Our top 5 drummers  

1. John Bonham (1948 – 1980) 

John Bonham was well known for his speed, power and distinctive sound, which is heavily influential to modern-day drumming. He used a mix of playing techniques to achieve his playing style, such as bass drum triplets and heavy tom lead solos. His work with Led Zeppelin has earned him the title of the greatest drummer of all time.

2. Keith Moon (1946 – 1978) 

Keith Moon is often considered one of the greatest drummers in rock music history – and this is largely because of his unique style, with him often choosing to emphasise the toms and crash cymbals. He was widely recognised as a master of dynamic control and has become a huge influence on many modern day drummers.

3. Stewart Copeland (1952 – ) 

Stewart Copeland helped define the Police’s sound with his strong muti-genre influences. He often used a combination of reggae, jazz, and latin genres (to name a few) within his drumming to create a distinctive groove. His rhythmic ability is well respected throughout today’s drumming community and has earned him his place within our top five greatest drummers.

4. Hal Blaine (1929 – 2019) 

Hal Blaine is one of the most recorded drummers of all time. He featured on over 100 US top 10 hits and had an incredible ability to adapt to any genre. I strongly believe everyone will have heard his playing on multiple tracks, even if they don’t realise it, which explains why he is one of the greats!

5. Buddy Rich (1917 – 1987) 

Buddy Rich had exceptional technique, speed, and precision in his drumming. He often preferred to play using a traditional grip, which makes his speed and accuracy even more exceptional. His energetic solos and passion for playing have inspired me in my drumming, as I’m sure they’ve inspired many others.

The greatest drummers of all time 

1. John Bonham (1948 – 1980) 

The powerhouse behind Led Zeppelin’s iconic sound, John Bonham’s heavy drumming helped redefine rock in the late ’60s and ’70s. Bonham’s energetic playing was precise yet powerful, producing some of the most memorable beats in rock history, such as the thunderous “When the Levee Breaks” and the complex syncopations of “Good Times Bad Times”.

His on-stage presence was just as dynamic – Bonham played with a relentless energy. His innovative use of the bass drum and complex time signatures set him apart, as did his iconic drum solos particularly “Moby Dick”. 

John Bonham’s contribution to rock drumming has earned him the title of one the most influential drummers of all time. He famously used the Ludgwig Supraphonic snare and drum kit combo to create his iconic sound.

2. Keith Moon (1946 – 1978) 

Keith Moon was the legendary drummer for The Who, one of the most influential rock bands of the ’60s and ’70s. He was unpredictable in his drumming, giving the band their “edge” and making them all the more exciting to listen to and watch live.

His drumming was wildly unorthodox, relying heavily on cymbal crashes and rapid tom fills, rather than traditional beats. This frenetic approach helped define songs like “My Generation” and “Won’t Get Fooled Again,” solidifying his reputation. 

Unlike most drummers, he often disregarded the conventional role of keeping time, leaving that responsibility to The Who’s bassist, John Entwistle. Moon’s drumming was fluid and chaotic, often described as “lead drumming,” where he played with the same flair and improvisation as a lead guitarist. 

3. Stewart Copeland (1952 – ) 

The Police drummer Stewart Copeland spans styles and genres in his drumming. As a key figure in new wave and rock, his drumming blends reggae rhythms with punk energy, creating the distinctive sound that defined The Police. Plus, he was memorable to watch, with extreme on-stage energy. 

His use of intricate hi-hat patterns and syncopated beats can be heard in songs such as “Roxanne” and “Message in a Bottle”. His contributions to music have left a lasting legacy, influencing drummers across multiple genres. 

4. Hal Blaine (1929 – 2019) 

Hal Blaine was a legendary session drummer and an essential part of Wrecking Crew, a collective of elite musicians that played on countless hits during the ’60s and ’70s. His drumming can be heard across genres, from pop and rock to soul, helping to define the sound of classic records by artists like The Beach Boys, Simon & Garfunkel, and The Ronettes. 

Blaine’s style was precise yet adaptable, allowing him to craft beats that perfectly fit each song. His use of innovative techniques, like the famous “Be My Baby” drum intro, became iconic. He features on over 35,000 recorded tracks! So it goes without saying that Blaine’s influence on modern music is unmatched and he’s left a strong legacy for future drummers to follow. 

