Franky Freedom, a.k.a. François Laliberté, is a drummer, multi-instrumentalist, composer, producer, and sound engineer based in Montreal. Trained at Berklee College of Music in Boston—where his outstanding performances earned him a place on the prestigious Dean’s List—he has emerged as a rising figure in today’s music scene, combining rhythmic virtuosity, sonic richness, and a unique artistic vision.

With an approach deeply rooted in structured improvisation, Franky blends the codes of Future Jazz, a genre that fuses jazz, electronic music, R&B, and post-fusion. Inspired by artists who relentlessly explore the technological possibilities of sound, he places a strong emphasis on sound design, attention to detail, and raw emotion in every performance.

 

In 2022, he launched his solo project Franky Freedom with a self-titled album praised for its quality and boldness, collaborating with internationally renowned musicians such as Wayne Krantz, Frederic Robinson, Evan Marien, Robin Mullarkey (Jacob Collier), and Count (Radiohead, Tycho). This repertoire was premiered live at Quebec City’s Palais Montcalm during the Ralph Angelillo International Drum Fest, playing to a packed house—a performance that earned him an overwhelmingly enthusiastic audience response.

Franky is currently working on his second album, continuing to expand his hybrid musical universe, with collaborations including Gary Willis (Tribal Tech) and Mark Lettieri (Snarky Puppy), further cementing his place in an innovative and demanding international music scene.

 

Known for his powerful yet nuanced playing, Franky has received multiple distinctions, including winning the PASIC International Drumset Competition. Alongside his solo work, he collaborates with numerous Canadian and international artists (Alain Caron, Nikki Yanofsky, Koriass, Afrikana Soul Sister, among others) while also working extensively as a session musician. He is proud to be endorsed by Yamaha Drums, Evans Drumheads, and ProMark Drumsticks.