When not touring, Lou Molino spends much of his time in his L.A. studio playing drums for various artists, both in town and over the internet.

His latest project is Yoso; a band with Bobby Kimball of Toto, ex-Yes men Billy Sherwood and Tony Kaye, and ex-Chris Squire Experiment guitarist Jimmy Haun.

“With KickPort = fat punchy bottom end like old analog recordings — nice.”

Louis Molino III was born and raised in Philadelphia, PA. After seeing the movie “Get Yourself a College Girl” in 1964 he was in awe of Stan Getz and wanted to play saxophone. Unfortunately, his school didn’t offer sax lessons, so he was forced to settle for a coronet. The coronet lessons only lasted a few months before Lou wanted to try his hand at the guitar. He started on the acoustic and soon after he found an electric guitar and amp for the rich price of $50. Next, he was begging for a bass guitar and found a cool blue Teisco Del Rey at EJ Korvette in 1966. He joined his first band and played bass for almost a year. When he told his parents he wanted to play the drums, they refused to buy him any more instruments. An upholstered chair and the wood sticks from coat hangers served as Lou’s first practice drums, but he soon tired of telling people he played “chair.” He then convinced his younger brother to ask for a drum set for Christmas. In 1967 Santa (grandparents) brought a blue sparkle Sears kit. In no time, Lou had confiscated the drums from his younger brother, Paul.

By the age of 13 he was the drummer in a band of neighborhood friends, playing at local dances and “battles of the bands.” Lou received no formal training; drumming came naturally to him. He learned essentially by playing along to his favorite records, especially The Rascals, Vanilla Fudge, and Led Zeppelin. Later he taught himself to read music. By 17 he was playing professionally in Philadelphia area night clubs and at the Jersey shore.

After years of honing his skills in the Philly area, he made his move to Los Angeles in search of greater challenges. Within six weeks of moving to L.A., he was working with Cock Robin and later signed with the band to Columbia Records. Cock Robin released their debut album in 1985 and Lou spent the following year supporting the album in both the U.S. and Europe.

It was during Lou’s time with Cock Robin that he was introduced to producer Paul DeVillers (Mr. Mister, Yes, King Crimson), who would become a good friend. Lou was soon working with Paul on various projects in the U.S. and Canada.

Paul later introduced Lou to his friend, Trevor Rabin. Lou began working with Trevor, first on his solo album and tour, and then on film scores. Over the years of working together, Lou developed a close friendship with Trevor that is irreverently funny and continues today.

LouMolino.com