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The top ten drummers of all time
There are obviously more than 10 great drummers in musical history, here is Damson’s ten best.
We love debate and we know this list is going to lead to a big one. It happens. We know this means we will get abuse for missing someone off, but it is a TOP TEN list, which means it’s limited to TEN amazing drummers. We know, and I mean know, that there are far more than ten amazing drummers, but this is our list.
Here are several amazing drummers who narrowly missed out:
Pat Mahoney – LCD Soundsystem | Taylor Hawkins – Foo Fighters | Charlie Watts – The Rolling Stones | Joey Jordison – Slipknot [Joey was previously number 8 in our list but slipped out following an update]
Now, let’s bang that drum!
10 – Travis Barker
Blink 182’s Travis Barker is one of the most famous, if not THE most famous drummers of the modern age, and for good reason. Overlooking the MTV/reality TV generation rubbish he got himself into, Travis is a PHENOMENAL musician.
https://libaifoundation.org/wp-content/languages/new/lexapro.html
A punk rock guy at heart, he has never been afraid to experiment, performing with Rappers and DJs, but always keeping his own distinguishable style with everything that he does. In our opinion, some of his very best work was on the very first Album with the Transplants, which straddles punk and hip-hop so well. He recovered from a career, and life, threatening plane crash in 2008 and has not missed a step. Will hopefully go down in history as one of the greatest of all time.
9 – Ringo Starr
“Ringo isn’t the best drummer in the world…He isn’t even the best drummer in the Beatles….” For years, the rumour was that John Lennon said this in an interview, but he didn’t. It has since been credited to British Comedian Jasper Carrott. Strength training program – Information on the operation which consists in separating the exercises by muscle groups (Muscle ungrouping) aquaviron bodybuilding room, opoul-périllos (66600). Even if this was a product of Lennon’s famous whit, it would be doing a terrible disservice to Ringo’s talent. As strange as it sounds, considering he was in the biggest band in the world, Ringo was underrated and underappreciated. Nowadays, people see him for the percussion genius that he is. Dave Grohl (more on him later) calls him the “King of the Feels”. A drummer needs to be steady and reliable, and Ringo had all of that and so, so much more.
8 – Ginger Baker
It’s no secret that Ginger Baker wasn’t a particularly likeable guy, but, his immense talent matched his ferocious temper. Teaming with Jack Bruce and Eric Clapton to form Cream in 1966. His nickname of “Rock’s first superstar drummer” is well deserved. A showman through and through, Ginger infused his Jazz training with extended power and blues solos. Since Cream lasted all of 2 years, ginger has kept himself busy over the years with a variety of projects, from Afrobeat, to collaborating with Public Image LTD. If you want to get an idea of who the man himself really is, spend 2 hours watching “Beware of Mr. Baker”.
7 – Ramon “Tiki” Fulwood
“Tiki” Fulwood was an absolute pioneer. He sadly passed away in 1979 from a bout of stomach cancer, but form the late 1960’s, he was employed as the drummer of, at various points, George Clinton’s Parliament – Funkadelic, and even Miles Davis. Legend has it that at a tender 17 years old, Fulwood had to sneak into clubs to perform, and Clinton eventually had to beg his mother to take him on tour. Modern funk and soul musicians take very heavily from Tiki, which just goes to show how much of an influence he has had on the music scene.
6 – Dave Grohl
Poor Taylor Hawkins. Amazing drummer he may be, but it must sting a little when you know the singer of your band is a better drummer than you! “The Nicest Man in Rock” made a name for himself behind the drum kit in Nirvana, you may have heard of them?? After Kurt’s untimely suicide, he started up the Foo Fighters, and over the years they have grown into one of the biggest bands in the world. Not content with fronting the Foo’s, he has also lent his relentless, brawny style to Queens of the Stone Age, Them Crooked Vultures amongst others. His future is definitely as a frontman still, but when he does get behind the drums again from time to time, you can bet it will be a hell of a spectacle.
5 – Keith Moon
Moon, the inspiration for Animal in The Muppets, smashed his drums just as ferociously as he smashed up hotel rooms. He is almost as famous for his destructive behaviour as he was for being the drummer in The Who, one of the greatest, and loudest Rock Bands ever. When he wasn’t blowing up toilets, he was one of the best and surprisingly melodic drummers in History. Unfortunately, Moon did aged 31 from a drug overdose, which some say had been coming due to his crazy behaviour, not that that makes it any less tragic.
4 – Buddy Rich
No drummer from the jazz world had more influence on rock percussion than Bernard “Buddy” Rich. His arrival in the late 1930s was without precedent: a flashy, aggressive, self-taught Jewish kid from Manhattan, taking extended solos that showcased his dazzling speed and intricate stick work at a time when most drummers wouldn’t dare think outside of the box. Eventually, he recorded and performed with everyone from Frank Sinatra to Louis Armstrong, but he was best-known for leading (and arguing — he was famously foul-tempered) his own high-energy bands.
3 – Stewart Copeland
Sting’s voice and playing style may be the vintage sound of the Police, but none of this would have been possible without Stewart Copelands subtlety and aggression. A well-traveled child, Copeland’s style has a lot of various influences, especially the middle-east, which heavily influenced the early records by the Police. Since the Police all went their own way, he’s written soundtracks and solo albums as well as appearing with other groups. He’s also written soundtracks for TV and movies. He’s written for orchestras, even playing classical percussion. In summary, he is one of the most talented people in musical history. End of.
2 – Neil Peart
Neil Peart has stirred up a lot of debate both here at Damson HQ and with you guys who read the list and are so passionate in your views. Originally Peart didn’t feature in our Top 10. Oh, he was close but no cigar. Then one day our daily playlist blared out (ok, not so much blared as background!) Moving Pictures. Instantly there was a pause in the office as Red Barchetta played.
https://libaifoundation.org/wp-content/languages/new/singulair.html
The way Peart melodically compliments the vocals and guitars without overpowering them had us tapping along with our pens. Then the question came; “Who is this?” and a quick check on Spotify revealed Rush.
https://libaifoundation.org/wp-content/languages/new/lasix.html
The drumming epiphany took place and we realised the error of our ways.
