to sign your snare drum head should the opportunity present itself. I'm also happy to know that you enjoyed the 24/7/365 samples and hope that you do get the CD. Wishing you and the band greatness for the New Year! Frankie Hi Frankie, My name is John Crispino a.k.a. "Mister C", and I too am a rock drummer living in western Pa. I wanted to drop you a line, letting you know that I appreciate your talent and the way you carry yourself in all the interviews I have seen and read about you. You are always respectful, and conduct yourself with a great deal of class. I truly appreciate that. One thing I do with my drumming is educate kids from the ages 5-12 with my "Mister C" line of materials. Kids always ask me who I listen to and why, and the name Frankie Banali is one of the first to come from my lips. Not only are you a strong drummer, but you seem like a terrific guy. Thanks for being a good representative for us current, and "future" drummers as well. If you have some time, please take a look at my website. It will give you a better idea of what I am doing back here. Best of everything to you Frankie ! Sincerely, John Crispino "Mister C" "No Shoes Studio" Rochester, Pa. 15074 John, Thank you for taking the time to write and for the many kind words which I do appreciate. Thank you also for devoting your time to get young future drummers moving in a positive direction. That is both worthwhile and admirable of you. Wishing you all great beats and grooves! Best, Frankie Hey Frankie, First of all, my most sincere condolences on the loss of Kevin. Having lost some friends and family members myself in the last few years, my thought and prayers are with you. I just wanted to let you know about how I got into Quiet Riot and also give you some thoughts on "Rehab" too. Living in the UK, I was aware of QR but for some reason you guys never got the publicity you deserved over here. So, I got into the band late, kind of retrospectively. And what persuaded me was reading interviews with Kevin from the mid 90s when you guys reunited, to the present. Even though I didn't know the band's music, I was always glad when a magazine or website had an interview with Kevin, first of all because it was great to see a band from the 80s that stuck to its guns in the 90s rather than chasing the grunge trend, and second because in every interview, Kevin came across as a guy with a great sense of humour, just happy to be playing music, big enough to admit he'd made mistakes, and humble about his achievements. As a result of reading those interviews, I started to explore the QR catalog, and I wished I'd paid attention sooner, lol! I love the albums you guys did in the 90s and early 00's; you guys adapted and grew without losing the band's essential character. And then there's "Rehab"! I play in a band that's influenced mainly by 70s and a bit of 80s metal, and I'm always keen to hear albums that blend that classic feel with a heavy, modern production, so that I can play them to the other guys in the band for inspiration. I remember reading interviews with you guys in the run up to "Rehab" coming out, and thinking it would be exactly my cup of tea (being English I have to mention tea at least once!), and on hearing it I was instantly hooked. Great songs, playing and singing, and a timeless, heavy sound. I've been raving about this album to anyone who will listen! I just wanted to say that I read interviews in which you guys said what you were hoping to achieve with this album, and to assure you that you and Kevin did it, in spades. The album stands as a testament to yours & Kevin's love of "our kind of music", and that comes across in the writing and performances on the album. Whatever musical path you follow next, I'm sure there are plenty of us who'll be happy to support you, and we'll never forget Kevin either. All the best Rich Hi Rich! Thank you for keeping Kevin in your thoughts, it is something that I appreciate from the bottom of my heart. Thank you also for rediscovering the music that we created in the 90's and earlier this decade. There are some really nice things that we did during a most difficult time for QUIET RIOT in music. I am really happy that you being British understand what Kevin and I wanted to accomplish and feel that we did accomplished with the material on REHAB. Kevin and I wanted to write and record music that mattered to us and based on our influence by the greatest bands ever to come out of the UK in the late 1960's and into the 1970's. We are really proud of the REHAB record regardless if few understood what we did. You are the exception and you have my gratitude. I wish you all wonderful things possible in life and in music. The next time you have a cup of English tea, raise it in Kevin's memory and later go to a pub and also raise a pint for Kevin as well. Sincerely, Frankie Hi Frankie, I just wanted to say that I am a huge Quiet Riot fan and have been since I was in grade 4. I am now 33 (damn thats a long time). I have got a few stories from a time me and my friend did a puppet show in grade 4, i know it sounds corny but its too funny not to tell. We made these Quiet Riot puppets and we were playing metal health to all our fellow classmates for show and tell.. The looks on their faces were priceless and our teachers.. Our classmates were