Roxy Petrucci has been rockin' since birth. Ditching academics for drums at a young age, she has beaten the skins for outstanding groups such as Madam X, Vixen, and Titania. Over the years, she has toured with some legendary bands, including Bon Jovi, Aerosmith, KISS, and Ozzy Osbourne. Currently, she has hooked up with Lorraine Lewis to form the ultrachick rock group Roktopuss. I was able to get the low down on her as a musician and see what she’s been up to lately.
You grew up in a family full of musicians. Have they always supported your decision to drop the clarinet and pick up the sticks?
Roxy: I've kept up on the clarinet because one day I'll be tootin' in a symphony somewhere. But yeah, my father was a little disappointed that I didn't continue with my classical studies, but I think deep down he knew I was headed for the rock arenas. How could he not...I was going to orchestra rehearsals with BLACK SABBATH embroidered on my pants and beating the shit out of my drums when I practiced at home. I thought about rock n roll constantly.
How has your classical training influenced you as a drummer for a rock band?
Roxy: My jazz lessons actually helped shape my rock drumming. I learned to incorporate syncopation and different feels to the music.
Rock music has changed so much over the years, from hair metal to emo. How do you feel about the progression?
Roxy: Some of the music I really dig, others I just don't get. I need to hear melody and it has to move me. I listen to funk, jazz, big band, rock and metal...I love music!
How have the changes influenced you and the music you make?
Roxy: Jamming with so many musicians over the years since Vixen has helped improve my playing and discipline. I'm still old school but change and growth is inevitable. I try to keep an open mind but when I'm playing rock it better fuckin' RRRRRRRRROCK!
If you could have your dream concert with your top three favorite bands playing, which ones would you chose?
Roxy: Led Zeppelin with Bonham, Black Sabbath (original members) and Judas Priest! Opening the show would be Megadeth, Accept and Madam X with extra special guest Roktopuss!
Which band or bands would you love to play drums for?
Roxy: Hmm, well I loved playing with Madam X and Vixen, now Roktopuss has got my groove on...so the answer is I'm digging my own shit at the moment. The long list of bands I grew up with can be my fantasy gigs. It's always better when you fantasize!
What do you think is the best part about playing live?
Roxy: Everything from the crowd singing your tunes to the sticks breaking, the sweat, the sound of my kick and snare slamming through the P.A. and just being on stage cranking out tunes that you dig.
You've toured all over the world. Which country rocked the most?
Roxy: Wow, well let me say this...when you hear thousands of fans screaming and headbanging, it doesn't matter which country I'm in. They all rocked hard!
You have all this music industry experience. What advice would you give for an up-and-coming new to the scene artist or band trying to get their message/music out to the masses?
Roxy: Myspace is a good vehicle. Get out there on stage and play for as many people as you can. The band will get tight and you'll grow as players and writers. If you’re chasing a record deal...well good luck! It's a whole different scene and the bands that get noticed are the ones making the most noise. Focus on developing your own signature sound and write some good songs.
What would you say to readers new to you and your music?
Roxy: Fresh rock with melody and teeth! Give it a listen and give me your feedback. (http://www.myspace.com/roxypetrucci)
Thank you for your time and good luck in all you do.
Roxy: Right On!