5. Buddy Rich (1917 – 1987) 

Buddy Rich is universally regarded as one of the greatest jazz drummers of all time. Known for his work with big bands such as Tommy Dorsey and his own Buddy Rich Big Band, Rich’s drumming style was both powerful and precise. His energy on stage showcased rapid and complex solos that set an exceptional new standard for jazz drumming.

Rich’s technical mastery was second to none. He was famous for his blazing speed, often executing incredibly fast single-stroke rolls with ease. And his influence extended far beyond jazz, inspiring drummers across all genres.

6. Phil Collins (1951 – )

We couldn’t put together a list of the greatest drummers and not include Phil Collins. His most iconic track, “In the Air Tonight”, is best characterised by that iconic drum fill, showcasing the gated reverb sound that became a signature of ’80s music. If anyone’s going to create a memorable drum fill, it’s Phil Collins. 

Collins gained fame as the drummer and later frontman of Genesis, blending progressive rock with pop. But it’s not just these two genres that influence Collins, you’ll also find the odd time signatures of jazz weaved into his drumming. His playing is powerful and expressive, and he’s certainly one of the greats.

7. Ginger Baker (1939 – 2019) 

Ginger Baker, best known for his work with Cream and Blind Faith, was known for his fusion of jazz, African, and rock rhythms. His style was explosive yet controlled and comprised intricate patterns and lengthy solos. The use of double bass drums also set him apart from other drummers around, helping to define the heavy sound of late ’60s rock. 

Beyond rock, he explored world music, collaborating with African artists like Fela Kuti. His impact on modern drumming is immense.

8. Ringo Starr (1940 – )  

His drumming might be minimalist, but there’s no denying that Ringo Starr is one of the most well-known drummers in the world, not least because he was part of one of the most influential bands. 

During his time with The Beatles, he played a key role in shaping the sound of modern pop and rock. His style was effective, delivering exactly what each song needed without overpowering the other instruments, he’d then come in with subtle yet innovative rhythms that complemented the song’s melody. 

To hear his drumming and some of the unique patterns that came from his left-handed drumming on a right-handed kit, listen to “Come Together” and “Ticket to Ride”. 

9. Bernard Purdie (1939 – ) 

Renowned session drummer Bernard Purdie has worked with legendary artists such as Aretha Franklin, Steely Dan, and James Brown. He is best known for his soul, funk, and R&B drumming. In fact, there’s even a groove named after him: the “Purdie Shuffle”, a syncopated groove.

Purdie’s drumming is easily identifiable through the tight, in-the-pocket rhythms and intricate hi-hat work, making his performances feel effortless yet complex.  

10. Neil Peart (1952 – ) 

Neil Peart, the legendary drummer of Rush, has some seriously exceptional technical skill, showcasing a style that’s intricate, precise, and characterised by complex time signatures and extended fills.

Peart’s live performances are energetic, with lengthy solos becoming a staple of his shows. He was also an innovative composer and lyricist, writing many of Rush’s lyrics. And his influence stretched far beyond rock, as he incorporated jazz and big band styles into his playing later in his career. 

For drummers inspired by Peart, we highly recommend the Sabian Paragon Performance Set. These three cymbals deliver a bright, explosive sound – perfect for replicating Peart’s dynamic style. 

11. Jeff Porcaro (1954 – 1992) 

Toto drummer Jeff Porcaro left a great legacy in pop, rock, and R&B music. He popularised the “half-time shuffle”, a rhythm combining elements of jazz, rock, and funk. His subtle yet intricate drumming gave Toto’s songs their distinctive feel, balancing technical skill with smooth groove. 

Porcaro also worked as a session drummer for artists like Michael Jackson, Steely Dan, and Paul McCartney, showcasing his versatility across genres.  

12. Karen Carpenter (1950 – 1983) 

Karen Carpenter was a pioneer for women in the music industry. 

She began as The Carpenter’s drummer before moving to lead vocals. Her style was smooth and precise, with an emphasis on simplicity and clean execution, often playing a standard kit with finesse rather than flashy techniques. Carpenter moved effortlessly between drumming and singing – she was a rare talent.  #

13. Dave Grohl (1969 – ) 

As drummer of Nirvana, Dave Grohl helped shape the sound of grunge. With his hard-hitting, aggressive style, his work on albums like Nevermind defined the raw, powerful drumming of ’90s rock, making him one of the most iconic drummers in the world. 

