Dale Latulippe - Pat Travers, Snortin' Whiskey - mint drum cover

Filmed in the 80's. A one song demo video put together by Dale Latullipe at a local studio. Dale was a New England Rock Drummer who was killed in the station fire. I thought many of his friends would like to see Dale again doing what he loved.
If you knew Dale, leave a comment. I would love to hear from you.
We miss him greatly. Godspeed Dale.
EXTENDED BIO....
Dale was a student of the "old school". Studies? "Rock 101" obviously! His style was born out of a simple passion for one genre of music. Dale believed in "do one thing and do it well". This reinforced every part of his life, particularly his drumming.
Dale often pointed out that many drummers allowed too many varied influences into their playing. A "Mish-mash" of styles that often looked like one jumbled mess behind the kit. Dale believed in "one deliberate style". Dale knew he wanted to be a straight ahead rock drummer. Nothing more, nothing less. (Born in "Rockland MA" (swear) it was obvious which path he would take!)
We each can appreciate a "do all" drummer like Vinnie Colaiuta, but there is also something just as satisfying when you watch a guy like Tommy Aldridge. Mastery of one style is a rare achievement.
"Flash and balls" -- good drummers have one or the other, the greats have both. Dale learned this early as a drummer. He was a huge fan of Gene Krupa. Perhaps his first real influence, Krupa had STYLE which left an impression on him. Dale was a performer, he knew that entertaining the crowd was just as important as what he was playing. Dale came prepared, he knew every wrinkle of his clothes when he got on stage.
"Balls" was just as important. Dale admired powerful drummers like Bonham, Billy Cobham, and Cozy Powell . When Dale played you couldn't help but watch. In fact, it was hard to take your eyes off him.
Dale cut his teeth on Vanilla Fudge, Cactus and early Zeppelin. He would be forever faithful to the "b-boom-DA-b-boom" drummers as we jokingly called them. John Bonham and Carmine came first in his world. Other drummers that Dale respected and admired included Ian Paice, Michael Derosier, Tommy Aldridge, Denny Carmassi, Lenny Haze, Bobby Rondinelli, Mick Tucker and bands like Thunder and Y&T.
Dale played 26" bass drums for nearly all of his life. Big drums were part of his image. I always thought that these kits never showcased his real talent. Dale had great hand speed and chops that would often be lost (as in this video) playing sometimes ridiculously large drums. Most drummers could never play his sets -- they were awkward and clumsy to a traditional player. (Note that Dale often plays open handed out of necessity)
In the end it would be Bonham as Dale's strongest influence. Dale would mimic as much as he could. You can note how Dale pays close attention to the guitars in this video (double-handed hi-hat work following the rhythm guitar during the verses). It established a groove that the listener could easily lock on to. This was a big part of Bonhams playing. Dale's too.
This video looks a bit contrived to those who knew Dale -- he played so naturally, and spontaneously and much of that is lost in this well rehearsed demo video. I don't have much footage of Dale playing with Bands, but that is where he shined.
Dale was a dynamo of energy and laughter. Everything was "Mint" to Dale and if something bothered him it was only his closest friends who could tell. He tried to make everybody happy. Drums and smiles came naturally to him and it's the two things he enjoyed his whole life.
Boston writer and vintage drum collector John Cohan (Star Sets) met Dale on many occasions. He always said he envied Dales passion well into his 40's. If John named a rock and roll song - no matter how obscure -- Dale would immediately air drum it with vocal drum sounds so perfectly that you would think the stereo was playing.
Dale had many high moments in his career -- and many lows. But he never quit. One high moment I recall is when he played Mama Kins in Boston, opening for Godsmack at their record release party. Dale was "on" that night. He pulled out all the old school "rock tricks" -- pouring water all over his snare drum head then opening the first song with a crushing open stroke roll to spray droplets into the air, lit by the stage lights. The crowd ate him up.
The next day, the Boston newspapers that reported the record release event all noted that, "the drummer in the opening act stole the show". Their words exactly.
Dale opened for many acts including James Brown. He would remain however, a Local Hero here in New England. He had thousands of friends, and 10 times that many great stories. Dale was killed in the station fire, Thursday February 20th, 2003.

[@NateWilliams190]

Face hurts from smiling through his performance - everytime!. I revisit this video several times a year.

