Quiet Riot bassist Rudy Sarzo has responded after fans accused the band of ignoring new singer John Torra. He addressed the criticism in a post on X.
The criticism came from fans who said the band was slow to acknowledge Torra, who was recently announced as its new vocalist. One rock fan wrote that Torra is 23, went viral after auditioning online, and beat 700 others. The fan also said supporters demanded the band hire him. Sarzo explained that the announcement was held until the band had played two more shows with Jason McMaster.
“Trust me, we were not ignoring him but following a professional business protocol,” Sarzo said.
He then explained the timing of the announcement.
“Our previous singer gave us a 90 day notice, which meant we had a summer full of shows with him,” Sarzo continued. “Once he fulfilled his 90 day commitment, we immediately announced John Torra as our new singer.”
Sarzo’s comments came as Torra’s addition to Quiet Riot drew attention from fans online.
Jizzy Pearl announced in July that he was leaving Quiet Riot to pursue other creative projects. He fronted the band in two stints, from 2013 to 2016 and again from 2019 to 2026. He played his final show with the group on September 18. The band named Torra as his replacement days later, on September 21.
Quiet Riot opened an audition process for a new lead singer in mid-July. The call drew more than 700 submissions. Torra, a Long Island native, sent in his application on July 15. He shared his versions of “Cum on Feel the Noize,” “Metal Health (Bang Your Head)” and “Run for Cover.”
His audition videos spread quickly among fans and musicians online. Torra also sings with the New Jersey metal band Fire ‘N Ice. He has said he will keep that role when his schedule allows.
The band described how his selection came about.
“John sent his audition videos to management and also shared performances online, where they went viral and sparked an incredible response from fans,” the band said in its announcement.
Torra began his run with Quiet Riot with shows that started on October 1. The band has also announced its first tour dates with him, which extend into 2027.
