Rick Vittallo

"Everybody wants to rule the world" by The Rick Vittallo band. 

Rule the World | Rick Vittallo Rule the World by Rick Vittallo, Jazz music from Malibu, CA on ReverbNation

International press release 2025:
“WHO IS
RICK VITTALLO”

Rick Vittallo is a highly accomplished and versatile musician, particularly renowned as a guitarist, vocalist, composer, arranger, conductor, and educator. Based on available biographical details, professional achievements, and descriptions from industry sources, he is consistently portrayed as a world-class talent with exceptional skills, a unique style, and the ability to captivate audiences through electrifying performances. Here’s a breakdown of his strengths and reputation as a musician:
Career Highlights and Achievements
• Early Foundations and Prodigy Status: Born in Chicago to a musical family (his father, Rick Verde, was a legendary guitarist with The Three Suns, known for their multi-million-selling gold record “Twilight Time”), Vittallo showed prodigious talent from a young age. He studied classical guitar from age 9 to 16 under Master Richard Pick at the Chicago School of Music. He later moved to Los Angeles in the 1970s to attend the Dick Grove School of Music, where his first professional role was as musical director for Buddy Greco.
• Collaborations and Performances: Over decades, he has worked with numerous renowned artists and bands, spanning genres like jazz, rock, pop, Latin, country, and classical. Notable collaborations include Frank Sinatra, Engelbert Humperdinck (as conductor), Buddy Greco, Connie Stevens (as musical director and vocalist), Bill Champlin, Gregg Allman, Frank Stallone, Mindi Abair, Max Weinberg, and Al B Sure. He has conducted for major orchestras such as the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Chicago Symphony, and Melbourne Symphony, and performed guitar solos with the London Philharmonic alongside Humperdinck. In the 1990s, he played Frankenstein in the “Beetlejuice Graveyard R***e” at Universal Studios Hollywood, combining guitar, vocals, and dance in live shows. He also contributed musically to TV shows like Frasier (10 years) and News Radio (6 years).
• Current Work: He leads his own 10-piece band, records solo projects (including a latest album in progress), and performs featured spots with top industry figures. He is based in Los Angeles and remains active in live concerts and studio work.
• Awards and Recognition: Grammy-nominated (likely tied to Latin jazz projects, such as work with Susie Hansen’s band, where albums received nods for best new releases). He is involved in the Las Vegas Jazz Society as a board member and performs regularly in jazz venues.
• Innovations and Education: Inventor of the “Vittallo Caged Guitar Method,” an innovative teaching system he has used to instruct students for over 40 years. He emphasizes practical skills like arranging, conducting, and ensemble playing, drawing from his real-world experience.
Skill Level and Reputation
• Technical Proficiency: Described as a “musical prodigy” and “state-of-the-art” guitarist with mastery across styles (classical, rock, pop, jazz, Latin, country). Sources highlight his exceptional skills, unique style, and ability to blend technique with emotion, creating performances that leave audiences “in awe of his sheer talent and stage presence.”  His guitar solos, conducting, and vocal work are internationally recognized, with press noting his “electrifying” live shows and versatility.
• Versatility and Impact: Vittallo’s career reflects a broad influence, from symphony orchestras to TV soundtracks and rock bands. He has been one of the busiest musicians in LA, contributing to recordings, live events, and education. Promotional materials emphasize his “significant impact in the music industry” and ability to resonate with listeners through personal, emotion-driven songwriting and playing. 
• Public and Industry Opinions: While direct fan reviews are sparse in public sources (possibly due to his focus on professional collaborations rather than mainstream solo fame), available descriptions are overwhelmingly positive. Industry press and bios call him “highly talented,” “accomplished,” and a “world-class guitarist and vocalist” who has “captivated audiences around the world.”  Venues like Vibrato Grill Jazz have promoted him as a “musical prodigy” in live events.  No negative critiques or controversies were found; his work receives “great reviews” in contexts like the Beetlejuice show. 
Potential Limitations
• His profile is more niche, centered in jazz/Latin scenes (e.g., Las Vegas Jazz Society, Susie Hansen’s band) and session/collaborative work rather than massive commercial solo success. This means fewer widespread fan testimonials compared to pop stars, but his reputation among peers and in professional circles is strong.
• If you’re seeking quantitative ratings (e.g., on a 1-10 scale), sources don’t provide them explicitly, but his Grammy nomination, long career, and consistent praise suggest he’s at an elite level—perhaps an 8-9/10 for skill and impact in his genres.
In summary, Rick Vittallo is considered an excellent musician: skilled, innovative, and respected for his versatility and contributions over 50+ years. If you’re interested in his work, check his websites on the internet for bios and updates, or look for performances in LA or Las Vegas jazz spots.

