Top 30 Legendary Rock Drummers

Van Halen

It’s been fairly easy for the rhythm section of Van Halen to have been historically overshadowed by the larger-than-life personalities of David Lee Roth and Eddie Van Halen. Still, this takes nothing away from the elder Van Halen brother’s prowess behind the drum kit. Alex Van Halen’s work alongside bassist Michael Anthony actually provides some excellent textural dynamics behind Eddie’s guitar pyrotechnics. Additionally, Alex’s blissfully-busy sounding drum intro to Van Halen’s “Hot For Teacher” has gone on to become something of a classic rock proving ground for young drummers honing their skills. There’s something to be said about Alex Van Halen’s rock-solid chops, a dependability that always assisted the driving groove of Van Halen’s back catalog.

Emerson, Lake & Palmer

There are many great rock drummers that have plied their trade with a variety of acts over the years. Carl Palmer cut his teeth with Arthur Brown and proto-metal legends Atomic Rooster before eventually making his way to the supergroup that partially bears his name. Emerson, Lake & Palmer were among one of progressive rock’s most dizzyingly adept groups, balancing classical influences with heady jazz-fusion chops. Palmer’s expertise as a drummer assisted ELP’s musical cause, spinning a complex web of rhythms behind the band’s expansive sound. This was no mere timekeeper, but instead a musician’s musician, lifting up rock drumming to the level of high art.

Missing Persons & Frank Zappa


It takes a certain type of elite-level musician to join the esteemed ranks of a Frank Zappa ensemble. Luckily, Terry Bozzio was just the sort of A-list talent that seemed destined for drumming greatness. There is a charm to Bozzio’s personality behind the kit that lifts up the man’s energetic and physically demanding style. Jazz fusion, hard rock and even New Wave styles seem to have come easy to this journeyman drummer. Terry Bozzio has excelled in everything from groups of his own, like Missing Persons, to collaborating with Fantomas and guesting on songs like “I Will Protect You,” from nu-metal icons Korn.

KISS

There have been a number of excellent drummers that have performed with KISS over the years. Eric Carr died tragically young from heart cancer, and is profoundly missed by his fans. Eric Singer played with KISS off and on up until their retirement in 2023. It’s Peter Criss that was one-fourth of KISS’ iconic original lineup, however, having joined after the dissolution of his former band, Chelsea. To some, Criss’ skills as a drummer feel somewhat overrated, while his lead vocals on KISS hits like “Black Diamond” and “Beth” are notably distinctive and soulful. What distinguishes Criss’ contributions to KISS and makes them feel essential to the band’s early growth is the varied influences from other genres of music that Criss brought to the band.

Jeff Beck Group, Rainbow & Black Sabbath

We realize that we’ve listed three bands here for Cozy Powell, but the reality is that this British drummer has recorded much, much more than that over the years! The Jeff Beck Group and Bedlam helped kickstart Powell’s hard rocking pedigree, while stints in Rainbow and Black Sabbath solidified the man as one of heavy metal’s most reliable drummers. Powell’s ability to be both hard-hitting and restrained assisted albums like Rainbow’s “Rising” and “Headless Cross” by Black Sabbath to achieve cult classic status. Meanwhile, Powell’s blues roots worked wonders on the early Whitesnake material, prior to that band’s explosion as a hair metal stage success.

Mötley Crüe

It’s perhaps an unfair misconception that the glam rock metal scene of the 1980s was totally bereft of musical talent. This couldn’t be further from the truth, as evidenced by the superior skinsman-ship of Mötley Crüe drummer Tommy Lee. The man’s skills behind the drum kit wasn’t just limited to the showmanship of his revolving stage set-up that thrilled audiences. Instead, Tommy Lee was a timekeeper who could be flashy, while remaining dominant and aggressive throughout a song. The double bass aggression of early Crüe jams like “Live Wire” were fundamental to heavy metal’s cool and dangerous reputation throughout the ‘80s. Meanwhile, latter-day Crüe hits like “Dr. Feelgood” were mid-tempo jams that relied heavily on Lee’s heavy hands.

Black Oak Arkansas, Ozzy Osbourne & Whitesnake

There are few rock drummers out there as authoritative as Tommy Aldridge. The man’s place behind the kit has been a story of dominating double bass grooves and terrorizing tom-tom work. Tommy Aldridge held a long tenure with sleazy southern rock pioneers Black Oak Arkansas before presiding over drums for both Ozzy Osbourne and Whitesnake. The latter group’s “Slip of the Tongue” album included a particular barnburner titled “Wings of the Storm,” which made the best use of Aldridge’s insane skills. He also recorded the drums for Osbourne’s iconic “Bark at the Moon,” and helped forge the ex-Black Sabbath front man’s early years as a live act.