still listening to the chipmunks and we were listening to Quiet Riot! They must have thought we had delinqwent parents or something.. Til this day I always laugh at that story. As soon as I heard the drums on the intro of metal health I was totally hooked .. From then you played at Rock City(Kingsway Inn) in the early 90's and I wasn't 18 yet but I drove down there and was trying to sneak in to watch you guys but got denied. I drove from out of town to get there and not get in.. Then the next time Quiet Riot came around was maybe in 94' (my memory is bad...it must be the age lol...) and they played at People's Pub and I got a chance to see Quiet Riot for the first time but your weren't playing (I think it was Bobbi Rondionnelli..) It was an amazing show and the loudest concert to this date I have ever been to.. SO LOUD that our drinks were slowly shaking off the table. The next time I finally got to see Quiet Riot with all the original guys and it was at the Thunderdome (EDMONTON) and that was probably 99-2000. Probably the most fun at a bar concert ever and you guys were killer. We were against the side of Carlos and it was completely awesome to see you guys just going crazy. We were Puffin huge clouds of Canadian Green Smoke (No need for a fog machine) to Carlos all night and he just keep turning and smiling every so often. It was great and after the show Kevin was walking around and I got enough guts to go up to and talk to him. I was so nervous to talk to someone that I had really idolized as a kid and when I was talking to him I was almost speachless. But he was very polite and humble and easy to talk to. We chatted for about 5minutes and he told me he was living in Las Vegas etc and just very down to earth. Thats a moment I will never forget. He was a true Rock Legend as is Quiet Riot. Everyone in Quiet Riot are true rock legends from you to Carlos to Rudy. I just thought I would share some of those moments with you as you get through this tough time. God Bless .... Sheldon Hi Sheldon, Thank you for al the years of support that you have shown QUIET RIOT! I am glad you had the opportunity to see the band live as well as experiencing the side of Kevin that few talked about while he was still with us. God Bless Kevin, he is very much missed. Thanks for sharing your wonderful story. God Bless, Frankie Hey Frankie, I just wanted to say my quick condolences for your sudden loss. You have been so kind to all of us in the drumming and fan community over the years and hopefully we can give some back in letting you know how affected we all are. I never got to see your recent show here in Miami because I was gigging out of town. My god do I wish I would've cancelled out and gone to the show. That's life, I guess. We have to savor every moment. Anyway, my day gig is in a local Hospital here in Miami. I am a registered nurse and work with Cancer patients. I am very familiar with loss and grieving through my work and in my personal life, and I know there is no other way to heal from this than to let time do its work. My prayers are with you and all who were close to him. Take care, Julio del Valle Julio, Thank you for your very warm and kind letter and for all you do in your work with Cancer patients. Thank you also for your support which I do appreciate. Please keep Kevin in your thoughts. God Bless, Frankie Hi Frankie, I have been thinking a lot about you over the last couple of months, hoping you are doing O.K.? I didn't even know Kevin and I have been absolutely miserable since his passing. I can't even imagine how you feel! I am so sorry! I just wanted to let you know you are in my thoughts and prayers. Please be strong my friend! Matt Sorbo Charlotte, NC. Matt, Thank you so much for writing and expressing your feelings. There is not a day that goes buy that Kevin is not in my thoughts. We shared so much and spent so much time together that it's only natural that he is my thoughts and he is probably with me right here and right now. At least I like to think so. Take care and thank you again. Frankie Frankie, I almost wasn’t going to send anything because I figured it wouldn’t really matter, but, in the end, I can’t let the moment pass without at least sending you my condolences and best wishes for the future. I don’t know you personally and didn’t know Kevin, but that doesn’t mean that my QR moments, whether they be attending concerts or just having the music playing during some very memorable moments in my isn’t a significant connection. In some ways I think it is. As such, even though I don’t have a personal relationship with the band, this whole thing was personally sad for me in a way that I didn’t really expect. Enough of that though. Thank you for responding to me from time to time over the years and best regards. TAK Fans and friends like you are the significant connection. All of you are the ones that made QUIET RIOT possible for Kevin and I and all the other musicians that participated in the band over the years. That you may not have had a direct personal connection does not make it any less personal or important. I owe you a debt of gratitude for your support and so does QUIET RIOT! Thank you for your kind words. In appreciation, Frankie Hey Frankie, I was a big fan of yours (and the band) back in '83 with Metal Health and have