Breaking News
Local News

Liotti releases single about pet

2 min read
The cover of “Before I go,” a single released to streaming media by Rob Liotti, a Parkersburg native who is an actor and writer.

A Parkersburg native who is a writer, actor and performer has released a song about a beloved pet that died.

"Before I Go" by Rob Liotti is available at all major digital streaming platforms and radio providers across the country. The song can be heard on YouTube.

Liotti, who now lives in Charleston, S.C., said the song is his first entry into Americana and cinematic‑country music that blends "emotional storytelling with an outlaw aesthetic."

"Anyone familiar with my musical performances or songwriting knows that rock and roll is in my blood, but what started as a moving inspirational poem soon became a pet loss anthem," Liotti, who graduated from Parkersburg South High School in 1981, said.

"For the last seven years, I have been dedicated to sharing encouragement with folks who have experienced loss," he said. "And like many songs, something emotional typically drives their creation. This one just happened to be well-outside my normal wheelhouse, but it certainly shines."

"Before I Go" was inspired by Giada, a puppy rescued by Liott from the streets in 2009 and lived with Liotti and his girlfriend for 16 years until its passing. His girlfriend was reluctant at first, but grew fond of Giada.

An author, the story of Giada was the subject of a children's book by Liotti, "Giada's Lucky Day," which he also illustrated, that was published this past spring.

Liotti is the son of Mary and Charles Liotti of Parkersburg. Before he transferred to and graduated from Parkersburg South, he played sports at Parkersburg High School and received a football scholarship offer to Ohio State University where he became a singer in a band.

Liotti has built a career in music, acting, screenwriting and publishing. Among his work is the psychological thriller "Zero Turn" and technical and reference books about buying a car and equestrian studies.

He was the star of "Family Values: The Rise of Anthony Morelli" and played the title role of Anthony Morelli, a mobster and politician.

"Before I Go" is now available on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music and YouTube Music, among others.

Starting at /week.