After Nirvana, Grohl founded Foo Fighters. Although he’s transitioned to a frontman role, he still occasionally returns to drumming, notably for Queens of the Stone Age. Grohl’s style blends simplicity with raw power, focusing on creating a heavy, driving beat.

14. Steve Gadd (1945 – ) 

Steve Gadd is one of the most influential jazz, rock, and studio drummers. Best known for his work with Paul Simon, Steely Dan, Eric Clapton, and Chick Corea, Gadd’s drumming has some incredible precision, groove, and technical sophistication. His signature lick is the military-inspired “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover” groove.

Gadd is legendary for his impeccable timing and subtle use of dynamics, and that’s why he’s a popular choice for studio work across genres. His ability to adapt to pretty much any musical environment has made him a very well-respected drummer.

15. Mick Fleetwood (1947 – ) 

Mick Fleetwood anchored Fleetwood Mac’s sound through their various stylistic shifts. From the bluesy origins of Peter Green’s era to the iconic rock sound of albums like Tango in the Night, Fleetwood’s drumming is ever-evolving. He’s one of the most legendary drummers, creating memorable subtle fills like the hook in “Dreams”, which is instantly recognisable.  

16. Travis Barker (1975 – ) 

Travis Barker is renowned not only for his work with Blink-182 but also for his extensive collaborations across multiple genres. He blends punk rock with hip-hop rhythms, and this has led to work with artists like Machine Gun Kelly, Lil Wayne, and Post Malone, with him often adding live drum layers to hip-hop beats.  

Barker’s drumming technique is fast, aggressive, and precise, with a signature use of rapid snare rolls and heavy kick drums. He also frequently incorporates rudiments and drum fills that reflect jazz and marching band techniques, adding depth to his otherwise raw sound.

17. Alex Van Halen (1953 – )  

 Alex Van Halen’s drumming is powerful and technically very complex; it’s what helped define his band’s hard rock sound. Songs like “Hot for Teacher” are a great example of his thunderous double bass technique and jazz-influenced syncopation.

Van Halen merges speed with excellent precision, making him a key figure in the rock scene of the ’70s and ’80s, in which he often chose to use bigger drum kits to deliver arena-shaking beats. He even famously performed with a broken hand, tying his drumsticks to his wrist!

18. Tré Cool (1972 – ) 

The driving force behind Green Day, Tré Cool is one of the most well-known punk rock drummers. With his fast-paced, high-energy drumming, he helped define the sound of the band’s most iconic albums, including Dookie and American Idiot. Cool’s style is aggressive yet controlled, with dynamic fills and relentless beats.

On stage, Tré Cool is famous for his animated performances, adding personality to his playing and blending precision with showmanship. 

19. Josh Freese (1972 – )  

Josh Freese is a session drummer known for his ability to adapt to various genres. He’s been involved with bands such as The Vandals, A Perfect Circle, Nine Inch Nails, and Devo, as well as performing live with The Offspring and Weezer. He’s one of the most in-demand drummers in rock, punk, and alternative music. 

20. Lars Ulrich (1963 – )  

As the drummer for Metallica, Lars Ulrich is probably one of the most, if not the most, influential figures in heavy metal drumming. His style is aggressive and thrash-inspired, with rapid double bass drumming and powerful fills being staples of tracks such as “One” and “Battery”. 

Ulrich played a major role in the band’s creative direction, contributing to both songwriting and production. If you want to emulate his sound, Tama Starclassic drum kits are a great fit as Ulrich has used a number of Tama drum kits throughout his career. 

21. Nicko McBrain (1952 – ) 

Nicko McBrain, drummer for Iron Maiden since 1982, is another key figure in heavy metal drumming. His work with the band, especially on albums like Powerslave and Seventh Son of a Seventh Son, showcases his fast, intricate playing style. He’s known for his single-bass drumming technique, which is uncommon in metal (double-bass pedals tend to be the go-to). 