Eagles

Drummer-singers remain something of an anomaly today, but Don Henley helped make this idea cool way back in the early seventies. Henley’s requirements as a lead vocalist essentially mean that the drums for Eagles songs generally don’t achieve heights of virtuosity. Then again, they don’t really need to, do they? Instead, Henley’s drumming is laid-back, like the California sun. This allows the guitars and vocal harmonies to shine, while the drums keep a steady and rhythmic back-beat. There’s something to be said about performing for the song, after all, and this is essentially where Don Henley tends to shine.

Red Hot Chili Peppers & Chickenfoot

One need only glance at the resume of Chad Smith to know that this drummer is the real freakin’ deal. Smith’s chops are beyond reproach at this point, having collaborated with everyone from Deep Purple’s Glenn Hughes to Dua Lipa, Post Malone and Eddie Vedder. It’s this versatility that sits at the center of why Smith is so in demand by so many people. The man simply knows how to achieve a great groove. It’s not only the funky alternative sounds of the Red Hot Chili Peppers that’s made Chad Smith famous, however, nor the classic hard rock of Chickenfoot. Instead, it’s how this drummer always works to the song, making each recorded collaboration better than his last.

Dream Theater

It’s perhaps the biggest softball on this list. Mike Portnoy from Dream Theater is one of THE first names that comes up whenever modern progressive metal is discussed. This is no accident, either, because Portnoy helped redefine the genre back when his band, Dream Theater formed as Majesty in 1985. Recorded efforts like “Images and Words” and “Awake” proved that heady, mathematical metal could also be diverse and melodic. Portnoy and his DT bandmates even achieved surprise single success with the tune “Pull Me Under.” Meanwhile, the drumming on those early records, as complex as it was, always remained memorably driving and dedicated to Dream Theater’s intelligent songwriting.

The Band


If ever there was a gold standard for drummers that also sang, Levon Helm would have to be in the conversation. He worked with a truly underrated group called The Band, known for touring with Bob Dylan before venturing out on their own acclaimed career. Helm was the only American in the mostly Canadian band. That fact helped bring an added authenticity to their folksy tales and Southern fables that they often explored. His singing ability also never took precedence over his percussion skills. With a charismatic style, he ensured that every track felt like its own distinct blend of roots and country rock.

Santana


While Michael Shrieve’s work with Santana isn’t mentioned as much as others in the pantheon of rock drummers, he served an important role during the group’s breakout period. He and the band received an invitation to Woodstock that put them into the history books with an amazing performance. Captured in the event’s official documentary, Shrieve’s work on “Soul Sacrifice” is forever an incredible showcase for high-powered drumming. His lively input on eight Santana records never ceased to enhance any of their productions. When the act was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the percussionist was included among the essential members that shaped their diverse sound.

Multiple Artists


He might not have been known for being in a band, but Steve Gadd made a significant impact on drumming for several decades. His session work ranks among the best of the 70s, with an adaptive skill set that suited any style. Some of his greatest collaborators include James Taylor and even Paul Simon. For the latter, he played on the track “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover.” Next to his work with solo artists, Gadd also recorded with Steely Dan on their album “Aja.” His two drum solos on the title track still blow people away with their rapid-fire rhythms. This only covers a small portion of a never-ending career where he’s added a jazz flair to many memorable rock tunes.

Chicago


Of the many original members of Chicago, Danny Seraphine remains their unsung superstar. His dynamic rolls and fills provide the perfect accent on their finest work. On the band’s first album, Seraphine immediately made himself known on “Beginnings.” The group’s rapidly changing sound in the 70s always needed his drums to deliver an extra shock to the system. His finest achievements on his kit have an effortless feeling, alternating between complete control and a wonderfully freestyle quality. Although he asked to leave Chicago in 1990, his efforts on their first nineteen albums always stood out and surprised audiences.