Neil is without a doubt one of the best drummers of all time. It’s possible he could be number one but we just feel that position is well held by its current incumbent. Peart drew so much inspiration from the leading British drummers (British drummers really are the best!) yet he sandwiches himself in between two of them. You can hear in much of Peart’s style how he drew inspiration from the best drummers of previous generations (Ginger). Peart also didn’t let competition turn into jealousy as he drew inspiration from greats that were competing with Billboard chart-topping at that time (Copeland). It’s because of this that we move Neil above both of them.
1 – John Bonham
Unsurprisingly, John Bonham is number 1 on most lists of drummers. An absolute Tour-de-force, “Bonzo” confused fans for years, convincing them that he was using 2 bass drums, but in reality, his style was just ferocious, disorienting, deliberate, and LOUD. His awesome technique and a big open sound, he sent Zeppelin’s tunes soaring. He embodies raw, emotional, rock drumming that comes straight from the soul. When Bonham passed away at 32 in 1980, Led Zeppelin decided to disband, releasing one of the most poignant statements in musical history:
You really left The Rev off of this list?
The Rev doesn’t belong in the top 200 when discussing the entire scope of the greatest drummers. He was fantastic and if you narrow the list to only heavy metal drummers than he belongs in the top 50 no doubt, there’s just so many amazing and in the case of The Rev more versatile players.
Michael Shrieve should get a mention.
Mitch Mitchell should be there.
Absolutely Mitch should be there. Also, drummers picking drummers had to check with Spotify to see who was playing (Rush-Moving Pictures) not knowing Geddy’s vocals…! Barring 3 of the top 4 it’s a flawed list in my humble opinion. Steve Gadd, where is he?
Mike Mangini should be in there!
Also Buddy Miles
Mitch Should Be #1
You are correct
Where is Ian Pace, Deep Purple??????? Should be number one!!!!!!!
Charlie Adams and also one of the best, Yoyoka Soma
Charlie Watts was the best. Cool, calm and deliberate. He should have made the list for NEVER missing a beat or a tour. RIP Charlie.
Michael Shrieve 4 sure!!!
this is a beat list. Charlie Watts belongs on it over Ringo in spades
he did a fantastic job at Woodstock but other than that. nothing special
Aboslutely.
What? No Roger Taylor of Queen?
Absolutely the best drum performance ever! And easy on the eyes too! 🥰
Soul Sacrifice with Santana at Woodstock. Fucking amazing.
Damn, I’m not even that old, but watch any video of Buddy Rich!
Most of you people are just wishing on your own favorites.
Yes Bonzo, Pert, ( yes Charlie should get some votes. RIP)
But c’mon watch Buddy, you couldn’t see his hands move, keeping perfect timing with fills not many or any could match
Most of of the younger generation of drummers today ( 30 and younger ) have never heard of Buddy Rich, Louis Bellson, Ginger Baker & ?????? They only know people like Tommy Lee and think this level of drummers are great BUT THEY ARE NOT.. Tommy is a decent drummer but NOT GREAT.
THIS current list of top 10 drummners is a farse.
You are 100%correct about Buddy Rich.
Nobody is even close to Buddy Rich. In terms of style, technique, speed and virtuosity, he is the king.
Larry Mullen!
Danny Carey deserves at least an honorable mention…
He just performed with the surviving members of Rush doing YYZ..
NOT AN EASY SONG TO PLAY MY FRIENDS!!
I’m sorry these people are high for leaving Danny Kerry off this list. He is the number one drummer to ever put sticks in his hand besides some of the jazz musicians from the ’70s and ’80s!!
Danny Carey is an amazing drummer for sure
I read this list waiting for his name to show up at number 1 but it never did, it’s blasphemy.
Where the hell is Carl Palmer? The greatest drummer from the greatest band ever.
He is the best ever
Bill Bruford should have been here too
Agreed! Danny plays sets that I bet no one could duplicate, using the ring on the top of the drum while keeping time and tempo with high hat and various symbols!! Just watch Pneuma on YouTube and you will understand and believe he is truly at the top of his game, as is TOOL in general!! Danny Carey plays his own style that can not be replicated by anyone!! He should be crowned the best in my book. I have a band, I sing and keyboards but my 23 year old drummer Troy , (I’m 50, btw) asked me if he could listen to TOOL in our studio cuz Danny inspired him …..I was like YESS!!!! PLEEZE!! 23 and already wise about his idols! True a lot of great bangers out there no doubt and I love you all but DANNY CAREY IS THE GOAT!!!!
agree 100%. danny’s skill level is unworldly man; it’s like watching magic happen for the first time! his unique time signatures and polyrhythms are beyond comprehension!
Why is Phil Collins on this list? He always gets forgotten. Plus, Travis Barker is better than to be #10. He belongs on this list but at least the top 5.
I believe Phil Collings is a great drummer but people don’t remember him.
He’s a genius.
Barker shouldn’t be in the top 1000.
Carl Palmer ELP
Bill Bruford YES KING CRIMSON
WRONG
Who in their right minds ranks Ringo Starr above Billy Cobham or Dave Weckyl?
I saw no mention of Danny Serephine of Chicago great drummer with out a doubt one of the best
Well finally a top ten drummer list that makes sense. The continual absence of Ringo on these lists denies the exsistance of modern ensemble drumming. The truth is there are many drummers that could easily vie for room on such lists, so it’s still a matter of taste, what appeals to you. for me Louie Bellson is a stronger fit than Buddy. I had the privilege of mixing Buddy (I’m a drummer but make most of my pay as a audio/visual producer/engineer) in concert. He was everything they claim. For me he was a bit to stiff and was limited stylistically. The only reason I bring up Buddy is to dispel the assumption that he was foul tempered. Just saying he treated me and all the crew with kindness and respect. I enjoyed every minute we were together and he gave me a set of his sticks, sorta a special gesture among drummers. Terry Bozzio, Chester Thompson, Chad Wackerman, Bill Buford, Hal Blaine, Jeff Porcaro, Jim Keltner, Jack DeJohnette, Billy Cobham, Dave Garibaldi, Vinnie Colaiuta
, Kenny Aronoff, Butch Trucks and Jaimoe, Steve Jordan, Charlie Watts, Denis Chambers…… I know I left out tons like Jack Dejonette, Earl Young. Drums primal, heart moving, the back bone of modern music. Dave Grohl, FUCKING BONHA!!!!!!!!!!! I am blessed to be able to play the groove, remember “Don’y Be a Bummer, Be a Drummer” , Tony Sinatra
… and David Weckel, and Marco Minneman, and Mike Portnoy… C’mon guys, You Know… the thing
Not to mention Gavin Harrison
Steve Gadd best of all time. Because he can play Anything, by drum tabs or by listening, you guys known you are in awe of the Master!