bought each subsequent cd the very day it was released. When you guys came to the Baltimore/DC area, I made it to your shows. Like many people, I had read the stories in the press about Kevin DuBrow, how obnoxious he was, how he ragged on other bands, etc. So wasn't I pleasantly surprised when I got to meet Kevin (and Frankie, and Chuck) and they were all just about the most down-to-earth guys you'd could ever hope to meet. Kevin stood outside the club in Towson, MD for at least an hour or so to sign autographs, which was pretty cool. What was even better though was that he and the other guys from QR just stood around and chatted with the hard-core fans as if we were friends. It made me think that if Kevin really did bad-mouth some bands back in the day, he's certainly a reformed man now. He and all the guys in QR were just regular guys, being friendly and hanging out. I left that night with an even greater level of respect for Quiet Riot. --Chris from Baltimore Chris, Thank you for taking the time to visit, view and write. Thank you also for sharing your memories which I appreciate and find comfort in. Kevin was very special to me and though he could be a handful at times, he also had a big heart and really cared. This was evident in your meeting with Kevin and the band. It has always been my contention that if it were not for the fans there would be no lasting QUIET RIOT and Kevin believed this as well. God rest him. Thanks again, Frankie Frankie, Ingrid and I were just blown away when were heard about Kevin from Inga. We didn't know Kevin really that well but he was extremely kind to us when we met on the 2005 RNS Tour. We will always remember Kevin because of his helping Inga with her development as a lead singer and the times Kevin called Inga to touch base when Eric was ill last year. br> Anyway, Frankie, just wanted to let you know we think of the kindness Kevin has shown our family and will not forget that. Best wishes, Carey & Ingrid (Eric Brittingham's in-laws) Monroe, NC Dear Carey and Ingrid, Thank you so much for taking the time to write. You are two of my favorite people. I can't even begin to express the impact the loss of Kevin has had in my personal life. I think that my tribute page to Kevin touches on a fraction of the emotions I am feeling. daily Kevin was one of a kind, a very special friend to me personally above and beyond our QUIET RIOT connection, and with his passing the emptiness remains. I am glad that you and your family had the opportunity to meet Kevin and see the real person as well as the man singing "Bang Your Head" a song that he loved as I do. God Bless you Kevin and God Bless you Carey, Ingrid and your family. Please give my regards to the singing Ingrid in the family and to Eric as always. Sincerely, Frankie Hi Frankie, Aaron again. Thanks for responding to my message. I'd like to interview one of these times if you can. I'm curious to know and this might be a hard question to answer: Is Quiet Riot over? I'm so angry I didn't get to see QR. You guys were playing last year and it's been hard. Aaron Aaron, I am currently not accepting interviews as I am still trying to accept the loss of my friend. Best, Frankie Frankie: The reason for this e-mail is I had a recent un-expected meeting with Kevin a few months ago in late September and I thought I would share it with you. I had landed at the Las Vegas airport on my way to a convention. My friend and I had to wait in the taxi line which was about an hour long. Those taxi lines are insane. Standing in front of me waiting in the line was Kevin. He was on his cell phone for about half the time in line so I had to wait before saying anything to him. Finally he hung up and when he looked my way I asked him if the band was playing in Vegas and he said no and that he lived in Vegas and was returning home. I then mentioned to him that I couldn't believe that I was running into him in a cab line and he asked why? I said that Quite Riot was the first concert that I had ever been to back when I was a senior in high school in 1983 back in Kansas City and I had skipped school and went and stood in line to buy Quite Riot tickets. He said that skipping school to buy concert tickets is the way it's supposed to be. I then said that that concert and Mental Health inspired me to join a band and ultimately play with several different local bands. He asked me if I was still in a band and I said that although I still play from time to time I am not in a band now but I went on to be a stand up comedian and corporate speaker and I credited him and that first Quite Riot concert for putting the entertainment bug in me. I said that he was some what responsible for the successful career that I continue to have 25 years later. He just smiled and said "Where's the check". It was pretty cool. As we approached the end of the taxi line I said "I know I probably will never be standing with you talking like this again so I would like to say thank you for all of the music that you have made and I hope you keep banging for years to come". He said "I appreciate that and it's always good to hear". He got in his taxi, threw me a wave and that was my brush with Kevin DuBrow. As a comedian I have met some pretty famous people but not one of them had such an impact on my life when I was 18 as