Yes & King Crimson


Most drummers are lucky if they leave an impression on one group. That’s why Bill Bruford’s work with both Yes and King Crimson is fantastic. By producing some of the more experimental and detailed music of the late 60s and 70s, each band became integral to the progressive rock scene. Bruford co-founded Yes and performed on their classic releases such as “The Yes Album” and “Close to the Edge.” Any fans of their songs “Long Distance Runaround” or “Roundabout” will hear textbook cases of his ingenuity. His later work with King Crimson on 80s albums such as “Discipline” represent some of the more daring pieces of musical excellence. Not to be outdone, his highly recognized career also included touring with Genesis and multiple solo records.

Toto


Jeff Porcaro is generally known as the drummer for the hitmaking collective Toto. He contributed to many great singles, with his drum pattern for the song “Rosanna” regarded as an influential piece. Porcaro’s fast hands kept up any time signature with complete ease and precision. Some of his best work was for other legendary acts. His reputation as a major session player in the 70s and 80s put him in a category all his own. Over the years Porcaro played for everyone from Boz Scaggs to Michael Jackson. Whether he was with his main band or working in the studio for someone else, he never let his tracks be boring.

Tool


Tool is an alternative metal band that grew a considerable audience after their 90s breakthrough. Their success as a cult rock group is in part because of Danny Carey’s expertise on the drums. Honestly, it feels like no time signature is too complicated for this performer. He has the ability to run through their difficult setlist like it’s a light breeze. Any percussionist that can articulate the rhythms of “Sober” or “Schism” deserves a mention for their artistry. Studying the greatest rock and jazz drummers, Carey incorporates a whole host of techniques that have put him on lists next to his heroes. Anyone who doubts his progressive drumming prowess should look no further than his work on “Pneuma.”

Queen


Queen simply personified glam rock. And Roger Taylor’s drums were every bit as integral to their bombastic sound. While Freddie Mercury and Brian May were often considered the two stars of the band, Taylor competed for the spotlight in many noteworthy tracks. His intensity kicks off the hard rock sequence of “Bohemian Rhapsody,” shining bright on an already awesome song. As the group transitioned into their arena phase, the performer also adapted his playing to suit crowd-pleasing tunes like “We Will Rock You.” If his varied talents behind the kit weren’t enough, he’s also got a killer voice.

Nirvana, Queens of the Stone Age & Them Crooked Vultures


Dave Grohl’s chemistry with his Nirvana bandmates created a strong bond that helped to catapult them to success. On “Nevermind,” Grohl fills the entire record with career-best recordings. His opening part to “Smells Like Teen Spirit” is only one of his welcome additions to rock history. Grohl brought them the same energy to their follow-up “In Utero,” defining his role as the premier drummer of grunge music. After the group dissolved, the musician played on the early Foo Fighter albums and as a one-time player for Queens of the Stone Age. He even got to play with hero John Paul Jones in supergroup Them Crooked Vultures. This epic gig further established him as an alternative rock star with a natural rhythm.

Deep Purple


Deep Purple doesn’t always get the credit they deserve for their 60s and 70s output. Drummer Ian Paice was part of their winning formula in their prime, playing on “Smoke on the Water” and “Highway Star.” The latter includes just one example of his style that went on to inspire many metal and hard rock drummers. He’s also the one member that stuck around for every incarnation of the band, bringing his loud and driving sound to each and every track. Paice’s ability to keep up with the group’s forays into psychedelic, metal, and other rock subgenres show how his enduring presence is in music.

The Rolling Stones


Until his death in 2021, Charlie Watts was a vital piece of The Rolling Stones’ lineup. While his bandmates stole the spotlight, he made sure that every track was rhythmically whole. Watt’s also the perfect case for a drummer who didn’t need to be flashy. “Miss You” is entirely incomplete without his instantly recognizable beats behind it. Other classics from their early 60s period to their more daring 70s releases all feature Watts as a constant and reliable element. He was also regarded as the heartbeat to rock’s longest-serving band. For a band as notable as the Rolling stones, that is no small feat.

Genesis


Sometimes it’s important to remind people of Phil Collins’ contributions to drumming beyond “In the Air Tonight.” Before taking center stage in the music world as a solo artist, he honed his skills in Genesis. His early days in the band consisted of elaborate and progressive compositions. He mainly plays drums behind lead singer Peter Gabriel. Once Gabriel left, Collins filled the void with his own distinctive vocals. He guided the group through the end of their progressive period and into a more pop-oriented sound to great success. Regardless of the subgenre, Collins brings the heat with assured drum patterns.