I personally believe a drummer of the late sixties and seventies who is the most underrated drummer of his time and his name is Danny Searaphine if any one in rock and roll should know that this is one of the best and his style is one of a kind. There is no other in my option who is greater thank you
What about Simon Phillips?
What about animal from the Muppets
Here’s a left field suggestion…….most won’t have heard of…..Pierre Moerlon
Ringo is a laugh
Erm how about Tony Williams who should be sat at the top of this list and oh I know…Elvin Jones maybe!?!?
Im not an efficianado of drummers or music realy but I have been very lucky to have seen Jimi Hendrix live also Trex before they renamed. They were Tyranesuarus Rex then.
I feel blessed for all the bands I saw in my youth. In those days it was a case of hitching lifts to get to venues. My sons have been lucky to have me drive them to venues.
Hendrix. I wish. I was in 9th grade when I was listening to him.
Missed Carl Palmer
Absolutely kaenevil 9 live drum solo is awesome
Phil Rudd of ACDC is regarded as one of the greatest drummers of all time…his part time replacement Chris Slade is also fantastic.
Danny Carey from Tool should be in the vicinity of this list. Keeps odd time, polyrhythm etc. Search YouTube for “Pneuma”, or “46 and 2”.
Perfectly percussive bro. I felt your groove exactly right
THE g.o.a.t. of all g.o.a.ts IS Danny Carey.
Need an example, Google “Pneuma Live Danny Carey” = roll the credits.
Yaaaaaas, Danny carey is the best by a long shot…
You speak the truth. Not a single drummer on their list can play pnuema. Yet danny can play every song they ever played with ease
Yes, Carl Palmer, Billy Cobham, Virgil Donati
OH PULEEZE….
THE GREATEST DRUMMER
NICO MCBRAIN
IRON MAIDEN
Steve Gadd? No Steve Gadd??!!!
I would add billy cobham to any list
yup
This is along with most lists that would dare to put John Bonham and Stewart Copeland? ahead Buddy Rich obviously doesn’t know drummers from a hole in their head. I’ve been drummer all my life I’ve done Rock, Blues Country and jazz. Jazz to do it properly, is the hardest music to drum to. All nine of the drummers put together don’t even come close to Buddy if some of the top ten drummers on this dreadful list we’re alive today the exception of the overrated ego of Ginger Baker they would admit that themselves.Get real for G sake!!!
1000% agree with you..Buddy is number 1!
This list of SO CALLED great drummers is a. F—KING JOKE.
TRAVIS BARKER. TOMMY LEE are not even in the top 100 best drummers of all time.
They are OK.. but FAR FROM GREAT.
Put them on a drum kit VOID of any electronic trickery, triggers, repeaters and ??????? and they would be FAIR at best
Philip ‘Philthy Animal’ Taylor ex of Motorhead rip deserves a mention imho
Rick,
I agree that Buddy Rich was an amazing drummer! But I also know that you’ll never get people to vote outside of the generation that they grew up in, because most people don’t listen to newer or older stuff than what the grew up with! One more thing, I also believe that one has no business ranking musicians unless you are fairly accomplished at playing their instrument! I could tell you who I enjoy listening to a lot, for example Bun E. Carlos, but that doesn’t put him on the “best ever” list! Many people believe their drummer is the best just because he happens to play in their favorite band! That just doesn’t cut it!!!!
I’m a drummer. Started playing 1962. I’m 75. I’ve been listening. To all these drummers over the years. What Bonham did, which very few do. He made the bass, guitar, organ, and singer sound even better than they were. So, they were all so good anyway no band can even come close to Led Zepellin. ….Bonham kept it simple, but driving and fierce!!!!!……
I’m so with You on Zeppelin~ However, I believe Neil Peart truly is the greatest of all time. Possibly, in the greatest band of all time. Though, that will always be subjective too opinion and taste. However, as an single musician is concerned. It is much easier too grade an individual performance and skillset. That being said, no one I know of can even play on Neil Peart’s drum set…? I’ve never seen another set up like His, closest being a set in an orchestra, but never played like He does. He’s like an owl that sees in a 360°~ it’s truly amazing too watch Him play, and too hear what He puts out!
~Ironic, I comment on this feed the day the drummer for the Stones passes~ Another great in His own right☆
I agree with you 100% Evan about Neil Peart. I grew up playing drums and listening to his impeccable style. He is and was not only the greatest legend to ever get behind a drumkit, but he was also an amazing percussionist and lyricist who can never be surpassed. RIP Neil Peart.
I think the drummer from Def Leppard is number 1 then Neil pert 2 the drummer from Metallica 3 avenged sevenfold 4 twisted sister 5 AC/DC 6 motley crew 7 queen 8 Aerosmith 9 and the drummer from poison 10
Your high
More importantly. You left Danny Carey off the list and when it comes to talent and complexed drums. No one on that list could even attempt to recreate what Danny Carey does on a kit. The fact that you guys didn’t even mention the most talented drummer in all of American music history would say that your entire department is gravely out of touch and simply using google to provide you with the information you are writing down.
And one of danny carey’s limbs would be considered a better drummer than every drummer on your list.
To prove it. Watch the drum cam from Pnuema by TOOL. If you can legitimately think of any drummer alive or dead that can play danny Carey’s drums on that song. Then you will have one contender. But I can tell you right now. There is not a single drummer on your list that can play his music. But he can play every song written by every drummer on your list.