[@pressrolls]

Thank you for the post and kind words! 👍

[@drall051]

I don't understand why anyone would have hit thumbs down on this video. They (1) must not realize how hard this song is to play, and (2) don't know how spot on this performance was. Thanks for sharing.

[@DB-kl9bp]

It can only be that they're retarded.

[@DB-kl9bp]

@Clockwork Beaver that's completely ridiculous. It's not showboating it's called showmanship which I've never heard anyone consider a negative quality. Showmanship has always been something that ads character to a performance. There are also tons of other musicians who use a lot more showmanship than this drummer did. Also the song is not that rhythmically simple. Bottom line here is there is absolutely nothing negative about this video. Time to stop worrying about what's fashionable and what's not. That's for 12 year old girls.

[@emaleighlatulippe7259]

He is my great uncle and he died in a night club fire and he was an awesome man

[@tuxitalk1World]

I have been reading about the great people who perished in the Station Fire and I send condolences to everyone who lost family members and friends. Your Great Uncle Dale is one of the very talented musicians I have been reading about and I found a link to this video. A great performance of this song and I know your Uncle Dale is one of those keeping the angels rocking in Heaven. A star who was taken way too soon.

[@tonywiley4357]

Dam no way .... sorry to hear that ....he was the shit ..

[@carlsylvester425]

THAT... WAS... DA... SHIZZNITT!!!! RIP, sir...

[@jeffscronce8564]

Definitely a bad ass on the skins, my condolences … RIP … 🤘

[@timeanes528]

Love it - love it - love it!! What a great performance..sorry for your loss.

[@fuelflownormal]

I love Tommy A. I’ve tried to play like him but it’s not easy. This guy was spot on. Note for note and having fun. Rest In Peace.

[@ferniegutierrez1053]

Man that's some awesome drumming! East coast drummers just have that attitude! Brilliant. So sorry for your loss.

[@johngilbert1634]

Damn. That dude was great. I’m a bass player and you just dream of locking in with a guy like that. RIP pal 😔

[@pressrolls]

Thanks for the kind words 👍

[@bigdaddyb3071]

Such a loss Great Talent ! As a young bass player back in the day, I jammed with him once or twice as I recall. Always very encouraging and supportive. Glad to have known him. RIP He was something special!

[@Luiscabada1966]

I just learned of Dale and he is amazing ! RIP Champ. I did not know that he passed away in the club fire years ago. I remember it out here in CA. RIP Dale.

[@lennydupont9005]

I molded your brother into this and he did very well. They both gone too soon

[@jgbuckley]

I stumbled across this clip while trying to learn this song with my own band. Now, I wish I could have met Dale in person. And when we do play this song, I hope I bring half the enthusiasm and joy Dale brought to this track.

[@royrocker9004]

Awesome job. He looked like he was having a great time playing. Wish I could have met him and bought him a beer. RIP.

[@tomdamico1272]

i had the pleasure of playing with dale for a long time,he was a great guy ,and amazing drummer.many days i think of him and miss those days the band was BALL N CHAIN with me,dale,joe black and lee vachon,who is no longer with us either.many great memories .rip my friend!

[@Topquark13]

Ball and chain album bought and played in Southboro,MA.

[@karinacosta4905]

I love watching Dale play this song......I m not a drummer but am amazed at his energy and style.....The world lost a great performer waaayy to soon!

[@axminsterband]

Got to play with Dale ...he was such a great guy...this video makes me smile.

[@builtbluecollar1687]

Trust me. ...there is no one like this.... that'a pure talent!!!!

[@OzzyTanks6969]

The absolute best drumming I've ever seen it is from the heart the baddest lick and licks I've ever heard in a song

[@BrutalAmericana]

Oh cool what a GEM beautiful playing ,that he left us ,........i....love Dales High Spirit!⚡⚡⚡

[@spottedbutt]

I used to do Dale's hair. He was such a great guy. Don't know how I got here today but I was thinking of him. Such a big personality and we would laugh so hard. I miss seeing him and think of him often.

[@user-zx6lf5so4w]

Excellent!!!! Extremely talented. 😥 R.i.p.