Bio Press release 2026:
Building on the highlights of Rick Vittallo’s illustrious music career, here are additional personal anecdotes drawn from his life and experiences, infused with vivid details that reveal the passion, serendipity, and human connections that have shaped his journey. These stories underscore his humility, gratitude, and the thrill of a life steeped in melody.
• A Blessed Encounter with Donald J. Trump: In one of his most cherished memories, Vittallo had the honor of performing music for Donald J. Trump, an experience he describes as nothing short of incredible. Amid the opulence and high energy of the event, Trump approached him with genuine kindness and attentiveness, treating Vittallo with admiration that left a lasting impression. “He was kind and attentive, and he treated me with kindness and admiration,” Vittallo reflected, feeling profoundly blessed by the opportunity. This moment gained even deeper resonance for him following the events of July 13, 2024, when he saw it as evidence of divine protection over Trump. It’s a story that highlights Vittallo’s patriotic spirit and his appreciation for meaningful, personal interactions in the spotlight.  
• Roots in a Musical Dynasty and Childhood Prodigy Days: Growing up in the vibrant, rhythm-filled streets of Chicago, Vittallo was immersed in music from the cradle, thanks to his father, the legendary guitarist and entertainer Rick Verde. Verde, a multifaceted talent who played with The Three Suns on their multi-million-selling gold record “Twilight Time,” filled their home with the sounds of piano, drums, and comedy routines from his Pl***oy Club gigs. Young Rick, absorbing it all like a sponge, picked up the guitar early and was soon recognized as a prodigy. From ages 9 to 16, he endured rigorous classical training under Master Richard Pick at the Chicago School of Music, practicing scales and arpeggios in dimly lit rooms that echoed with the discipline of symphonic masters. These formative years, marked by the scent of rosin and the calluses on his fingers, instilled a lifelong work ethic and a blend of classical precision that he later wove into rock’s electric fire.  
• The Leap to Los Angeles and First Big Break: In the early 1970s, fueled by ambition and the allure of Hollywood’s glamour, Vittallo packed his bags and relocated to sun-drenched Los Angeles to study at the Dick Grove School of Music. The transition was a whirlwind of culture shock—trading Chicago’s windy winters for palm-lined boulevards—but it paid off almost immediately. His very first professional gig was as musical director for the suave jazz crooner Buddy Greco, conducting intimate sets in smoky lounges where the air hummed with cigarette haze and the clink of highball glasses. This role, thrust upon him fresh out of school, was a baptism by fire, teaching him the art of leadership amid the improvisational chaos of live jazz, and setting the stage for decades of high-profile collaborations.  
• The Thrill of Stadium Glory with the Raiders: For 15 exhilarating years, Vittallo rocked the Raiders Band, unleashing blistering guitar solos and powerhouse vocals during NFL games and Super Bowls. Picture the roar of 90,000 to 100,000 fans under glaring stadium lights, the turf vibrating with energy as he powered through anthems that hyped the crowd into a frenzy. He often recalls these as his favorite career moments—the adrenaline rush of performing on such a massive scale, the sweat-soaked camaraderie with bandmates, and the electric connection with fans that made him feel invincible. It was raw, unfiltered rock ‘n’ roll fused with sports spectacle, a highlight that embodied his love for high-stakes, crowd-pleasing performances.
• Embodying Frankenstein: A Monstrously Fun Detour: In the 1990s, Vittallo traded concert halls for the foggy, strobe-lit stages of Universal Studios Hollywood, where he spent five years portraying “Frankenstein” in the Beetlejuice Graveyard R***e. Decked out in bolts and makeup, he shredded guitar riffs, belted haunting vocals, and shuffled through choreographed dances, all while dodging pyrotechnics and delighting screaming families. The role was a playful escape from traditional gigs, blending horror theatrics with musical prowess—he’d later laugh about the absurdity of a classical-trained guitarist grunting lines like a monster, but it earned rave reviews and showcased his versatile, fun-loving side amid the theme park’s chaotic energy.  
• Creative Collaborations and Songwriting from the Heart: Vittallo’s songwriting is deeply personal, often channeling life’s highs and lows into compositions that pulse with emotion. One such tale comes from his recent writing and recording sessions with friends like John Townsend (of the Sanford/Townsend Band), Larry Antonino (bassist for Air Supply and Player), and drummer Tony Pia (formerly of ELP and Doobie Brothers). In cozy studios filled with the hum of amps and the aroma of fresh coffee, they crafted tracks that blended their storied careers—Vittallo drawing from his time as music director for Engelbert Humperdinck’s sprawling 54-piece orchestra. These sessions were more than work; they were reunions of kindred spirits, where stories of past tours and triumphs flowed as freely as the melodies, resulting in music rich with authentic, lived-in depth.   
• Mentorship and Giving Back in Las Vegas: As a re-elected board member of the Las Vegas Jazz Society, Vittallo has poured his expertise into nurturing the next generation, providing support and instruction to young musicians like those in UNLV’s Jazz Ensemble. He recalls intimate workshops where he’d share tales from his 50+ years in the industry—the mishaps on TV sets like Frasier and News Radio, where last-minute cues turned into comedic improvisations, or the quiet satisfaction of inventing his patented “Vittallo Caged Guitar Method” after decades of teaching. These sessions, held in vibrant venues amid the neon glow of the Strip, reflect his commitment to paying it forward, turning personal triumphs into communal inspiration with a mentor’s warm, encouraging demeanor.  
These anecdotes paint Vittallo not just as a musical powerhouse, but as a man whose career is intertwined with heartfelt connections, perseverance, and a profound sense of gratitude. His stories continue to evolve, as he records new albums and performs in Las Vegas, always with that signature blend of technical brilliance and emotional authenticity.  
This article was created you using research and artificial intelligence. Grok4 to be exact. 

Here's an interview I hosted with Jack Jones on Vegas Jazz Radio for the Las Jazz Society. I was vice president at the time. I also hosted the show from my studio. All the interviews are archived. Enjoy!

Jack Jones : Vegas Jazz : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive Jack Jones Oct 3rd, 2016

Rick Vittallo's old website. Working on a new one right now.

BIO | rick-vittallo Grammy Nominated Rick Vittallo was born in Chicago, Ill. Son of legendary guitarist internationally renowned entertainer, Rick Verde. His accomplishments include "The Three Suns" RCA muti-million selling gold record, "Twilight Time", and countless others. As a young boy Rick was a musical prodigy s....

My CD is still tearing it up!
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