Complete List Of Quiet Riot Band Members

Feature Photo: Fish123321, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Quiet Riot is an American heavy metal band that originated in Los Angeles, California, in 1973. The band was one of the pioneers of the 1980s glam metal scene and gained significant attention with their breakout album Metal Health (1983), which became the first heavy metal album to reach No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart. Over the years, Quiet Riot has undergone numerous lineup changes but has remained active in the rock scene, releasing albums such as Condition Critical (1984) and Road Rage (2017). The band has seen both periods of commercial success and challenging times, particularly after the death of their original lead vocalist, Kevin DuBrow, in 2007. Despite the fluctuations in membership, Quiet Riot has consistently maintained a strong presence in the rock and metal community, known for their energetic live shows and hits like “Cum On Feel the Noize” and “Metal Health.”

Quiet Riot’s sound is largely defined by its early contributions to the metal genre, combining elements of glam rock, hard rock, and traditional heavy metal. Their success peaked in the 1980s, but they have continued to perform and record music through the decades. After multiple breakups and changes in the lineup, the band has managed to remain relevant, with newer members continuing the legacy of the original members. They have also faced challenges, including lineup changes, personal losses, and the untimely death of DuBrow. Despite these challenges, Quiet Riot’s influence on the metal genre and their fanbase remains significant.

The members of Quiet Riot have each contributed to the band’s musical evolution and success. With their varied experiences, these musicians have helped shape the band’s distinctive sound, both during their initial rise to fame and in the years since. Below is a detailed account of each current and former member of Quiet Riot.

Rudy Sarzo

Rudy Sarzo is one of the most iconic bassists in the history of heavy metal, known for his work with Quiet Riot as well as his stints with Ozzy Osbourne and Dio. Sarzo first joined Quiet Riot in 1978 and was with the band during their rise to fame, contributing to the groundbreaking album Metal Health (1983). His bass work was a critical component of the band’s success, providing the foundation for the heavy, melodic sound that helped define the genre. Sarzo left the band in 1985 but returned in 1987, staying until 1997. After a break, he rejoined the band again in 2003, contributing to several albums, including Alive and Well (1999), Guilty Pleasures (2001), and Quiet Riot 10 (2014). Sarzo’s deep musical experience and distinctive bass playing have made him an essential part of the band’s sound. In 2021, Sarzo returned once again, continuing his legacy with the band.

Alex Grossi

Alex Grossi became the guitarist for Quiet Riot in 2004 and has been a consistent member since his return in 2010. He played a significant role in the band’s revitalization, contributing to albums like Rehab (2006) and Quiet Riot 10 (2014). Grossi’s guitar playing brought a modern edge to the band’s sound while maintaining the core heavy metal style that made Quiet Riot famous. He also played on Road Rage (2017) and Hollywood Cowboys (2019), contributing to the band’s ongoing evolution. Grossi has been a key part of the band’s live performances, delivering energetic and technically proficient solos that have become a defining feature of their later work.

Jizzy Pearl

Jizzy Pearl joined Quiet Riot as lead vocalist in 2013 and remained with the band until 2016. He brought a distinctive voice to the band, contributing to their sound on Quiet Riot 10 (2014). After his initial departure, Pearl rejoined the band in 2019 and has continued as the lead vocalist. His vocals helped shape the band’s sound during both periods, offering a unique blend of hard rock and glam metal influences. Before his time with Quiet Riot, Pearl was known for his work with Love/Hate and has had a successful solo career. His time with Quiet Riot has cemented his place as a key member of the band’s recent lineup, contributing both in the studio and on stage.

Johnny Kelly

Johnny Kelly joined Quiet Riot in 2019 as their drummer, initially performing as a touring member before becoming a full-time member in 2020. Kelly replaced Frankie Banali, who passed away in 2020, and brought his experience as a seasoned drummer to the band. Kelly had previously played with bands like Type O Negative and Danzig, and his drumming style was a welcome addition to the band’s rhythm section. Though he did not contribute to any studio albums during his early time with Quiet Riot, Kelly has been an important part of the band’s live shows, helping to maintain the energy and precision that defines their performances. His experience with other prominent metal acts has helped shape his drumming style in Quiet Riot’s later years.

Kevin DuBrow

Kevin DuBrow was the founding lead vocalist of Quiet Riot, with his tenure spanning from 1975 to 1979, and then from 1982 to 1987, 1991 to 2003, and again from 2004 until his untimely death in 2007. DuBrow was integral to the band’s success, especially with the release of Metal Health (1983), which became the first heavy metal album to hit No. 1 on the Billboard 200. His distinctive voice was the defining feature of all of Quiet Riot’s major albums, including Condition Critical (1984) and Guilty Pleasures (2001). DuBrow also contributed occasional guitar work, though his primary focus was as the frontman. His death in 2007 left a significant void in the band, but his impact on Quiet Riot’s legacy remains unparalleled.