Quit Riot and Kevin DuBrow and it was amazing that I happen to stand next to him and speak with him 25 years later and just weeks before he passed away. I read your amazing words on Kevin's MySpace page about how you "Can't Stand what has happened". I lost my father just in 2007 who I was very close to and your words hit home with me. I can tell you that as the initial shock on my fathers passing wore off, I really started to thank about all of the hundreds if not thousands of good times we had together and my "Can't Stand It" mentality was eventually replaced with these timeless memories. Even though it's only been a few months, I hope that you will or have rolled right into those great memories that you and Kevin did share and they have replaced your "Can't Stand It" mentality? I would like to end this with the same thing that I said to Kevin a few months ago "Thank you for all of the music that you have made and I hope that you keep banging for years to come". Keep living the life! Jim Heath a..k.a. Comedian REDHOT Jim, Thank you for sharing such a wonderful story about Kevin and his replies to you were so "Kevin" that it has put a smile on my face. This is the real Kevin, the side of him that most people overlooked either by choice or because his professional personality was bigger than life. This is part of the Kevin I remember best, casual and shooting from the hip. I am slowly crawling on the road to acceptance of what has happened. I have 27 years of memories many of which are very good and very funny to support me. I am so very sorry to hear of the loss of your father in 2007 as well. I know what it feels like having already lost both my parents and now Kevin who played a significant role in half of my personal and professional life. Congratulations on your success and I wish you and yours all the best for the New Year and your future endeavors. Sincerely, Frankie B. Hi Frankie, Just visited your new site; very nice. Love the pix of you behind your Luddies. I was a huge QR fan back in the day; saw you guys play in Market Square Arena (Indianapolis) couple of times. You were a big drumming inspiration to me; you always had a great sound, great look and were absolutely rock solid. Condolences on the passing of your close friend; take care. Jeff Newman Lafayette, IN Hey Jeff, Thank you for keeping Kevin in your thoughts, I appreciate that. Thank you for your compliments to me also as I truly appreciate it. Market Square arena has a very special place in my heart and memory as that was the first ever QUIET RIOT show where we headlined and sold it out with Nazareth as the support act. A great memory and I still have my Northstar hockey jersey given to me that night, white, yellow and green! Wishing you all great things. Frankie Frankie, Like everyone else I want to express my sadness on Kevin's Passing. I was a senior in High School in 1983/1984 and for almost the whole year in my tape deck was Def leppard's Pryomania and Quiet Riot's Metal Health. I have followed your and QR career since then and have all the QR cd's. Upon hearing of Kevin's passing I went back and listen to some of the QR cd's that maybe I never gave a fair shake too such as Down to the Bone and found myself discovering some new gems. Though I never saw QR during your heyday I was honored to see you in columbus Ohio during the Poison tour and also a year or two after that at the Alrosa villa in columbus. Excellent shows. While his passing is terrible I truly hope that people of all ages will learn from Kevin's last mistake and at the same time remember him for the good person and rock star he was. Lots of Kevin's contemparies of the 80's always down play that time but not Kevin, He was proud of what he you guys did and rightly so. Though it may be too early for this I did want to ask one question. Since you and Kevin were together for so long, do you by chance have unreleased recordings of QR that maybe in time will see the light of day? I think that would be a great thing to the fans is to have "one" more album worth of tunes and as a tribute Kevin's legacy. Thank you and I truly hope you find peace and are able to pick up the pieces and be able to play in front of a rocking crowd again in any manner that you choose. Sincerely, David from Ohio David, Thank you for visiting and for remembering Kevin, may he rest in peace. Thank you also for your kind words for QUIET RIOT as well. We always enjoyed playing in Ohio which supported us from our earliest days and we had only just played there a few months before Kevin's passing. Be well, Frankie Dear Frankie, I was just thinking about you on my way home tonight. I live close to the Pensacola fairgrounds, where I had the pleasure of seeing QR back in October of 2006. Every time I drive past the fairgrounds, I think of how much I love, and miss QR. I was also lucky enough to see you in Gulf Shores, Alabama a few months ago, where you signed my 'Headless Children' Songbook. Thank you again! I thought that was pretty neat when you said you'd never seen one before. I will always have a fond memory of that night. Figuring that people probably ask you for drumsticks all the time, I thought I'd give you some drumsticks for a change, just as a gift. I remember explaining that I wasn't a salesperson trying to sell you something. I