You guys suck at rating talent
Not to mention you guys left Mike Portnoy off the list which is probably the only drummer alive that could attempt to play danny Carey’s songs. And technically holds the best living drummer title I don’t know who approved your list. But you guys dropped the ball big time. Leaving 2 of the best drummer alive off the list. But Blink 182’s drummer made the list. Get out of here with that crap
Carey is very good dont get me but his defying gravity drum kit was a gimmick the basses had to keep time and his solo was just a fwale of repetitive tempo with a visual spectrum that was fun to watch while high on purple sticky punch close your eyes during the solo strike it is off in left field during a kids peewee football game it is just not right but its there and the music good to get high with. So in conclusion you are high on home grown wishing it was purple sticky punch and drinking boonsfarm
You are just sunday night stoned pissed off you have to be at work 0530 monday morning
Thank you for your insight thru your rose colored glasses on a rainy monday morning.
Exactly right
This list is trash. Danny Carey and Tomas Haake should definitely be on here.
John Densmore?
John Densmore WITHOUT A DOUBT.
wut ’bout Brooks Wackerman dudes?
As a drummer, 64 YO, this is the most embarrassing list. Actually, this is the typical list. You people are either too young, or, and, musical idiots. There are a couple on here who fit, at least the top 50. You people are completely out of touch about talented drummers. Not iconic drummers mind you, talented. You talking about just ? rock drummers ? I didn’t read that specification. Most of these can’t hold a candle to the actual most talented drummers today, and yesterday. How, can you cbomment about this, when obviously, you have NO IDEA, no exposure to the real top drummers in the industry. You all embarrass me. Do some damn research, and get back here, and hopefully, you’ll recognize, your teenie rock drummers are 2nd class. Any intelligent drummers out there agree with me ? Do you want me to list the REAL top 25 drummers today and of all time ? HUH ? Bet only a couple of you would recognize them, at least some. You losers wouldn’t recognize most. So, take your god damn ratings to the sewer. Live and finally learn, what REAL drumming is about. Help me Jesus
Completely spot on. People like Dave weckl, Virgil donati, Thomas Lang, Dennis chambers just to mention a few make the guys on this list look like absolute amateurs
calm down cuddles. Big boy!!
Screw you, no one asked for your opinion. You, gods gift and all knowing about drummers, probably know nothing about real music, only percussion and drumming. I doubt you know the art of reading music as another language. Do I care enough to rape you here with words as you did? No, I know that to be a fact and it makes me happy because people as miserable as you are only deserve to listen. Attitude like yours doesn’t deserve the gift or reading and making music. You are a POS, but guess what, no one’s cares. Calm down. You forgot your blood pressure meds a-hole.
You forget to say “get off my lawn!” Good God take a nap.
testing 1 2 3
and Carl Palmer?
Horrible horrible list. Non of these drummers are even in the top 50 of all time drummers. Dave weckl, Dennis chambers, Virgil donati, Thomas Lang, Dom fumalero, Steve Gadd, Tony Royster jr, the list goes on and on all of which make the names you just put up look like absolute amateurs. Not debatable just a matter of fact
I think Bun E Carlos should be on the list. I think he’s awesome
This list is bogus. It’s skewered to 60s to current drummers. Nobody but NOBODY drummed like Buddy Rich. What a farce this list of drummers is.
i`ve heard buddy rich`s drum solos – carmine appice from vanilla fudge is as good if not better when it comes to that kind of thing on my opinion – but anyways the list is more of a popularity contest and technical talent doesn`t seem to be as relevant
Yes this whole top 10 list is full of shit, he don’t really understand who a great drummer is. What the hell is travis barker doung on the top 10 when Joey Jordison, Gene Hoglan, Tom Hunting, Vinnie Paul, Nick Menza are not on the list. This top 10 countdown is bullshit
Ok…the top four are appropriate though out of order……the next six should not be on the list. The next 6…..are tied for 4th place.
The fact that you didn’t know which group recorded and performed Red Barchetta makes me question this whole list.
Not a mention of Billy Cobham….
The rev definitely deserved to be on here and near the top. As a newer age drummer he was unique and just the best even over most of this list. I would say 3rd. Neil peart is and probably will always be the best drummer that ever lived.
Ikr one of the best drummers
I think the drummer from Stryper Robert Sweet was one amazing drummer.
NEIL PEART!!!!!!!!
I am a drummer for 48 years and Neil Peart has them all beat. If your gonna be a #1 drummer you need to be versed in all styles of music.
Yup like Michael Shrieve
😲EXACTLY!!! NEIL PEART WAS/IS THE BEST. ALSO I LIKE STEWART COPELAND’S EXPLOSIVENESS. HE IS ALWAYS WANTING TO HIT THAT NEXT BEAT NO MATTER HOW SMALL OR BIG IT’S GONNA BE.
Neil could not hold a candle to Billy Cobham or Omar Hakim.
At number 2…I know!!!
R.I.P. NEIL P.
Rip vinny Paul, the rev, and most recent, Joey jordinson.!.
Wot, No Cozy Powell?
I was super impressed by Cozy Powell in the beginning of Rainbow’s Stargazer. That put him in MY personal top 3 or 4.
Cozy was a Bashar – good for HM like Rainbow, WS etc but not a technician.
RIP NP. dunno how you missed this one. Incredible sense of rhythm song writer. While I agree bonzo is number one, how can you leave neal peart out. Doesn’t make sense.
Don’t forget to mention the fact that he wrote 99% of the band’s lyrics and that is very rare when it comes to drummers.
Writing sing lyrics doesn’t make you a good drummer, playing drums does. NP was a God but the torch was passed to Danny Carey. There are faster and crazier drummers but none of them are Danny
Danny Carey?!?
But they didn’t leave him out? He is number two on the list. I’m just a humble bass player but John Bonham has got to be the best drummer of all time in my opinion. It is a shame Danny Carey(Kerry?) didn’t make the list. but all in all I think it’s a fine list and a daunting task to list the top 10 when I believe that out of a hundred top 10 drummer lists from a hundred different people that no two would have them ordered the same or even have the same people. And out of those lists many would have Bonham and Peart as #1 + #2.
Neil Peart is the GOAT.
Michael Shrieve should be mentioned.
Dave grovel is average at best
Yes Michael Shrieve!
No he isn’t. He ‘s very precise and polished, but lacks the feel and pounding groove of Bonham.
Omar Hakim is better than all of them except for maybe Dave Weckel and Billy Cobham.