[@paul03121]

The song came into my head and I went searching ....came across this....wow... I learned a lot today....gonna go downstairs and drum my ass of this weekend.....cant say thanks enough for the post!!!!

[@Crankerny58]

A Killer drummer I could look up to! Gone but not forgotten! RIP Dale you kicked Major Ass!!

[@jamescastillo2405]

Watching this cat Dale's ass kicking drum beatdown, has become part of my daily routine that helps me maintain my sanity, his playing reminds me of a happy time, long ago, & Dale's video is a must watch before any wood shedding drum session I begin. 👈😎👍🇺🇲🎶🥁🎶

[@pressrolls]

Dude! That was one of the most appreciated posts! Thank you! 👍

[@EJNTheSarge1982]

Man, my brother is a bad ass drummer BUT...Damn! This brother was on BEAST MODE💪 Thanks for sharing. God Bless and RIP Dale🥁

[@tempebill8183]

Wow..! I've been learning of the individuals who passed in the tragedy and came across this for Dale- I hope time has eased the pain for his family and friends.. Impressive performance- bravo!

[@jamescastillo2405]

He's kicking ass!!!, 👈😎👍🇺🇲 this reminds me of Terry bozzio's Halloween performance when he does baby snakes and punky Meadows.

[@NateWilliams190]

What a joy to watch. I've visited this sight multiple times to watch Mr Latulippe perform. Of course I like the song; but, it's his talent & enthusiasm that brings me back. The man is soaring!

[@itravellight]

Great showmanship, timing and drumwork artistry. Why do so many gifted ones die young? I can watch this time and again.

[@TheOneAboveAll]

Dude sounds spot on like Tommy Aldridge. RIP

[@mlasch1478]

@ Monster Drummers. Aldridge and Dale Latulippe

[@stevetaylor1305]

Actually, Better than Tommy. Much More Enthusiasm!

[@user-lo1wf9nk4v]

@@stevetaylor1305 100 percent agreed , hes a monster player with unbeatable chops and this was filmed in the 80s this drummer was way ahead of his time.I can only imagine what he would have sounded like today!

[@robertoruiz9049]

Now That is what playing from the Heart sounds And looks like!!! Soak it in folks!! Awesome 👍👍😎 just Awesome brotha!!

[@nygellauzon9551]

Miss you Dale....He played in a couple bands over the years with my father Glenn Lauzon. He always said there was Noone who hit those skins like Dale.

[@richeeromeo]

This is awesome!! Dale and I played in a couple of bands together most notably Backseat Romeo in the late nineties. He was a powerhouse of a drummer!!! Miss you Dale.

[@paulfisher4068]

Dale was amazing. A super nice guy.....He was so much fun and loved all of his family and friends so so much.....RIP Dale~

[@pressrolls]

Thanks for the kind words Paul!

[@christrudell7966]

This is what I like to see in a drummer: Tons of energy

[@bcantlon]

I never had the good fortune of meeting Dale. I can tell by his smile and playing that he really enjoyed life! I love watching this video. I am saddened he was taken so early from his loved ones. When I need some inspiration, I will cue this video up. Thanks for sharing PressRolls

[@joseph47711]

maybe its me, his timing is on time but what... what... what, but he is really great 2 watch, one of a kind, Dale, your aresome!!

[@texanscott3217]

Insanely awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@JtL1329SDMFIIIVIIV]

I just so happened to come across this and I love it Dale did an amazing job! He looks so peaceful and in another zone like it was his escape from the cruel world in wich we live in! I bet he's up there drumming his ass off! R.I.P. Brother! S.D.M.F.

[@rbilleaud]

That is a good song to play along with. Never realized it had so many great fills.

[@joemorrow7691]

That man there Is Having the time of his life,,,,Pure Joy,,,,,that dude is a percussionist ,,,,,one of my favorite songs,,,thanks for posting this great video

[@husky500cr]

I saw Pat Travers in 1978. It was loud and rockin'.

[@djcosmik5338]

I'd never heard of him until now, but I won't forget him. Would have loved a chance to play a few songs with him. The dude really rocked.

[@chuckgrob5289]

Immense talent gone too some, RIP Dale L., Sir 🙏!

[@LLCFAD]

I love the looks he gives while playing. A real showman. Awesome. RIP, Dale.

