Liberty DeVitto & the Ultimate Billy Joel Playlist: Classic Hits, Deep Cuts & Untold Stories

This week, I’m joined by Liberty DeVitto, longtime drummer for the Billy Joel Band and a founding member of The Lords of 52nd Street, to help co-curate the ultimate Billy Joel playlist — and to dig into the stories behind the songs that defined a generation.

From massive radio staples to overlooked album cuts, Liberty takes us inside the writing, recording, and arranging of Billy Joel’s catalog, sharing firsthand memories from both the studio and the stage. We talk about life on the road, including the band’s historic 1987 tour of the Soviet Union, the evolution of Joel’s live sound, and what it was really like playing some of the most iconic songs in rock history night after night.

Along the way, Liberty reflects on his work beyond Billy Joel — collaborating with artists like John Hiatt, Paul McCartney, and more — and how those experiences shaped his approach as a drummer. Tune in for a rare, behind-the-scenes look at one of the most enduring catalogs in American music.

🎙️ Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform—and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review to help more music fans find the show! Then, scroll down to hear all of the songs discussed in this episode! 👇