David Garibaldi

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David Garibaldi is the drummer for Oakland-based funk/soul band Tower of Power.

Born in Oakland, California, David grew up just east of San Francisco. Through his fascination for drums, he began playing music at age 10. His parents bought him his first drumset in high school and the rest, as they say, is history.

David began his professional career at age 17 in 1966, but the Vietnam War brought uncertainty. Upon waiting for his draft into the Army, his future changed when it was suggested he enlist in the United States Air Force and become a member of the 724th United States Air Force Band. After his discharge from military service, he returned to his home in the San Francisco Bay Area. In the summer of 1970, David joined Tower of Power.

It was in this setting that David became one of the most influential drummers of his generation and became known as an innovator in funk drumming. He has since appeared in a variety of studio and live settings including work for television and film. His credits include work with artists including: Rose Ann Dimalanta, Patti Austin, Natalie Cole, Larry Carlton, Mickey Hart's Planet Drum, Jermaine Jackson, Ray Obiedo, the Buddy Rich Orchestra, Boz Scaggs, Talking Drums, Gino Vanelli, Takit (a house band of The Way International), Deniece Williams, Breakthrough, the Yellowjackets and Wishful Thinking.

David's books and videos are available through Alfred Publishing and Warner Brothers Publications. He has come out with three instructional drumming workbooks, "Future Sounds", "The Funky Beat", and "The Code of Funk." The latter workbook includes a "minus drums" mix of Tower of Power's latest album "The Oakland Zone." All books stress David's focus on the "two sound level" concept. He has also co-authored two books called "Tiempo" and "Timbafunk" with Jesus Diaz and Michael Spiro. These two focus on Afro-Cuban Rhythms. Over the last couple of years, David has been working with Tower of Power baritone saxophone player Stephen "Doc" Kupka as the drummer in Doc's special project, The Strokeland Superband. Recently, he has been touring with the singer, RAD. RAD has featured the renowned Tower of Power horn section on one of her CDs.

David Garibaldi plays Yamaha drums and Sabian cymbals.

In January 1998, David Garibaldi rejoined Tower of Power and continues touring with them. [[1]]