The Jimi Hendrix Experience


There’s only a handful of drummers that could keep up with Jimi Hendrix. Playing with the best guitarist in rock, Mitch Mitchell held his own as a formidable musician himself. His lasting impact on The Jimi Hendrix Experience permeates through every second of their recorded material. There are normal cymbals and then there’s Mitchell’s cymbals, which create a beautiful cacophony on the track “Foxey Lady.” He and Noel Redding backed up the legendary shredder and, in the process, became legends themselves for their efforts on other classics like “Voodoo Child (Slight Return).” If anybody could deliver the goods and standout out next to a true artist, it was Mitchell.

Pink Floyd


Nick Mason is as important to the sonic landscape of Pink Floyd as Roger Waters or David Gilmour. While his drum parts don’t always receive the same attention as Gilmour’s solos, his work on “Live at Pompeii'' is a particular standout. Mason’s presence is deeply felt on every single studio album because it spans the many diverse eras of the group. Any listener who enjoys “The Dark Side of the Moon” has to salute Mason’s songwriting credits that include “Speak to Me” and “Time.” He disregarded any one style in favor of his own imaginative approach to percussion on Floyd’s many concept albums.

The Police


More than almost any drummer from the late 70s and early 80s, Stewart Copeland was more interested in the drums than just hollow showmanship. His work with The Police combines elements of classic rock, punk, and jazz into an effective approach. He played his instruments with an amazing ear for unique beats and reliable grooves. Contributing pristine parts to a collection of unmistakable hits, Copeland was the true backbone of the new wave group. Few artists can play on tracks as varied as “Roxanne” and “Wrapped Around Your Finger” without breaking a sweat. While he’s achieved much more than his efforts with The Police, he’ll forever be known as an essential piece of the successful trio.

The Beatles


It almost goes without saying that Ringo Starr is the most famous drummer in music history. His steady pulse helped build the early pop sound of the group. Before they went into the studio full-time, Starr was already experimenting with more refined beats. His work on “Ticket to Ride” makes for one of his better performances due to its unique patterns. Another one of his best efforts is on “Rain,” an underrated Beatles’ single with wonderful drum rolls. If anything, Starr’s achievements were largely ignored until reappraisals reminded everyone of his genius. His fame and namesake aside, this artist has a catalog full of worthy tracks to rediscover.

Cream


A drummer’s drummer through and through, Ginger Baker influenced a generation of performers with his work in Cream. His rhythms progressed the artform beyond just a simple drum arrangement. Backing Jack Bruce and Eric Clapton, Baker infused his beats with a variety of influences from the jazz world and beyond. Although his work with the band only lasted two years, he was an essential part of their four studio albums. The drum solo on “Toad” is only a fraction of his accomplishments behind the kit. Even if you didn’t count his work in Blind Faith or other efforts, his presence in rock history wouldn't be lost on any of his countless admirers.

Rush


Neil Peart was known by many Rush fans as the true heart of the band. With one of the biggest kits in rock music, the drummer played the instrument as well as anyone in the history of the genre. Not to be outdone, Peart also had time to write lyrics for the group. His one-of-a-kind skills and lightning-fast reflexes produced beats for many progressive classics. “2112” is just one of a slew of musical projects that the performer released for the world. Alongside two of the best instrumentalists ever, the technical wizard never failed to wow a crowd with a signature fill or a masterful drum solo.

The Who


A true wild child of rock and roll, Keith Moon was also a master at controlled chaos. His work with The Who stands the test of time as awe-inspiring percussion. As his bandmate Pete Townshend wrote many epic songs, Moon layered in some heavy hits and cymbal crashes. The likes of “Won’t Get Fooled Again” wouldn’t feel the same without the musicians’ signature performance. Beyond his powerful showmanship, Moon also broke ground as a destructive stage presence. His sudden death in 1978 was a massive tragedy. Who knows how much he could’ve achieved with his inimitable talents.

Led Zeppelin


Often considered the greatest drummer of any rock band, John Bonham earns his title with every single track in Led Zeppelin’s history. His contributions to the group are integral to their success and enduring legacy. Bonham’s beats are the definition of “in the pocket,” providing the hypnotic pulse of rock’s greatest singles. The performer’s work has been taught, sampled, and copied for good reason. Songs like “Whole Lotta Love” or the band’s rendition of “When the Levee Breaks” never fail to get listeners pumped. He’s also a skilled technician with “Fool in the Rain'' being among the more difficult patterns to replicate. Even after dying much too young, Bonhams’ continued to inspire rockers for generations.






What, to you, is the mark of a truly great drummer? Let us know in the comments!




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