Roxy Petrucci, a name synonymous with the powerful drumming and high-energy performances of the all-female rock band Vixen, embodies the Rock And Roll Fantasy. From her Detroit roots to international stardom, Petrucci’s journey is a testament to talent, perseverance, and the enduring spirit of rock music.
Born into a musical Italian-American family in Detroit, Petrucci’s talent was evident early on. Initially a clarinetist, she traded woodwinds for drumsticks, embracing a life of leather and rock and roll. Inspired by iconic drummers like John Bonham and Keith Moon, she formed the all-female band Pantagruel, later known as Black Lace. Petrucci’s passion ignited: “Music was in my heart but metal was in my veins.” This drive propelled her forward, leading her to the flamboyant Madam X. With her sister Maxine on guitar, Chris ‘Godzilla’ Doliber on bass, and Bret Kaiser on vocals, Madam X became a cult sensation, their shows a fusion of theatrical energy and raw rock power. A grueling four-year tour honed Petrucci’s skills and solidified her commitment to the rock and roll lifestyle.
Following Madam X, Petrucci continued to make waves, even auditioning for David Lee Roth. While she narrowly missed the gig to Greg Bissonette, her talent was undeniable. In 1986, Petrucci joined Vixen, launching the band into the stratosphere of rock and roll fantasy. MTV embraced Vixen, solidifying their status as the most successful all-female rock band of the era. Sharing stages with giants like Ozzy Osbourne, Scorpions, Deep Purple, and Kiss, Vixen’s star burned bright. The band eventually parted ways in 1991, though occasional reunions occurred until 2001.
Subsequent projects like Hell’s Belles and Titania didn’t achieve the same success, but in 2004, VH1’s “Bands Reunited” brought Vixen back into the spotlight, albeit briefly. Petrucci later collaborated with Lorraine Lewis of Femme Fatale and guitarist Jeff Young (Megadeth) in the project Roktopuss.
A turning point came in 2010 when Petrucci received the prestigious Cape Breton International Drum Festival Legends Award alongside drumming legends Carmine Appice, Alan White, Jerry Mercer, and Virgil Donati. This recognition reignited her passion for inspiring future generations of rock musicians. For Petrucci, true success lies not just in personal achievements but in fostering the rock and roll fantasy for others.
Petrucci’s story exemplifies the enduring power of rock and roll. Her journey, fueled by passion and perseverance, continues to inspire. In her own words, she envisions her final moments “slumped over my drum kit still grasping my sticks in my cold dead hands… but I’m not dead yet!” This unwavering dedication to her craft solidifies Roxy Petrucci’s place in rock and roll history. Her legacy as a powerful drummer and an inspiration to aspiring musicians ensures that the rock and roll fantasy lives on.