[@atticusfinch3931]

I was at the Local Tavern one night playing guitar when this guy tapped me on the shoulder and said my name is Dale and I'm a drum player yeah he wasn't kidding not only a great drum player he was a real cool guy

[@bcantlon]

Dale is truly inspirational! You can see the John Bonham and Keith Moon in his drumming. How can you not smile after watching this video?

[@pjholly123]

Even if it was horrible there is no reason to thumbs down this excellent performance which by the way was not at all horrible. You thumb up when you see pure joy and rock and roll and someone doing what they love, and doing it well. H8rs gon H8.

[@michaelgonzalez2182]

Wow this guy is badass rest in peace brother God bless your soul

[@NoelKerns]

This dude was good, and this is a great drum song. Well played, and RIP.

[@martinhedberg3514]

👍😀 This song is One of Tommys greatest drumtracks with his heavy double bassdrum groove, off time cowbell, and murdering drumfills,( the One after the cowbellpart is really tricky to nail), and Dale is doing a helluva job here. Great performance, sad story to read and its great that he becomes remembered this way. I Am a true Tommy-fan, been that since 1980 and this was really fun to watch. Hope Tommy ses this and comments Dales great great drumming.👍 R.I.P Dale someone commented that he is looking like Terry Bozzio back in the days, and yeeah, thats right, he does. Attitude💪

[@OzzyTanks6969]

I've been trying to nail down them licks for twenty years that dude is such a badass

[@Rdrnr29]

absolutely fantastic!

[@LanceCampeau]

Awesome "rock faces" and natural rhythm RIP brother...

[@mlasch1478]

10000000000 Salutes for honoring your friend.

[@4SKIN1001]

I cant get enough of watching this vid.Cool song and drummers fantastic.

[@IslandDigital]

I didn’t know him , but what a great tribute for him. Whoever wrote the extended bio did an outstanding job. Great video that immortalizes him in the 80’s that I’m sure if he were here today would say was still the best time EVER !!! Thanks for the post

[@pressrolls]

Great story! Thanks so much for sharing it. I can actually picture the whole thing in my mind! Dale never thought twice about striking up a conversation with anybody and everybody. Georgios Pizza, Dandy Donuts across the street, the video store....He made friends easy.

[@17drumhead]

Being a drummer myself, and also a Tommy Aldridge freak, this dude killed it! So sad to hear what happened to him. In this video, this guy IS the 80's (which is my era) My heart goes out to all his friends and family. Rock on in the next life brother!

[@charliecaswell1016]

This video should be a training film for drummers all over

[@buzzhoundofficial9821]

The joy of drumming

[@scottrocks1000]

Amazing Demo !! Truly a Great Musical Heart and Talent !!

[@gowanian]

Great drummer.

[@tonyx9488]

Yesterday was the 21st anniversary of the fire and Dales death. I miss this guy so much. He really missed out on the whole social media/TikTok/ online video thing. He would have been a natural. I only wish I had videos of him speaking and goofing around because it was his personality even beyond the drumming that made him so special. INSTANTLY likeable. I just want to say thank you for all the kind words and positive comments you have all written So appreciated. ❤

[@kenglish]

I watched this, oh I guess about a year ago, and over the past year, I've watched it probably about 40 times. Each time, it just makes me smile. You can see how much fun Dale is having. Pat Travers (and Ted Nugent) was my first concert, and this was my favorite song after seeing it live. Dale nailed it as well as Tommy Aldridge could have done. Thanks so much for sharing this. I didn't know Dale, but I wish I could have. RIP.

[@pfdfcc]

This epitomizes me as a teen playing air drums in my bedroom…….this dude was KILLIN’ IT!

[@m1goodwin]

Aren’t there rules against having this much fun? Awesome performance.

[@benjaminmichaels4347]

My grandparents knew him he owned a car dealership and he sold them a few cars and they said he was the nicest sweetest person they ever knew my little brother was friends with his son but they dont talk anymore rest in peace dale 1956-2003

[@SuperSlik50]

Best I’ve ever seen RIP

[@bcantlon]

I never tire of watching Dale rip it up. Would have loved to him play Barracuda! Rocking Heaven Down!

[@user-fp2ws4lr8y]

Jeffrey St.Louis he really was amazing!!😢R.I.P

[@jeembo420]

Ive heard alot of sories about how great this guy was .Im thrilled to finally see him play and I fully agree_DUDE IS AWESOME!

