About Franklin Vanderbilt:

Franklin Vanderbilt (born Royalprince Franklin Vanderbilt) is a Chicago-raised drummer, singer-songwriter, guitarist, and actor whose career spans jazz, rock, R&B, and blues at the highest level. Known for his musical precision, emotional depth, and quiet authority, Vanderbilt has built a reputation as a world-class performer equally at home in studios, arenas, and intimate creative settings.

Franklin has performed, toured, and recorded with an extraordinary roster of music legends, including Chaka Khan, Stevie Wonder, Stanley Clarke, and Richie Kotzen. A defining chapter of his career began in 2007 when Lenny Kravitz invited him to join his band—leading to 15 years of global touring, major television appearances, and performances on the world’s biggest stages.

Franklin is currently co-writing and performing with Robby Krieger as a member of Robby Krieger and the Soul Savages. Their debut album was released in January 2024, and the group continues to perform throughout the Los Angeles area. In parallel, Franklin is launching his solo career as a singer-songwriter, preparing a deeply personal album slated for release in 2026, produced by legendary engineer and producer Alan Parsons, OBE

Vanderbilt’s artistry is rooted in discipline, intention, and emotional honesty. His work blends groove with restraint, technical mastery with feel, and classic musicianship with modern storytelling. Whether behind the drum kit or fronting his own material, his performances are defined by clarity, control, and deep musical listening.

Beyond music, Franklin is committed to service and mentorship. He has donated his time and talent to numerous charitable causes and has performed with the Playing For Change Foundation alongside Steve Miller and Ivan Neville.