22. Clyde Stubblefield (1943 – 2017) 

Clyde Stubblefield was best known as James Brown’s drummer, and he’s a true legend in the world of funk. He played on many of Brown’s biggest hits, including “Cold Sweat” and “Funky Drummer”, the latter featuring a breakbeat that became one of the most sampled in music history.

Stubblefield had amazing rhythmic creativity and impeccable timing, which shaped the groove-driven sound of James Brown’s band. 

His drumming style was tight, syncopated, and full of feel, making him the “Funky Drummer” for good reason. He never overpowered, but his beats laid the foundation for the band. His influence extends well beyond funk; his breakbeats have also been sampled countless times in genres like hip-hop and rock.

23. Roger Taylor (1949 – )  

His talent for shifting from explosive rock anthems to softer ballads showed off his versatility, especially in a band like Queen which is known for crossing genres. His energetic stage presence and ability to play multiple instruments made him stand out even more. And he wasn’t just drumming! Taylor was often singing harmonies while playing.

24. Taylor Hawkins (1972 – 2022) 

Taylor Hawkins, drummer for Foo Fighters and formerly Alanis Morissette’s touring band, was a rock legend through and through. His explosive style helped define the Foo Fighters’ sound on albums like The Colour and the Shape and Wasting Light. What made his drumming stand out was that perfect mix of raw power and precision.

On stage, Taylor Hawkins was pure energy, showcasing raw passion and undeniable charisma. He didn’t just stick to the drums either – he often jumped on lead vocals during Foo Fighters’ live shows. Outside of the Foo Fighters, Hawkins had his own projects, such as Taylor Hawkins and the Coattail Riders, where he really got to flex his songwriting skills.

25. Chad Smith (1961 – ) 

Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith is quite unique in the way he blends the energetic funk of classic drummers like John Bonham with hard-hitting rock. This is why he’s so great for the genre-bending sound of albums such as Blood Sugar Sex Magik and Californication. 

His versatility has also led to collaborations with artists like Ozzy Osbourne and Sammy Hagar in Chickenfoot. 

26. Larry Mullen Jr (1961 – ) 

Larry Mullen Jr. blends post-punk rhythms with innovative rock beats, making him integral to U2’s signature sound. His drumming is precise and steady but manages to incorporate elements of funk and electronic music, contributing to the band’s evolving sound, particularly on albums like Achtung Baby.

Mullen is meticulous about sound and timing, famously detecting timing errors with incredible accuracy during recording sessions. 

27. JR Robinson (1954 – ) 

JR Robinson is one of the most recorded drummers in music history, renowned for his session work across pop, rock, funk, and R&B. He has played on iconic tracks like Michael Jackson’s “Rock With You” and “Off the Wall”, as well as Steve Winwood’s “Higher Love”.  

His steady playing is deceptively simple but adds great energy to every track. Whether it’s a ballad or a high-energy pop song, Robinson’s ability to adapt to any genre has made him an in-demand session drummer for decades.  

To achieve Robinson’s sound, the Paiste 24” John JR Robinson 2002 Swish Ride Cymbal is the perfect choice. The ride features a printed notation of the drum introduction to Michael Jackson’s “Rock With You”.

28. Phil Rudd (1954 – )  

AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd is known for his minimalist yet incredibly powerful drumming style. Joining AC/DC in 1975, Rudd played on iconic albums like Highway to Hell and Back in Black, where his precise, no-frills approach allowed the band’s riffs to take centre stage.  

29. Clem Burke (1954 – ) 

Clem Burke, drummer for Blondie, played a pivotal role in shaping the band’s punk and new wave sound. His energetic, fast-paced drumming on hits like “Heart of Glass” and “One Way or Another” set Blondie apart from other bands of the era. Burke’s style incorporates rapid hi-hat work and immense power. 

His versatility as a drummer allowed Blondie to explore elements of reggae, disco, and hip-hop. In addition to Blondie, Burke has collaborated with artists like The Ramones and The Eurythmics. 

30. Aaron Spears (1976 – 2023) 

Aaron Spears worked with the likes of Usher, Ariana Grande, and The Backstreet Boys, excelling in R&B, pop, and gospel genres. He was known for using intricate ghost notes and syncopation, often showcased in his explosive live performances. His solo on Usher’s “Caught Up” during the Live in London tour became iconic and is studied by drummers worldwide. 

