Music lovers can agree that compiling a list based on the 10 best drummers of all time is not an easy feat. But when you look at the following names you can't help to feel they deserve to be on it.
10. Dave Grohl
He is known as one of the hardest working drummers in the world, but will probably be better recognized as the front man for Foo Fighters. His drumming expertise became famous with the legendary group, Nirvana, and it's his freedom to just let go that has made him such a sought after musician.
9. Ringo Starr
What would a list be without a Beatle? People can say all they want about Lennon, but it was the subtle off-beats from Starr that really gave The Beatles their unique sound. He never needed any flashy tricks or styles to show the world how talented he really was. Even his solo career after the band split is considered very successful.
8. Max Roach
Roach did for the drums what Hendrix did for rock, which is take it to another level. He was a teen prodigy during the 40's and he made a name for himself by playing with quite a few jazz bands. While drummers were mostly considered a mere element for time keeping, Roach brought in a style and charisma that made the drums a crucial part of the band dynamic.
7. Janet Weiss
For everyone who thought only guys could handle the drums, try Janet Weiss on for size. She is incredibly entertaining to watch, but her aggressive skill and solid beats can stand against every guy out there. Weiss has played with some big names in the business and it doesn't come as a surprise. Plus, she has one of the most beautiful drum kits out there.
6. Keith Moon
The legendary band, The Who, lost their signature sound when Moon died in 1978, because his reckless intensity personified the reason why people loved them. While most drummers just thought he was crazy, the rest of the world bowed at his feet. He will always be remembered for is uncontrollable spirit and unorthodox technique.
5. Matt Cameron
Cameron is another name that can be associated with several bands, but his most prominent work can be heard through Pearl Jam and Sound Garden. By far one of the most creative drummers in the world, Cameron has an energy about his style that hasn't been duplicated yet.
4. Ginger Baker
If you ever wondered when double bass drums really started to make sense, then look no further than Ginger Baker. He played for the band Cream during the 60's and heavy metal would never be the same after this guy placed his thundering stamp on those double bass drums and rock solos.
3. Neil Peart
If there is one word you can associate Peart with, it's ingenious. He was part of the band called Rush and his solos were typically the highlight for every concert. Another common reference for Peart is distinctive, because the atmosphere he was able to create was simply incredible. If you gave Peart a set of drums then you'd have an entertaining show, period. As a side-note, he also wrote some lyrics for the band.
2. Mike Portnoy
Portnoy was part of the birth for Dream Theater and his contribution to progressive rock is remembered till this day. However, when people think about him, they think about a guy that always kept the bigger picture in mind. He was creative, extremely talented and never backed down from a challenge, but most of all, he was a team player.
1. John Bonham
It's only right to end this list with the drummer of Led Zeppelin, better known as Bonzo. With his cool attitude he always made magic with any drum set, whether he was taking a solo or leading the band into a groove that had more soul than all the collective angels. Essentially, there are no words to describe what this guy could do any day of the week.