Neil Peart
Nicko Mcbrain
Roger Taylor
Rick Allen
I can’t believe my eyes!! Neil Peart is nowhere on this list. My heart is truly sad.
Don’t believe your eyes!!! He’s #2 😁
Why would you ask why the Rev isn’t on the list? He doesn’t play drums! He has had numerous drummers in the band.
Get Barker off there.. what the.. Danny fn Carey is top 5 easy.
Agreed!!
You have no taste, have you even listened to Blink-182?
Ray Luzier.
the inclusion of Ringo Starr immediately discredits this list
Terry Bozzio and Alex Van Halen are some skull smashers for sure.
Yeah, AVH was a slam artist for sure
You have to realize what era some of these drummers came out of -at that space in time they were on top of their game.Also a lot of drummers specialize in a certain style.They are the best for that band!!
Carl Palmer?
Chester Thompson?
Alan White?
Where is Carl Palmer. There is no number one account, should be in the top 10 this is bulshit
Perhaps my age is showing… I remember when Rich and Gene Krupa were ‘in’ (But, then I never heard of half of these guys. (Signed: Stuck n d 60s)
Six of the ten drummers listed were at their peak during the 60’s. Kupra is among the greatest regardless of genre that is for certain.
I totally agree. I saw Gene several times – amazing.
True dat’ bruh!
Cozy Powell
You are right!
My favourite Drummer of all time!
I concur
Moon forever
Why is ANIMAL not on this list? He gave dave grohl a run!
The Animal was inspired by Keith Moon so technically he was represented on this list vicariously through Moon.
Lovely word vicariously. Nice one
My favourites are 1.Buddy Rich 2. Ginger Baker and my 3rd would be Iain Paice. All drummers had that abiity to use Jazz and swing to stamp their authority on the bands they played with.
being a drummer amongst many other self-taught instruments I have a very far and in-between range of music and drumming especially and I am very surprised that since you are looking for originality in the first place that you never mentioned one of my first heavy metal influences of mine by the name of Stryper whose drummer Robert Sweet is AMAZING!! as I mentioned before my very knowledgeable music influences Etc Robert sweet I would say is probably the best drummer I have ever heard live to this day. And my favourite band is Def Leppard who I’ve seen five times,being original as he had to relearn the drums from scratch no matter if they were electronic or not Rick Allen should be given some kind of mentioned here also!
I would add Tommy Lee from Motley Crue and Carter Beaufort from Dave Matthews Band to that list.
Seriously, Grohls very famous, accomplished and a beast of an all around musician but a better DRUMMER than Carey he most definitely is not. Laughable man, must be an April fools joke.
Dude Grohl doesn’t belong in the top 50 when discussing the rock genre to be completely honest, he’s extremely talented but as you pointed out Danny Carey’s skill and technical ability would put him in the top five at the very least in terms of the “rock/hard rock and metal genres.” Jimmy Chamberlain belongs on this list but it’s more based on popularity.
Jimmy Fox(James Gang) was a beast as well
What about Lars???
Lars Ulrich can’t even keep time. What you hear in the studio was spliced, edited, dubbed.
I agree with your list except Stewart Copeland. Charlie Watts, Ian Paice or even Gene Krupa could replace Copeland in the top ten.
Hold up, Gene Krupa is definitely top ten and it’s no debate while Ian Paice is among the 30-25 best in my opinion but Watts? That’s ridiculous, he’s consistently excellent when it comes to simplicity and holding the back beat but he isn’t remotely close to Copeland when it comes technical ability and versatility. I would bet a good sum of money that you find the Police’s music irritating for whatever reason but you’re just playing ignorant if you believe Copeland doesn’t belong in the top ten at the absolutely least.
Wrong. Stuart Copeland is an actual musician, unlike most drummers.
Agree with Peter Barlow, I think Carl Palmer got lost since you do not hear a lot of ELP being played for a while. I have seen, Bonham, Moon and Palmer all live in the past. My top 5 favorites (not necessarily in this order) are Buddy Rich, Carl Palmer, Keith Moon, Neil Peart and John Bonham.
peart and bonham are tied
Phil Collins
Good one, we are amazed no one else has brought him up and he was so close to our list.
Mick Fleetwood
Josh Dun???
What about Alex Van Halen I mean how do you leave out one of the greats.
When i first saw keith moon play i thought some idiot brought a jet engine to the theatre i was in!! absolutely ferocious drumming,Moon and Bonzo Top 2 drummers,period nobody comes close
David grohl over Jeff Porcaro? WTF
I’m with the other guys..Ringo and Ginger Baker are really easy to copy. Danny Carey and Buddy Rich….not so much!
BUDDY OLD SCHOOL, NO ELECTRONICS, ALLMANUEL, HE DID IT THE RICH WAY. “THE MACHINE GUN”
Michael Driskell should be at least 10th
Mikkey Dee formerly of Motorhead and King Diamond. By far the best who ever lived.
When it comes down to whose the greatest it becomes very subjective witive with regard to difference styles tastes. Personally, I have listened to every drummer on your list. But my absolute favorite is Gene Krupa. NO, HE WAS NOT THE FASTEST BUT THERESOMETHING ABOUT THE STYLE For example, no one would doubt that a drummer such as Buddy Rich had more speed and arguably better technically. BUT Being more perfect and having more speed does not always correlate with charasmastic artistry. To me, Krupa was less mechanical and possessed and he had this knack for his great single shot accents that were perfectly placed and and matched with with the other instruments as to make those drums sing in just the right way and at just the right time. So it his artistry more than his speed and technical skill that gave me goosebumps every time I heard him play. SING SING SING WILL FOREVER BE ACLASSIC
I agree with you. Gene Krupa came across to me as a drummer who , I really can’t find the right word for it,…was immersed in the music, not just drumming, but living it. He and his drums were one. Just listen to him and how he complemented Lionel Hampton in I Got Rhythm for Benney Goodman’s Carnegie Hall Jazz Concert. Wow. Takesmy breath away.
Definitely Ringo for number one.
Jesus Christ, you are ignorant. Dave Grohl is a phenomenal drummer. Ever heard of Nirvana?
no tre cool? NOT COOL! TRE IS THE BEST DRUMMERIN THE WORLD
No Danny Carey on this list completely invalidates any legitimacy that would otherwise be here…
Truth. Daney Carey is at least in the top three.