[@bcantlon]

Thanks for sharing . Talented drummer. I did not know Dale, but I can tell he loved playing the drums and was loved by many. Sorry for your loss

[@hillsmith]

Great! Love old PT!

[@joseph47711]

you really broputh this song 2 life!!!! well done ;)

[@joseph47711]

strong foot too!

[@czknoxx]

All time favorite tune and what an incredible cover of it; all feel! Dale is proof that Angels have rhythm! Just breathe my drumming brothers and you may just find him in the next groove you lay down. Thanks for the post .....

[@johngreen1683]

Smokin'!!!

[@chrisduerden2084]

That kicked ass🤘

[@OzzyTanks6969]

LOVE that

[@rodleger7132]

Impressive to say the least. Would have loved to have met him and watch him in action. I have seen Pat Travers several times. Tommy Aldridge, great drummer.

[@nealhanna5339]

WOW!

[@pressrolls]

20 years ago now. I woke up today and it doesn't hurt any less. Miss you buddy.

[@dyurkew]

Smoking Ass Player!! 1st. Time I heard this tune on the radio I was Blown Away!! The song ended but once was simply not enough!!👍

[@rcskins]

Great playing, great attitude. He was having a ball and loving it.

[@christospapoulidis3962]

Dale and I use to fix up VW bugs and sell them in front of my moms house, I really miss him

[@frankkrank3970]

Makes me sad and smile and cry all at the same time - Fuckin hell Dale, hope you and Stevie Ray, Ronnie James, Mr Bain, Randy, Phillo and the boys are making a big fuckin racket up in heaven.....

[@tommydanger60]

Frank Krank, I with you on that thought, Dale was a great guy.

[@pressrolls]

@BillySciore Hey Billy. Thanks for posting a comment. Man do we miss him! I plan to create a facebook page for him this winter. You're one of several who suggested it. I was very close to Dale (was supposed to go to the Station with him that night). Id like to get more vids and photos of all his vintage gear up there. Present it the way Dale would have wanted it. Thanks again man ; )

[@eddyd.8346]

He is no drummer .....He is Art in one word...WOwwww....Topppp!!

[@pressrolls]

Thank you for the kind words! Appreciated 😉

[@richwhite63]

What a talent, that was totally flawless. That's the great thing about videos, always being able to re-live precious moments, like this one. Thanks for posting !

[@bbgb2002]

Sweet dude RIP covered my favorite band and nailed it! Rock on!

[@dannycampanirio3499]

I was the last person to be with dale working at his car dealerships that day told him to go home relax don't go to the club and I will see you in the morning but he went but I got to tell him that I love you brother before I left he was a very good man r.i.p your friend Kevin campanirio

[@chuckgrob5289]

I'd love to see Tommy Aldridge doing his video take on this song, obviously Mr. Dale Latulippe was a very serious playing fan of Mr. Tommy Aldridge🤘❤️🎶!!!!

[@tonyx9488]

Yes he was! Thank you for the kind comment! 🤘

[@davidhubert3222]

Awesome drummer! Great video clip, looked like he was using a 14×14 floor tom for a rack tom. Guy had some serious skills !

[@bbgb2002]

Could have ruled, extremely tight, this vdeo is in my favorites and inspires me. I am sure he has met my folks, they are all in the same place. I personally would have really like to have known him. RIP Dale

[@shannonthomas8894]

Intense!!

[@boomertees]

great!

[@chrspappas3612]

Wow... That's as good as it gets... No more for me thank you...

[@bcantlon]

Thanks again for showing this video. I absolutely love watching Dale rock this song. RIP!

[@tomartstone]

WoW I was looking up Pat and came across this video...I am impressed and sad to know that he had died in the fire.....Too young

[@Chuffin_ell]

what a fantastic drummer and showman. I really like the way he works his set. thanks for the byline. it would be hard to receive a more genuine praise than the one you have given.

[@nicolodomenico2041]

Great drummer!R.I.P.

[@ONTHEEDGEFRED]

Fuqn bad ass from start to finish

[@PlayingCrazy]

Awesome!!!

[@calvinstulip]

That was fucking excellent.