Drew Forsyth

Drew Forsyth was the drummer for Quiet Riot from its inception in 1975 until 1979. Forsyth played on the band’s early albums, Quiet Riot (1978) and Quiet Riot II (1979). His drumming contributed to the band’s foundational hard rock sound, which would later evolve into the glam metal style that the band became famous for. Forsyth’s time with the band was brief, and after leaving Quiet Riot, he did not continue with high-profile projects. However, his contributions to Quiet Riot’s early recordings have made him a key part of their history.

Randy Rhoads

Randy Rhoads was the original guitarist for Quiet Riot, joining the band in 1975 and remaining with them until 1979. Rhoads’ time with Quiet Riot was short-lived, but his contributions were essential in shaping the early sound of the band. He played on the band’s first two albums, Quiet Riot (1978) and Quiet Riot II (1979), before leaving to join Ozzy Osbourne’s band, where he would go on to become one of the most influential guitarists in rock history. Rhoads’ innovative guitar work and his role in Quiet Riot’s early years are an essential part of the band’s legacy, and his tragic death in a plane crash in 1982 further cemented his legendary status.

Kelly Garni

Kelly Garni was the original bassist for Quiet Riot, joining the band in 1975 and playing until 1978. He contributed to the early sound of the band on their first two albums, Quiet Riot (1978) and Quiet Riot II (1979). Garni’s bass lines provided a solid foundation for the band’s hard rock style during these early recordings. After leaving Quiet Riot in 1978, Garni did not pursue any major projects and largely stayed out of the public eye. Despite his brief tenure with the band, Garni remains an integral part of their history.

Greg Leon

Greg Leon was the guitarist for Quiet Riot from 1979 to 1982. He replaced Randy Rhoads and contributed to the band during their transitional period before they achieved mainstream success. Leon played on the band’s demo recordings, but his time with the band did not result in a major studio album. Despite this, he is an important part of the band’s early lineup. After leaving Quiet Riot in 1982, Leon did not remain with high-profile musical projects, though he continued to be involved in music for some years. His contribution to the band’s sound helped pave the way for the arrival of Carlos Cavazo.

Gary Van Dyke

Gary Van Dyke joined Quiet Riot in 1980 as the bassist, replacing Kelly Garni. He played on the band’s recordings during a period of transition, including on the Quiet Riot III album (1983), though he was not with the band long enough to contribute significantly to their commercial success. Van Dyke left the band in 1982, and after his departure, Quiet Riot went on to greater fame with the lineup that included Rudy Sarzo on bass. Van Dyke’s time with the band was short-lived, and he did not play a major role in their legacy.

Carlos Cavazo

Carlos Cavazo joined Quiet Riot in 1982, shortly before the band’s breakthrough with Metal Health (1983). Cavazo played on many of the band’s most iconic albums, including Condition Critical (1984), QR III (1986), and Live & Rare Volume 1 (2005). His guitar work, particularly on tracks like “Metal Health” and “Cum On Feel the Noize,” helped define the band’s sound and contributed to their commercial success in the 1980s. Cavazo was with the band until 1989, left for a period, and returned in 1991, playing until 2003. He was instrumental in both their early success and their return in the 1990s. Cavazo’s tenure with Quiet Riot made him one of the band’s longest-serving members. After leaving, Cavazo pursued work with other bands, including a notable tenure with RATT in the late 2000s.

Frankie Banali

Frankie Banali was the drummer for Quiet Riot from 1982 to 1989, then again from 1993 to 2003, and from 2004 to 2020. Banali’s drumming was a key element of Quiet Riot’s sound, particularly on albums like Metal Health (1983) and Condition Critical (1984). His heavy, driving rhythms contributed to the band’s distinctive style, and his work on tracks like “Cum On Feel the Noize” became iconic. Banali played a central role in the band’s success throughout the 1980s and 1990s. After a hiatus, Banali returned to the band in 2004, contributing to several more albums. He continued to perform with Quiet Riot until his death in 2020. Banali is remembered as one of the great drummers in heavy metal history, and his work with Quiet Riot was central to the band’s identity.