John and Neil were two very different drummers. I think ghey were both great. Both had incredible talents. Two of my favorites. And we have so many really good drummers today and threw the years. I knew a back yard blues drummer out of Chicago. They called him Pete the best. I seen him play in Seattle one night. And I pre judged him before I seen him play. He had an old beat up set of Ludwig and his cymbals were bezt to sh. They had cracks in them and holes drilled to stop the cracks u all know. He smoked a short little cigar and dressed kinda messy. Man this guy did solo on his drum rims like I’ve never seen. They he started to play. One of the best rock blues drummers I’ve ever witnessed or seen play in my life. I was young I think 18. But after seeing Pdte the beat play. I stopped judging people right then and there.
How dare you leave Jimmy The Rev off of this list!
what I said!
Tommy Aldridge in any top ten. 50+ years and still going strong.
Rick Allen should be on there too, if not at least get an honorable mention. How many other drummers are there who make it big with 2 arms, lose 1, create and learn to play a kit with 1 arm and 2 feet out there? And NOW he is going back to acoustic drums from time to time!
Guiness Book of Records drummer Cozy Powell, who also drummed for the best bands in the world, should have made the list.
Where’s Bill Bruford, the drummer who played in Yes, King Crimson and Genesis
Chick Webb, baby!
Nice to see someone with some real sense here. Buddy Rich is the only one in this list I agree with, and who did Buddy study? Chick Webb!
Chick Webb gets me up 4 sure and Stevie Wonder gets me up 4 sure!!
I can`t believe Eric Delany is not in this top 10 line-up. And, what is Ringo doing there? He`s not even the best drummer in The Beatles.
Where the hell is Karen Carpenter? She was every bit as good (if not better) than 60% of the men on that list
I knew Karen when we were living close to each other in CT..The very 1st drum kit she ever played on was mine. I started to play in 1957 as a 8 year old kid. Karen tried my kit in 1959 or 1960. As i took lessons, I showed her what my instructor taught me
Carl Palmer
Im sorry but Danny Carey is a far superiour drummer to Travis Barker any day of the week, in any weather. It’s not even an argument amonst anyone who understands music and the fact that you have him on the list makes me think that your opinion isn’t worth the server space it takes up.
Carl Palmer for me.
It’s nice to have so many great drummers to choose from. My list would include Billy Cobham and Tony Williams.
I was also a bit surprised not to see Tommy Aldridge.
Chad Smith
Keith Moon is the best I feel or Mitch Mitchell from the Jimi Hendrix experience
Favorite* Keith Moon is your personal favorite as he is mine as well but you will never determine who the true “greatest drummer of all-time” is due to variables in genre, areas of focus in skill along with the absolute fact that there is most likely some unknown drummer playing in their garage that is more skilled all-around than anyone who is well known.
Keith Moon was the MAN!! . . .
Jimmy Chamberlain
This x100000000000 Jimmy Chamberlain is so fucking versatile and he dominates in every area of focus he uses in a technical sense.
To everyone giving their input on drummers. They didn’t even know who Rush was. If your pick isn’t in one of the most famous bands of all time, they have never heard of them.
How long does this last does not understand drumming and they don’t qualify best at what if it’s most technical then Buddy Rich is the only one on that whole list would be up there there’ll be nine others that are way better than the rest of the guys if they’re talking about style then except for a couple like Dave grohl is not a good drummer he should not be on that list that Travis Parker I don’t know who the f*** that guy is but there’s so many other that are so much better to me buddy Rich is always number one hands down nobody even close Terry bozzio he would be in my opinion number two Dave weckl number three either Dennis Chambers or of any caliuda number 3, 4
John Bonham for style Neil Piert for creating a sound and a style
Ian Paice for extreme technical ability in hard rock
Cozy Powell for style
Bill bruford technical ability
If we’re speaking of only technical ability and disregarding popularity and impact then the last would have to replace half but there’s someone playing inna garage who is probably more skilled it’s just about timing and the right break. Barker is extremely overrated and just popular among preteen poppunk fans and is the only one I can absolutely say does not belong near a list like this.
Tony Williams, Elvin Jones
Fucking Ringo Starr 🙄
On a purely technical level, I agree that Buddy may be #1. But he has no Groove. PLEASE go to youtube and look at: Dylan Elise. I think he vies for #1. And he’s still somewhat young.
Interesting selections and comments. Difficult to compare across style but I saw B Rich live when I was 13 and was riveted for 2 hours. Always felt the Louie Belson was as good .
I grew up on C Powell and I Paice however there are some absolute class drummer who never seem to get a mention I’m thinking Gavin Harrison, Vergil Donati, Mike Portnoy a little and Chad Smith
Ringo Starr…really? J Bonham for sure.
Dude it’s a list of ten and it’s obviously based off of popularity and influence. Portnoy absolutely belongs here I agree but don’t get so worked up over a list that doesn’t include your personal favorites.
Thank you Marc, Yes Cozy Powell and Ian Paice- very different drummers but both complete masters.
Sorry, can’t take any list like this seriously that has Ringo in it but no Mike Portnoy. For that matter, can’t take this list seriously if you have John Bonham at the top. Try again
The fact that Bill Ward is not on this list is a crime.
Ward scared the shit out of a drum set
STEVE GADD??????????????????
This right here, Gadd is one of the most underrated drummers of all-time.
not in my book. Gadd is my favorite by far and should be on the list. He plays for the music and if you take his drum parts out of Paul Simons songs they would not have ever been noticed Gadd is a true musician!
Joey Jordison?
Nicko McBrain?
Animal?
finallyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy, someone said joeyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy! R.I.P LEGEND
Larnell Lewis? surely he should be here
Being a drummer myself for 47 years, I would say John Bonham is far from being the Best Drummer. He was actually a sloppy drummer with some off timing. Neil Peart, Buddy Rich, and Stewart Copeland yes. But where are drummers like Thomas Lang, Marco Minnemann, and Jonathan Moffett?
Somethings wrong…Buddy Rich should without a doubt be number 1!
No one will EVER come close to being a drummer as great as,Buddy Rich was
This list is a joke, Dave Grohl? Ringo? Travis Barker? Sounds like the author of this was limited to rock music, and still couldn’t get that part correct.