Beyond his performance skills, Spears was also an educator, sharing his knowledge through clinics and workshops. 

31. Charlie Watts (1941 – 2021) 

Charlie Watts was one of the most iconic drummers of all time. As the drummer of possibly the biggest rock band, The Rolling Stones, he was a master of subtlety and restraint, defining rock drumming with his minimalist style.

He’s known for blending blues, rock, and jazz influences, and on stage, he perfectly balanced the energy of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards with a calm, collected demeanour. 

32. Bill Ward (1948 – )  

A crucial drummer in developing heavy metal, Bill Ward’s work with Black Sabbath set the standard for that heavy, doom-laden sound. His playing is powerful yet dynamic, combining hard-hitting rhythms with jazz-inspired fills and swing, which added an unpredictable element to the band’s sound. 

33. Chris Dave (1973 – )  

Another drummer who effortlessly blends styles and crosses genres is Chris Dave, known for his work with D’Angelo, Robert Glasper, and Adele. His work covers R&B, jazz, hip-hop, and more, making him a highly sought-after session and live drummer.

Dave’s drumming is legendary for its intricate rhythms and ability to blend multiple time signatures seamlessly, a skill showcased on albums like D’Angelo’s Black Messiah and Robert Glasper’s Black Radio. 

34. Mike Portnoy (1967 – )  

Mike Portnoy co-founded and was the former drummer of Dream Theater. His intricate, high-energy drumming sculpted the band’s progressive metal sound on albums like Images and Words and Metropolis Pt. 2. With a blend of odd time signatures, fast double bass work, and dynamic fills, Portnoy has earned recognition as one of the most influential drummers in progressive rock. 

35. Dave Lombardo (1965 – )  

Dave Lombardo, best known for his work with Slayer, is a pioneering figure in thrash metal drumming. His aggressive, fast-paced style, particularly in double bass drumming, helped define the genre. You can hear Lombardo’s sheer skill on iconic albums like Reign in Blood which made him a metal drumming legend. 

36. Danny Carey (1961 – ) 

Tool drummer Danny Carey is heavily influenced by jazz, using polyrhythms and odd time signatures in his drumming. Carey’s drumming on albums like Lateralus and Ænima showcases how he can seamlessly shift between heavy, atmospheric, and experimental passages. He also uses custom drum kits and electronic triggers to add further depth to Tool’s live shows.  

37. Steve Jordan (1957 – )  

Steve Jordan is known for his work with artists such as Stevie Wonder, John Mayer, and The Rolling Stones. His career spans multiple genres, from R&B and soul to rock and jazz fusion, and his ability to blend intricate rhythms with a laid-back groove has made him a legendary session player.

38. Ahmir ‘Questlove’ Thompson (1971 – )  

Hip-hop and neo-soul drummer Ahmir ‘Questlove’ Thompson co-founded The Roots in 1987, and as both performer and producer, he helped define the genre. His seamless blend of live instrumentation and sampled beats can be heard on all of The Roots’ albums and collaborations with artists like D’Angelo and Erykah Badu. 

Questlove’s style is precise and groove-driven, using jazz and breakbeat-inspired rhythms to create complex but danceable patterns. On stage, his calm, controlled energy contrasts with his intricate playing. His signature drumsticks, developed with Vic Firth, are designed to reflect his unique drumming style. These sticks are long, lightweight, and slim, making them ideal for drummers who prioritise speed and precision. 

39. Jonathan ‘Sugarfoot’ Mofett (1954 – )  

Known for his work with Michael Jackson, Madonna, and George Michael, Jonathan “Sugarfoot” Moffett is a legendary drummer. Specialising in pop, funk, and R&B, Moffett’s career took off in the 1970s, and he soon became the go-to drummer for high-profile tours, particularly during Michael Jackson’s Bad and Dangerous world tours.

His drumming style features fast footwork on the bass drum, which earned him the nickname “Sugarfoot”. He often plays complex rhythms while maintaining a tight groove. 

40. Shelia E (1957 – ) 

Sheila E. gained fame through her work with Prince and Ringo Starr’s All Starr Band, becoming a pioneering figure in pop, rock, and Latin percussion. She can seamlessly blend Latin rhythms with pop and funk, and her powerful drumming and percussion can be heard on the likes of Prince’s “The Glamorous Life” and “A Love Bizarre”.