made a little joke like, "you gotta try these new sticks!", or something like that. Anyway, I saw Kevin flash this ear-to-ear grin as he listened to me joking with you. That image of him smiling will forever be burned in my mind. What a neat guy. I miss him a lot. I know you do too. The latter part of 2007 was rough. I just wanted to wish you the very best in 2008. Like Kevin said in 'Winners Take All', "Time does heal all wounds." We'll never forget him. But I hope the passage of time does makes it easier. You're still in my thoughts and prayers, Frankie. I wish you and your family all the best in 2008. God bless you, and I hope you have a very, very happy new year! -James, Pensacola, FL James, Thank you so much for taking the time to write. I do remember you and signing the song book. As to the drumsticks, I think you might be happy to know that once I realized that they were too light for me, I gave them to Kevin. Why did I give them to Kevin? Kevin started in music as a drummer and then switched to vocals early on. A few years ago for his birthday I bought him a drum set and had it shipped to his house in Las Vegas because I know how much he enjoyed drums, so your sticks went to a good home. I miss him more than anyone will likely know. God Bless him and God bless you. Sincerely, Frankie Frankie, For years I had heard that you were one of the nicest guys in Rock and Roll. You proved it to me on July 14, 2007 at Vernon Hills Fest in Illinois. I'm the sound engineer for the opening band 7th Heaven (www.7thheavenband.com). I was alone backstage and you walked up to me and introduced yourself to me. You made a comment about me being calabrese because my first name is Dino and we talked about areas of Sicily where my family is from.. But what I'm getting at is, when does that really happen? I mean for a headliner to come over to others to introduce themselves and actually to strike up a conversation deeper than just "Hi, I'm Frankie". I probably should have told you this the moment you introduced yourself to me backstage to let you know that I had heard on more than one occasion that you're one of the nicest guys in Rock and Roll. - That you're approachable (so much so that you approached me) and that people really respect you in the music field. I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. I truly enjoyed the show on July 14. Watching from backstage, I could see how you and Kevin communicated with a series of hand gestures and such. You guys really were doing what you loved to do most in life. I heard over and over from people in the crowd how Kevin's voice was absolutely dead on perfect. Ya know, we all give you guys room for error as you get older, we don't expect the same energy and articulation you've given in your younger years in much larger venues. It was indeed a complete treat to see you guys live. You truly won me over and have my complete respect. May the Good Lord bless and keep you my friend. Take care & stay safe, -Dino Manzella BTW: Your discography page ( http://www.frankie-banali.com/discography.html ) has a bunch of broken links. I was hoping to read up on all of the projects that you've been involved with. Ciao Don Manzella, Yes, I do remember meeting you and our chat. Thank you so much for so many kind and generous comments which I appreciate. It only takes a second to say hello and meet someone and I try whenever I can. At the end of the day we are all the same, just people trying to do the best we each can with each of our life. It really was a nice break to speak with you that afternoon. The loss of Kevin on a personal level is indescribable and I miss him more that I can even say. May God Bless him and may he rest in peace. I look forward to seeing him again in my time. And yes, I am aware of the discography problem but I assure everyone that Jen who handles all my art and Website designs will have it resolved at her first opportunity. I've kept her very busy with the revamped FB.Com. I appreciate the feedback very much. Wishing you all wonderful things for you and yours. Frankie Hi Frankie, Wasn't sure if you were aware that your "For The Record" album cover links are not coming up on frankie-banali.com. Glad to see your website back up again. You have a great collection! Chris (drummer in Dayton) Hi Chris, Yes, both Jen (SUPER WEB AND ART DESIGNER) and I know of the problem and it will be remedied once Jen has finished the revamping of the site. She has been working nonstop to get the new site finished and has really outdone herself once again! Thanks for writing, Frankie Hope your having a great NEW YEARS BRO!!! I LOVE YA!!! KEEP DRUMMING DONT EVER FUCKING STOP!! THE METAL WORLD NEEDS YA!! DAVE Dave, Wishing you and yours all great things for 2008. Frankie Hi Frankie, I just wanted to once again thank you and Quiet Riot for playing my small club in upstate NY a few years back. People still tell me it was the best show they ever saw! I think people should know that Kevin sang his heart out and gave my patrons the show of a lifetime. I'll bet it didn’t make any difference if he was in the Madison Square Garden or a small club like mine. Either way, he came to entertain, the only way he knew how...full on! One personal memory I'd like to share was when I showed him the announcement for the show that