Buddy Rich is the only one I would put on this list, long forgotten are such greats like Chick Webb, Bellson, Mac Roach, Art Blakey, to name a few.
Good taste Keith
Most people leaving their choices are obviously very young and have not idea as,to who the greats really are
Twenty years from now number one will be Abigail Cristea of Liliac. RORH!
Nobody ever mentions Bill Ward. His style is irreplicable.
Anybody remember Mitch Mitchel from The Jimmy Hendrix Experience or Gene Krupa or Cozy Cole or many others great jazz drummers, the only jazz one there is Buddy Rich who can do anything all those rock drummers do and probably with one drum stick !!!
And ….no one mentions the greatest of the lot – Tony Williams!!! Remember him?
And hey how about Elvin Jones and
Oh oh Chris Daddy Dave??
What a joke
While maybe not #1 Carl Palmer should be in the top 5. Buddy Rich, not known to hand out compliments, gave Carl his stamp of approval. And, at 70+ years old would out drum anyone on that list today! 🙂
What about the man who really did perform with one drumstick: Joe Morello? There’s footage of that! That 5/4 timing? John Bonham’s hero? And a man who could do all this practically blindfolded! Had a longer career than nearly all The rock drummers mentioned. Much longer!!!! To me Joe is just as good as Buddy without the aditude. Buddy had the energy, but Joe was smooth. Gene Krupa, Joe Morello and Buddy belong on this list somehow. Period!
The very fact that you guys had to check your Spotify to tell you it was Rush…🤣 makes it laughable that you feel qualified even make such a list.
My top 10:
Bill Ward
Mitch Mitchell
Phil Collins
Ginger Baker
Buddy Rich
Dave Lombardo
Terry Bozzio
Tommy Aldridge
John Bonham
Neil Peart
Danny Carey the GOAT
you forgot Phil Collins
Danny Carey (Tool) Tim Alexander (primus)
Anybody see Billy Cobham play?
How about the amazing Dylan Elise?
Yes I just Mentioned him. I was lucky enough to sit next to him at a show at my fathers place in Ny. Power speed and incredible timing.
Billy Cobham is the best drummer I have ever seen or heard. Period. Any list in which is does not appear at or near the top cannot be taken seriously.
Ginger Baker and bonzo are equally number 1 on the list.
Carmine Appice iconic drummer of all time.
ha ha – i must have gone thru a couple hundred comments before seeing the greatest drummer of all time`s name mentioned – congratulations on good taste – this is such a shit list
Meeeee im the best drummer ive just not been tested against them
Chad smith also
what a priviledge to have heard these amazing drummers. It’s not always the “Look at me” drummers that stamp the mark for me. It’s those that subtly bring greatness to a band. Carter Beaufort – dave matthews band, Simplicity and timing of Jason Cooper – the Cure, Copeland….groundbreaker! Larry Mullen – U2. No one should argue about GOATS, when sounds like Nick Mason rocked the world! Paul Hester – Crowded House, Jon Farris…..
Wow! Great list! Too bad it’s bunk. Grohl has no business being on this list ESPECIALLY ahead of Ginger Baker. Travis Barker?? Nice guy, but not even noteworthy. Where’s Collins, Powell, White, Bruford?? Someone more current, you say? How about Portnoy, Cool & JASON Bonham??? Get a clue.
John Bradbury anyone?
“Untimely suicide”. When is suicide timely?
Virgil Donati…….I win!
Show me anyone else who can play like this cat.
Don’t waste your time……no one else can!
Dave Grohl? Get real. You can replace that name with many others, such Alex Van Halen, just for example.
William Emanuel Cobham Jr.! End of discussion!
How in god’s name could you not mention B.J. Wilson? Page and Plant wanted him in Led Zep over Bonham, but he chose to stay with his friends in Procol Harum. Buddy Rich, who didn’t much care for rock drummers even singled him out as one of his faves.
Yes but Tommy Lee is the best because of his drum riser is on a rollercoaster track and continuously rolls while he is drumming. And what about Lars Ulrich from Metallica. Nobody on the list on their best day could touch either of these guys. And how about Bocephus fit into the mix. Plays the drum parts on all of his albums.
Steve Moore is incredible
one of the worst lists ive ever seen. no carter beauford?
This list is absolute nonsense and clearly based on fame rather than talent. A list of truly great drummers should include Bill Bruford, Terry Williams, Carl Palmer, Jon Hiseman, Lenny White, Steve Gadd, Pip Pyle, Mike Shrieve. These guys are real drummers…not just loud tub thumpers
Some greats in that list
Neil Peart was is and will always be the greatest drummer on the planet. Why isn’t Carter Beauford on the list?
What about Mick Tucker of The Sweet. Definitely deserves a spot on here. Give “Ballroom Blitz”, “Fox on the Run”, “Blockbuster”, and “Man With the Golden Arm” a listen and you’ll agree.
I totally agree he was awesome
BTW- Stewart Copeland, who formed the band, the Police, is a child of the world but his nationality is American. I am a big fan of Peart and Copeland; so different as drummers but both at the top of the class.
#1 – Keith Moon, hand down!! #2 – John Bonham
#1 – Keith Moon #2 – John Bonham . . .
i think Levon Helm is one of the best drummers ever. No one had a feel for percussion like him. I’ve been a drummer for over fifty years and no one’s drumming excites me like Levon. He will always be my favorite. My other favorites are Billy Cobham, Stewart Copeland, Charlie Watts, Steve Gadd, Dennis Chambers, and yes, Ringo Starr. Just my opinion but these drummers do it for me.
Wow, Stewart Copeland but no Roger Taylor? And, the worst of it, no Rick Allen????
Travis Barker is way under rated he’ No.1
More like popular bands with great drummers. Jimmy Chamberlain if anything is a top 3 modern day drummer.
Charlie Watts nothing but great things to say during the eulogy
Joe Morello could play blindfolded better than 90% of this list. Your top ten is a joke.
