A 23-year-old singer from Massapequa, New York, has been named the new frontman of the heavy metal band Quiet Riot after beating out more than 700 other applicants who responded to an open call for auditions.
John Torra secured the job after posting a video audition on Instagram in which he performed three of the band’s best-known songs. He submitted the audition on July 15, covering “Cum on Feel the Noize,” “Metal Health (Bang your Head)” and “Run for Cover.”
“Quiet Riot recently announced they’re accepting submissions as they search for their new singer for next year. I figured… why not? Challenge accepted!” Torra said when he posted his audition.
Regina Banali, the band’s manager and widow of longtime drummer Frankie Banali, said the public response to Torra’s videos got the band’s attention, but his talent sealed the decision.
“We saw your comments, tags, and messages urging us to bring him on board. But what earned John the gig was his undeniable talent. His videos were outstanding—but when he stepped into the room with us, he blew the doors off our songs. We all heard it: an authentic sound that brings our material to life the way it’s meant to be heard.”
Torra has spent recent years as lead singer for the New Jersey-based band Fire ‘N Ice while he awaited word from Quiet Riot. He replaces outgoing frontman Jizzy Pearl and will now perform alongside current members Rudy Sarzo, Alex Grossi and Johnny Kelly.
Fire ‘N Ice confirmed Torra is staying with that group as well. “To be clear, John Torra is NOT leaving Fire ‘N Ice. On days he is not performing or working with Quiet Riot, John will be actively involved with Fire ‘N Ice,” the band said.
Banali said the band is looking forward to what Torra brings to the stage. “He may be young, but he’s dedicated and professional. He brings a breath of fresh air that lifts us all, and we couldn’t be more excited about the future with him on lead vocals. Please join us in welcoming John Torra to QUIET RIOT!” she said.
A Coast-to-Coast, Continent-Spanning Tour
Torra’s first shows with the band kick off Oct. 1 in West Siloam Springs, Oklahoma, launching a year-long tour that will carry the band across the United States and into Mexico and South America, with stops in Colombia, Peru, Argentina, Chile and Brazil.
The tour concludes with a show in Uncasville, Connecticut — the stop closest to Torra’s home turf on Long Island.
Quiet Riot’s Long History
Quiet Riot was formed in 1973 by original frontman Kevin DuBrow, guitarist Randy Rhoads and bassist Kelly Garni. The band has cycled through numerous lineups over the decades and released 14 studio albums, selling more than 15 million records worldwide. It was the first heavy metal band to top the Billboard pop chart at No. 1.
DuBrow died of a cocaine overdose in 2007. The band was later reformed with Frankie Banali on drums, Jizzy Pearl on vocals, Chuck Wright on bass and Grossi on guitar. Frankie Banali died in August 2020 after a 16-month battle with cancer, but the band continued on, honoring his wishes. Sarzo has been part of the band in multiple stints since 1978, while Grossi, who joined in 2010, is currently the longest-serving member.
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