Since 1993, Darrell "Pelican" Verdusco has been the drummer and backup singer for Starship. He has taken his "big beat" virtually around the world with Mickey Thomas, having played concerts in such places as Costa Rica, Japan, Australia, China, Singapore, and Malaysia, as well as every state in the USA.



After moving to Los Angeles in 1977, Darrell immediately began recording with singer/ songwriter Dirk Hamilton. After two albums, Darrell was invited to record and play with the critically acclaimed, New York based band, The Cryers.



In 1979, singer/ songwriter John Hiatt asked Darrell Verdusco to record his album "Two Bit Monsters" in Los Angeles. On that session he recorded with Howie Epstein who was soon to become the bass player for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. Thus began a six year relationship with Hiatt. During this period, they recorded a second album, "All of a Sudden," in New York and London with David Bowie producer, Tony Visconti. Also on those sessions was guitarist Jeff Beck, Steve Nieve and Pete Thomas from Elvis Costello and the Attractions, and Bowie himself.



Also during this period, Darrell Verdusco began working with master slide guitarist, Ry Cooder. He toured around the world, off and on, for three years with him, including a major US tour with Eric Clapton. From this relationship, Darrell was invited to record with artists such as Mark Knopfler (Dire Straits), Stevie Nicks, Van Morrison, and Eddie Money.



In 1985, Darrell Verdusco moved back to his home town of San Francisco, where he immediately began recording with the KBC BAND, featuring former members of the Jefferson Airplane, Paul Kantner, Marty Balin, and Jack Cassidy. After recording one album and touring extensively, the band broke up, and Darrell began working with Clarence Clemons of Bruce Springsteen's "E" Street Band. He toured and recorded with Clemons for four years. Most recently, Darrell was invited to record on Sammy Hagars latest album "Red Voodoo".



Through all these years and all of these artists, Darrell has consistently been nothing less than the consummate pro, know for his impeccable sense of groove and time. Darrell Verdusco has never lost the desire to to continue learning and growing through his drums, and looks forward to a long and rewarding career with Starship featuring Mickey Thomas.