Frankie was an outstanding human being. I got to design a set of finishes for one of his kits he had housed at Red Samurai Studios (Frankie's production and studio name). He was honest, friendly, and gave you his complete attention. On top of that, I found it an honor to work creatively on something so special to him; and to do it with his willingness to be so completely open when I asked him the question, "Tell me about 'YOU'." the question I ask every celebrity drummer I work with. You've a very special honor Donn
My brush with Frankie was at the Holiday Inn of Dayton, Ohio in '83. The Quiet Riot Band had played that evening at Dayton Hara Arena and came into the lounge afterwards for a few drinks. I was playing drums in a Top 40 band there and out in the lobby he tried to pick up my then girlfriend (now my wife of 35 years). She said "No, I don't think so. I'm with the other drummer here" lol
Rudy Sarzo tells a great story about seeing Frankie play for the first time. His band (at the time) was opening for David Bowie in Florida-I think Ziggy Stardust tour. Anyway, Frankie blew him away and he ended up talking to him in a bar, later. When Frankie told Rudy what band he was in, Rudy hadn’t recognized him and said ‘Yeah, your drummer is great!’ 😂
I met Frankie at a gig. We played a place called the Boathouse in Myrtle Beach South Carolina. We played after Quiot Riot. I’ll never forget him pulling me off the drums in between songs and called me to the front of the stage. He said he had to go but he rarely sees a drummer like me anymore and to never stop. Id like to purchase one of his items.
