“The Man of A Million Chords”
Rockit Pays Tribute to Lou Pallo
On October 2, 2022, The Rockit Live Foundation was honored to pay tribute to Lou Pallo at The Cutting Room NYC by hosting a heartfelt live music concert by Rockit Academy students and alumni with very special guests: Eddie Brigati, Ricky Byrd, Carmine Appice, Steve Lacy, Paul Shaffer, Wé Ani McDonald, Paul Nowinski, Williams Honor featuring Regan Richards and Gordon Brown, Johnny Pisano, Jake Thistle and Jason Recht.
Keith Richards described Lou Pallo as, “The Man of a Million Chords.” Lou was an incredibly accomplished guitarist who recorded and performed with countless world-renowned musicians. He was a dear friend of The Rockit Live Foundation and guiding mentor to Rockit students.
FOX5 News Feature
Reception
“Watching clips of videos with students who played & were mentored by Lou and hearing them speak so candidly about their love for him was beyond heartwarming. There is no doubt Lou is beaming with pride from the best seat in the house because last night was pure FIRE with these kids. I am not exaggerating in the least when I say the talent of this group of kids will Knock. You. Out.”
– Reagan Richards of Williams Honor
The Lou Pallo Scholarship
The Rockit Live Foundation would like to thank Gibson Gives for creating the Lou Pallo Scholarship which will be awarded annually to a Rockit student. This year’s recipient was awarded to 16-year-old Sebastian de la Cruz, who received a black custom Les Paul guitar, and a one year scholarship to participate in the Rockit Academy, including private guitar lessons, band rehearsals, and live performance. When asked the question “How will you carry out the giving spirit and mentorship of Lou Pallo?” Sebastian wrote, “Now the best way I can think to carry on his legacy is simple. Just keep playing, and enjoy it for every second.” Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductees Eddie Brigati and Ricky Byrd presented Sebastian with the award. Sebastian then had the honor of playing “Red House” on his custom Gibson with Carmine Appice, Paul Shaffer, and Ricky Byrd. It was a rock ‘n roll memory he will undoubtedly never forget!
Photos
Rockit founder and executive director, Bruce Gallipani, joins legend Paul Shaffer on stage with Rockit students.
Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Eddie Brigati and his amazingly talented wife, Susan Brigati, sang a few songs with Rockit students. Eddie and Susan frequently mentor our students and drop in on rehearsals. In Eddie’s words, “We’re family.”
Ricky Byrd, Carmine Appice, and Paul Shaffer join Rockit students on stage giving them a memory of a lifetime.
Special guest Steve Lacy, Channel 5 News correspondent and Rockit Artist Advisory Board member, was our emcee for the night.
Johnny Pisano rocked the stage with our students. He mentored our young musicians earlier in the week.
Students’ jaws dropped backstage when Wé Ani McDonald’s mesmerizing voice captured the attention of The Cutting Room.
Special thank you to Rockit Photographer, Sean Tobin, for always capturing the magic of our concerts!