Kjell Benner

Kjell Benner briefly served as the bassist for Quiet Riot in 1985. His contributions to the band were limited, and he played during a time of transition for the band. Benner did not appear on any major studio albums, and his tenure with the band was very short-lived. He is primarily known for his brief involvement during a period of lineup changes. After leaving the band, Benner did not achieve the same level of recognition as other former members, and his time with Quiet Riot remains a minor chapter in the band’s history.

Chuck Wright

Chuck Wright played bass and provided backing vocals for Quiet Riot during several periods: 1985 to 1987, 1994 to 1997, 2004 to 2006, and 2006 to 2007. He made significant contributions to the band’s sound during his time with them, especially on albums like Metal Health (1983), where he played on two tracks, and QR III (1986). Wright’s bass playing was a critical part of the band’s rhythm section, and his backing vocals helped to add depth to the band’s overall sound. He also contributed to Live & Rare Volume 1 (2005) and Quiet Riot 10 (2014), continuing to work with the band well into their later years. Wright has played with several other bands and has a varied musical career beyond Quiet Riot.

Paul Shortino

Paul Shortino was the lead vocalist for Quiet Riot from 1987 to 1989, replacing Kevin DuBrow after his first departure. Shortino’s time with the band resulted in the album QR (1988), and he also performed on ’89 Live in Japan (2004). Shortino’s vocal style brought a different flavor to the band’s sound, but his time with the group was short-lived. He left in 1989 as DuBrow rejoined the band. Shortino continued his career in music, fronting the band Rough Cutt and working as a solo artist. His brief time with Quiet Riot remains part of the band’s diverse history.

Sean McNabb

Sean McNabb played bass and provided backing vocals for Quiet Riot from 1987 to 1989 and again in 2006. McNabb’s contributions were part of the band’s transition in sound during the late 1980s and early 1990s. He played on the album QR (1988) and provided the band’s rhythm section during a challenging time for the group. McNabb’s tenure with the band was brief but important, as he helped maintain the band’s presence during a period of lineup changes. After leaving Quiet Riot, McNabb went on to work with other bands, including Great White and Dokken, and has had a successful career in both music and acting.

Kenny Hillery

Kenny Hillery was the bassist for Quiet Riot from 1991 to 1994, contributing to the album Terrified (1993). Hillery’s bass playing was an essential part of the band’s sound during this period, helping to anchor the rhythm section on tracks from Terrified, which marked the band’s return to the spotlight after several lineup changes. His time with the band was cut short due to his tragic death in 1996. Hillery’s contributions to Terrified remain an important part of Quiet Riot’s history, and his untimely passing left a gap in the band’s lineup during a time of transition.

Pat Ashby

Pat Ashby was a drummer who briefly played with Quiet Riot in 1991. His contributions to the band were limited, as he only performed with the band for a short period, without being featured on any major studio releases. Despite his brief tenure, Ashby’s time with Quiet Riot was part of a turbulent period for the band as they underwent several lineup changes. His departure was followed by Bobby Rondinelli taking over on drums, with Ashby’s time with the band remaining a minor chapter in Quiet Riot’s history.

Bobby Rondinelli

Bobby Rondinelli was the drummer for Quiet Riot from 1991 to 1993 and played on the Terrified (1993) album. Rondinelli brought a solid and energetic drumming style to the band during a period of reinvention and change. His drumming contributed to the harder, more aggressive sound of Terrified, helping to give the album its powerful, driving rhythm. Prior to Quiet Riot, Rondinelli had worked with several other high-profile acts, including Rainbow and Black Sabbath. After leaving Quiet Riot, he continued his career in music, playing with bands such as Blue Öyster Cult and Manowar.

Matt Littell

Matt Littell was the bassist for Quiet Riot in 1995, playing on the album Down to the Bone (1995). Littell’s time with the band was brief, and his contribution to Down to the Bone was part of the band’s effort to explore a more hard rock sound during a transitional period. Though Littell’s tenure with Quiet Riot was short, his bass lines were integral to the band’s rhythm section during that time. After leaving the band, Littell did not continue with any major music projects in the public eye.

Bjorn Englen

Bjorn Englen was a bassist who briefly played with Quiet Riot in 1995. His time with the band was brief, and he did not contribute to any major studio albums. Englen is known for his work in other projects, but his involvement with Quiet Riot was limited to a short period. After his departure from Quiet Riot, Englen went on to work with other acts in the hard rock and metal scenes, continuing his musical career outside of the band.

