Here is our list of the best drummers of all time and what made them great:
Buddy Rich
Widely considered one of the greatest drummers of all time, Buddy Rich was known for his incredible speed, precision, and technique. His dynamic playing style and showmanship made him a standout figure in the world of jazz and big band music.
John Bonham
As the drummer for Led Zeppelin, John Bonham’s powerful and innovative drumming style helped define the sound of hard rock and heavy metal. His thunderous beats, intricate rhythms, and use of triplets made him an iconic figure in rock music.
Neil Peart
As the drummer and primary lyricist for the progressive rock band Rush, Neil Peart was known for his technical prowess, intricate drum patterns, and elaborate drum solos. His innovative playing style and conceptual approach to drumming made him a major influence on generations of drummers.
Gene Krupa
A pioneer of modern drumming, Gene Krupa was one of the first drummers to use the drum kit as a solo instrument. His energetic playing style, charisma, and work with Benny Goodman helped bring the drums to the forefront of jazz and swing music.
Keith Moon
As the drummer for The Who, Keith Moon’s wild, energetic, and unpredictable playing style was a major force in the development of hard rock and punk music. His explosive drumming and on-stage antics made him a legendary figure in rock history.
Tony Williams
A prodigy who began playing professionally at a young age, Tony Williams is considered one of the most important drummers in the history of jazz. His innovative playing style, combining power, speed, and complexity, helped define the sound of jazz fusion and influenced countless drummers.
Stewart Copeland
As the drummer for The Police, Stewart Copeland’s unique blend of rock, reggae, and world music rhythms made him a standout figure in the world of rock drumming. His precise, syncopated playing style and use of unusual time signatures contributed significantly to the band’s signature sound.
Max Roach
A pioneer of bebop, Max Roach was known for his intricate, melodic, and highly influential drumming style. His work with artists like Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie helped establish the foundations of modern jazz drumming.
Steve Gadd
As one of the most sought-after session drummers, Steve Gadd has played on countless hit records spanning a variety of genres. His versatility, impeccable timing, and signature grooves have made him an icon in the drumming world.
Clyde Stubblefield
As James Brown’s drummer, Clyde Stubblefield played a crucial role in the development of funk music. His signature drum breaks, particularly on the track “Funky Drummer,” have been widely sampled and continue to influence drummers across various genres.
These drummers stand out for their exceptional technique, innovative playing styles, and contributions to the evolution of drumming. Their work has inspired generations of musicians and left an indelible mark on the history of music.
If you are looking to form a new band or add a new member, BandMix has a number of drummers available.