It’s not just her drumming that has made her so influential, Sheila E. is also a vocalist and songwriter. 

41. Dave Weckl (1960 – ) 

Dave Weckl is a renowned jazz fusion drummer, best known for his work with the Chick Corea Elektric Band and his solo career. His drumming is legendary for its technical precision, fluidity, and complex rhythms, making him one of the most influential drummers in jazz and fusion. Weckl’s style combines intricate cymbal work, rapid fills, and deep grooves, allowing him to effortlessly shift between genres. 

42. Thomas Lang (1967 – ) 

Thomas Lang is a highly skilled drummer known for his incredible technical expertise and work in progressive rock and fusion genres. He has performed with stOrk and Gianna Nannini and is legendary for his complex polyrhythms and extreme speed. His drumming is highly controlled yet explosive, incorporating advanced footwork and intricate hand techniques. 

43. Benny Greb (1980 – ) 

One of the greatest drummers in the jazz and fusion world is Benny Greb, known for his creative and technically precise playing. He has performed with bands such as Stoppok and The Benny Greb Brass Band, in which he blends jazz, funk, and world music. 

Greb’s emphasis on musicality over any flashy, over-the-top drumming has made him a modern drumming icon. His signature sound is achieved mainly using Sonor Drum Kit. If you want to replicate his sound, the the Benny Greb 13 x 5.75” Signature Snare is ideal. 

44. Tommy Lee (1962 – ) 

Tommy Lee, drummer for Mötley Crüe, is an iconic drummer in glam metal known for his gravity-defying on-stage antics – such as performing upside down on a rotating drum kit. With this kind of skill, how could we not include him on the list?

45. Anika Nilles (1983 – ) 

A highly influential drummer in progressive rock and fusion genres, Anika Nilles gained recognition through her YouTube videos, which have over 25 million views at the time of writing. She has exceptional dynamic phrasing and timing and performs complex polyrhythms with energy and fluidity. 

46. Cozy Powell (1947 – 1998) 

Cozy Powell was a powerhouse drummer known for his work with bands like Rainbow, Black Sabbath, and Whitesnake. He made a name for himself in the hard rock and heavy metal genres with his thunderous playing and exceptional control. Powell’s drumming was both powerful and precise, combining speed with a heavy, driving beat that became his signature. 

47. Vinnie Colaiuta (1956 – ) 

Vinnie Colaiuta is a world-renowned drummer, best known for his work with Frank Zappa, Sting, and Herbie Hancock. His extraordinary versatility across rock, jazz, and pop genres has made him legendary. Colaiuta’s drumming was highly technical, often incorporating complex time signatures and impeccable precision, showcased on tracks like Zappa’s “Joe’s Garage”.

48. Meg White (1974 – ) 

Meg White’s straightforward, primal beats shaped the White Stripes’ sound. She’s known for her minimalist approach to drumming, bringing authenticity and simplicity that is sometimes more impactful than heavy, flashy drumming!

FAQs

Which famous drummers can’t read music?  

Famous drummers who can’t read music include Ringo Starr and Travis Barker. Instead of reading sheet music, they rely on feel, rhythm, and instinct. Their natural talent and dedication have shaped their iconic drumming styles. 

Which song has the hardest drumming part?  

“The Dance of Eternity” by Dream Theater is often considered one of the hardest songs to drum. Its complex time signatures, polyrhythms, and rapid tempo changes make it a drumming challenge even for experts. 

What is the greatest drum solo of all time? 

One of the greatest drum solos of all time is John Bonham’s “Moby Dick” from Led Zeppelin. This iconic solo showcases Bonham’s extraordinary power, speed, and technical mastery.

Final thoughts 

From pioneers of jazz and rock to modern metal and fusion players, the greatest drummers of all time are ones that have shaped the sound of their genres and inspired future generations of drummers. 

Want to read about more drumming legends? Check out our list of the best rock drummers. 

For further reading, check out some of our other drum guides: 

The 49 Best Metal Drummers of All Time

The Best Female Drummers of All Time

The 31 Best Jazz Drummers in the World