Ty Westerhoff

Ty Westerhoff was a guitarist for Quiet Riot from 2005 to 2006. He joined the band during a period of transition, contributing to the band’s sound during their brief time of experimentation. Although he was part of the lineup during this period, Westerhoff’s time with Quiet Riot did not result in any major studio releases. His contribution to the band was limited, and he left after a year. Westerhoff’s brief tenure marked an era of lineup changes and experimentation within the band.

Tracii Guns

Tracii Guns joined Quiet Riot as a guitarist from 2005 to 2006. Known for his work with L.A. Guns, Guns brought his distinctive style to Quiet Riot during this transitional period. His time with the band was part of a brief collaboration that did not produce any major albums but added a new dimension to their sound during live performances. After leaving Quiet Riot, Guns returned to focus on his work with L.A. Guns, where he continued to influence the glam metal and hard rock scenes.

Neil Citron

Neil Citron was a session guitarist for Quiet Riot in 2006, contributing to the album Rehab (2006). Citron’s contributions were limited to a few tracks on the album, but his guitar work added depth to the band’s sound. Citron’s time with Quiet Riot was brief, and he did not remain a permanent member of the band. He continued to work in the music industry as a session musician, collaborating with various artists in rock and metal.

Tony Franklin

Tony Franklin briefly played bass for Quiet Riot in 2006. His time with the band was part of their evolving lineup during this period of change. Franklin is known for his work with other high-profile bands such as The Firm and Blue Murder. Though his time with Quiet Riot was short, Franklin’s bass playing brought a new layer to the band’s rhythm section, helping to maintain the energy of their live performances during that time.

Billy Morris

Billy Morris was a guitarist for Quiet Riot in 2006, contributing to the band’s performances during a time of lineup changes. His guitar work was a part of the band’s efforts to refresh their sound during a transitional period. Morris did not contribute to any major studio albums with the band, and after his time with Quiet Riot, he continued his career in music, primarily as a live performer and songwriter.

Steve Fister

Steve Fister was a guitarist who played with Quiet Riot during an unspecified period, contributing to the band’s sound during a time of change. Fister’s work with the band was part of their evolving lineup, but his contributions were more associated with their live performances than studio recordings. After his time with Quiet Riot, Fister continued his career, focusing on his solo work and other musical projects in the rock genre.

Mark Huff

Mark Huff was the lead vocalist for Quiet Riot from 2010 to 2012. Huff’s vocals were part of the band’s efforts to continue following the passing of original frontman Kevin DuBrow. His time with the band was marked by his contributions to live shows and the band’s ongoing performances. However, Huff did not remain with the band long-term, and after leaving, he continued his work in the music industry, performing in various rock acts.

Keith St. John

Keith St. John served as the lead vocalist for Quiet Riot in 2012. St. John, known for his work with Montrose and Burning Rain, brought his powerful voice to the band during a period of transition. Though he did not contribute to any studio albums, his time with the band was part of Quiet Riot’s effort to keep performing and touring after the death of DuBrow. After leaving the band, St. John continued to work with other bands and in his solo career.

Scott Vokoun

Scott Vokoun was the lead vocalist for Quiet Riot from 2012 to 2013. Vokoun’s time with the band was part of the group’s ongoing efforts to perform and record after Kevin DuBrow’s passing. Although his tenure with the band was brief, he helped maintain Quiet Riot’s presence during live performances. After leaving the band, Vokoun continued to pursue his career as a vocalist and performer in various musical projects.

Seann Nicols

Seann Nicols joined Quiet Riot as the lead vocalist in 2016 and performed with the band until 2017. Nicols contributed to the band’s single “The Seeker” (2017), which showcased his vocal style and the band’s evolving sound. Nicols had previously worked with bands like Adler’s Appetite and was known for his hard rock vocals. After leaving Quiet Riot, Nicols continued to work on various musical projects and collaborations in the rock genre.

James Durbin

James Durbin was the lead vocalist for Quiet Riot from 2017 to 2019. Durbin, known for his time on American Idol, joined the band and contributed to albums like Road Rage (2017), One Night in Milan (2019), and Hollywood Cowboys (2019). Durbin’s powerful and melodic voice brought a new dimension to Quiet Riot’s sound, particularly on their more recent work. After leaving the band in 2019, Durbin continued to pursue his solo career, releasing music and performing in various rock acts.

Mike Dupke

Mike Dupke joined Quiet Riot as the drummer in 2019 and contributed to the band’s live performances. Dupke, known for his work with bands like W.A.S.P., brought his drumming expertise to Quiet Riot during a period of transition. Although Dupke did not appear on any major studio albums, his presence helped maintain the band’s rhythm section during their tours. Dupke’s time with the band marked a chapter in their ongoing legacy, but he left after a short period.