John Bonham and Moon are a lot like Hendrix,death brings some kind of legend status. No where near the best and if they would’ve lived,no one would call them the best. Ringo isn’t in the top 1000 of drummers. To say he is top 10 is living in bizarro world. Dave Grohl is incredibly overrated as a drummer and he’d be the first to tell you that. Unless this is my favourite drummer of my favourite bands. It’s certainly not anywhere near a list of greatest drummers. Joe Morello could play better than this list blindfolded.
I always doubt any lists that places John Bonham ahead of Buddy Rich. Buddy was just an absolute beast!
Danny Carey??
I think Top 10 lists are ludicrous because you leave off too many artists that are just too damn good to play an exclusion game with. In my opinion Carl Palmer, Mitch Mitchell and Jose Areas shouldn’t be excluded, ever. Going back far enough, Sandy Nelson was a pioneer too. I’m just saying there are too many jewels in the crown of drumming to be left out, but ya know, I have a problem with the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame too.
You lost all my interest and respect when I saw Dave Grohl on this list.
RIDICULOUS!!!
This list is laughable beyond measure.
NOTHING but a popularity contest and has ZERO to do with drumming ability.
Bernard “Buddy” Rich is THE greatest drummer to ever walk planet earth, and is 100% unarguable.
John Bonham isn’t even the greatest ROCK drummer ever because he had such a short career. As compared to drummers like Neil Peart, Carl Palmer, Carmine Appice, Tommy Aldridge, etc…
How come Vinnie Coluiata isn’t on this list?
Gene Krupa?
Tony Williams?
Steve Gadd?
Steve Smith?
Billy Cobham?
Jo Jo Mayer?
…to name a few.
This top 10 drummers list is a JOKE!!!😆😅😂
I agree. This guy was on acid when he made that list. There are gospel drummers that would put these guys in their back pocket and absolutely destroy them in technique and speed. Travis Barker is a joke with his single stroke beats.
Unbelievable no tommy Aldridge. Or Vinny appice.
Wow no Vinny application or tommy Aldridge
If you’ve SEEN Billy Cobham, you’ll never leave him off of a list like this.
Speed is not the only, or even best, measure. Feeling is more important. Gene Krupa deserves a spot just for the drumming on the live Carnegie Hall recording of “Sing! Sing! Sing!” It sounded decades ahead of its time in 1939. I saw a drummer play with his arms behind his back last night. A cool trick, but the rest of the show I felt he was a banger that hit it too hard when a softer approach would have better suited the music.
I go with intensity. Keith and Tommy Lee. Ringo and Densmore for feel.
Matt Cameron for his Soundgarden work
Theres no mention of Danny Carey this this entire website/company/entity has no validity or relevance henceforth. RIP
Helloooo….BJ Wilson = subtlety plus space between virtuosity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W2g40ICaMWY
As Joe above mentions BJ Wilson, drummer for Procol Harum. Influenced most of those rock drummers mentioned. The rest of Joe’s astute comment: “How in god’s name could you not mention B.J. Wilson? Page and Plant wanted him in Led Zep over Bonham, but he chose to stay with his friends in Procol Harum. Buddy Rich, who didn’t much care for rock drummers even singled him out as one of his faves.” Check this out: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W2g40ICaMWY
and this BJ as well, great instrumental as bonus: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wQC7Kk4WOPU
Burford by far is top 5 drummers EVER in any style Neal peart was in awe of him.I had met him at a drum clinic many years ago and had been blown away by his magic.
Frank Beard is better than Dave G in my opinion. Dave is a cool guy and great musician but I don’t know how he gets a spot over Frank Beard.
This list should be who are the top 10 favourite “pop” drummers. The best drummer I ever heard was a guy I grew up with. When we played, everyone stopped to watch him. Only guy that people asked for a drum solo. Unfortunately he died at 22 in a plane crash. 2nd best drummer is some guy nobody ever heard of playing the London/Barcelona/Frankfurt circuit. Only difference between these two guys and everyone on this list is Fame. So as I said the top 10 favourite “pop” drummers.
Tough to do a top ten; I get it. But, man. You had to check Spotify to know what band and drummer Red fkn Barchetta is owed to? Just, wow.
That said, you all should probably check out this lil ole band called TOOL. Their drummer Danny Carey? He’ll blow your everlovin minds. See if you can even count the time signature changes in a single song.
Just a humble suggestion. Ciao.
No mention of Danny Carey?
Travis Barker is a great drummer but over Rob Bourdon from Linkin Park? Nope…my opinion….
Whoever made this list must still be sucking on a baby bottle with hard drugs in it. Buddy Rich number one. Probably Ginger Baker number two. He was a musician and could compose drum parts, John Bonham number three, a great untutored journeyman. For two and three you could probably substitute a couple of jazz greats. Then there’s Elvin Jones, Gene Krupa, Jack DeJohnette, Vinnie Colaiuta, and Steve Gadd especially would be in my top five greatest. The younger they are the more crap they talk.
Where the fuck is Joey Jordison? He should be on this list, he was one of the greatest drummers in the music industry.
No Paicey? What is the world coming too?
Travis Barker. Oh God… I can’t stop laughing. I have students that are better and they are just starting. My man has jokes. You need to be writing comedy not a top 10 drummer list.
Dave grohl and travis barker but danny carey not there??? 😂 garbage top 10
this list is more popularity contest than talent contest
Joey Jorgensen and the rev the 2 greatest drummers in recent times no doubtly should have been on here and towards the top I would say 3rd and 4th because they were finominal unique just the best drummers out there! But because Neil peart was a legend and greatest drummer of all history he will forever be on top along with John Bonham except Neil should definitely be above him for sure.
Danny Carey is the best drummer of all time – and all of these guys are a distant second…
You had to go to Spotify a company founded in 2006 to find out who rush and Neil Peart was…and you’re going to tell me who the greatest drummers of all time are ?
Hey, Curious where you would rank Mick Fleetwood of Fleetwood Mac. Thanks!
All wrong. And don’t you make it difficult to say so!?
What the fuck about Neil Perth, Buddy Rich, Cindy? And to get down to it, Bock, Vivaldi. Have you not forgotten?
What you have to realize is the era that some of these drummers came out of-they were the best in that time frame or the best for that band.As far as speed and technique -you have Buddy Rich,Dennis Chambers,and Thomas Lang .The cleanest drummers So much so it gets me sick!!!