I placed in the local paper. He read it in front of me and had a big smile on his face. When he finished he looked at me and said, "That was really cool, thanks man". I'm glad he got to see how much Quiet Riot impacted my life at just the right time. I've been bangin' my head ever since! My job now is to introduce this music to my own son...and the circle continues! Rest in peace, Kevin. Keep on rockin', Frankie. Thanks again. Peace and love- Josh Clement Saranac Lake, NY Dear Josh, Thank you so much for sharing such a nice memory and for putting a smile on Kevin's face that day. You had the opportunity to see a side of Kevin that I saw each time we were together. God Bless him and may he rest in peace. Frankie Hi Frankie! News of Kevin DuBrow's death was very painful for me. I don't believe it. I wanna in order that this was a bad dream:( Please accept my sincere condolences. Kevin was a great singer and He will stay in my memory. Frankie. I have one question about Quiet Riot. What now? I know, that QR without Kevin isn't true QR, but did you think to join new vocalist? I think, that Paul Shortimo will be good choice, because He sang in QR in 1988. Frank, this is only my opinion. I would want in order that Quiet Riot still play:) I'm sorry for mistakes in text, but I don't know well English. I'm 17 years old, I born and I live in Poland and I learnt English at the school. I think, that you understand me:) Your fan, Matthew Hi Matthew, Thank you for your kind words about Kevin and I am so sorry that playing in Poland with QUIET RIOT is not a reality now that Kevin has passed. We had great hopes and dreams for the future. Your English is wonderful and thank you for writing. Sincerely, Frankie Happy New Year Frankie, I love the new look on the site and the picture of you with the red sparkle kit is awesome. I didn't know you had a red sparkle. Todd helped me get a red glass glitter kit made a few months ago and I love it. I'll send you some pictures. Anyway, just wanted to say hi and hope all is going well. I had something made for you for Christmas that I think you will enjoy and I need to get it to you. Let me know where so I can get it sent out, I'm excited for you to see it. I called but I know you've been extremely busy. Take care and I hope 2008 is fantastic for you and your family. Sincerely, Brian Butts Brian, I always appreciate you writing and I wish you and your family all great things for the New Year. Yes that is my 70's Ludwig red sparkle kit which I used a few months ago for a session for a Flamenco artist from Spain. I look forward to seeing your red Ludwig's as well. I will send you a mailing address privately and thank you so much for your kindness always. Frankie Hi Frankie, Its good to have you back and see the site running again. I could go on & on about what an icon Kevin was. But, I know you will carry the torch for Kevin. And do it better than anyone else could -- just like Kevin did for Randy. Just know that myself and countless other fans will continue to follow your career, whatever you decide to do. God Bless, brother. Best wishes to you in 2008. -James James, Thank you so much for keeping Kevin in your thoughts and for your kind words. I really appreciate your support and time will tell where I go from here. Sincerely, Frankie Hi, Frankie.I'writing from Argentina an dvery sad for what hapenned whit Kevin. Maybe is a bad moment, but I would like to answer if QR will be playing.I'M sure that Kevin never would alowed that the band stop existing for huis cause. Like we said in our country: Pone huevos.Show must go on!!! Thank you for writing from Argentina. I am so sorry that QUIET RIOT did not get the opportunity to play in Argentina again. I will always respect and honor my friend Kevin and may he rest in peace. Wishing you all good things, Frankie Frankie, I am very pleased to see your site up and running again. I have always enjoyed stopping by. I really enjoyed the last time I saw QR, it was in Sault Ste Marie Michigan. I am so sorry for your loss and wish you all the best in the days and years to come. Stay strong and take care! Todd in Detroit Hi Todd, Thanks for coming back to FB.Com which I appreciate. Please keep good thoughts of Kevin who I will forever miss in my life. Best, Frankie Hi Frankie, Glad to see your site back up again. I really liked you tribute to Kevin. I've sent you a message on MySpace. I don't use my real picture just for safety so that's why you see a picture of Jim Morrison! If you haven't read my MySpace message, I just sent it a few minutes ago. Talk to you later. Your fan, Aaron Aaron, Thank you for visiting and for taking the time to view my very personal tribute to my friend. Wishing you many great things. Frankie Frankie, How are you lately? Just stopping by and checking up on you to make sure your pulling through your dear friend Kevin’s passing? I miss you Frankie. I am assuming you will not be at NAMM this Jan. right? I don’t blame you. Well if you are going to be there, count on me finding you and saying hi with open arms for a BIG hug my friend. Drumming yours, Mike Semerau Mike, I will attend NAMM on Saturday only for my Ludwig Drums autograph session. I hope to see you there and thank you for your kind words which I appreciate. Frankie HOME|FANS|DISCOGRAPHY|DRUMS|ARCHIVES