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The sadness of wasted bits

I think you're just showing your lack of breadth and understanding.

I agree that certainly could be the case. It’s not like I’m a musical historian. Just another goofball on the Internet.

That said, I’m probably not as ignorant as you might imagine. Grew up with a jazz musician and music teacher has a father, who introduced me to all manner of music, everybody in my family played multiple instruments and different musical styles, and as a fan of not only rock but R&B, funk, jazz etc. I was already aware of the drummers you mentioned.


As for memorable parts - he invented the Purdie Shuffle (Steely Dan, Aja - Home At Last) which has been copied many times, most notably by Jeff Porcaro for Toto's Rosanna - is that memorable enough?

As I said, I’m certainly not disputing the Purdie wasn’t influential - obviously he was - - or that he hadn’t produced some memorable drum parts.

I just don’t see reason to think he is as prodigious as Neil was in that regard.

But ultimately, this isn’t going to be settled in any way. I’ve given my opinion and that’s pretty much all it is.

Cheers.
 
Jumping in late to say Purdie for Rock, Haynes for Jazz, Watts and Baker as switch hitters, Ringo overrated as the fame not talent gives him too much recognition and the Beatles in general after Rubber Soul and Revolver for that matter. Just to piss somebody above off.
 
'Beware of Mr. Baker' was fascinating. Not an easy guy to get along with!
 
'Beware of Mr. Baker' was fascinating. Not an easy guy to get along with!

Oh yeah! Dude had quite a reputation, and seems to have earned it.
 
The top five drummers of all time, according to MusicRadar's rankings ¹, are:

- *1. Neil Peart*: A groundbreaking drummer known for his technical mastery and intricate arrangements with Rush. His unique blend of acoustic and electronic elements, along with his thought-provoking lyrics, have cemented his status as one of the greatest drummers in history.

- *2. John Bonham*: As the iconic drummer for Led Zeppelin, Bonham's powerful sound and dynamic playing style have influenced generations of drummers. His distinctive groove and textured playing continue to inspire and awe drum enthusiasts.

- *3. Buddy Rich*: A jazz drumming legend, Rich was renowned for his lightning-fast speed, impressive technique, and captivating showmanship. His impact on modern drumming is undeniable, with many top drummers citing him as a major influence.

- *4. Ginger Baker*: As the innovative drummer for Cream, Baker's unique blend of jazz, rock, and African rhythms helped shape the sound of classic rock. His pioneering use of double bass drums and groundbreaking drum solos have left an indelible mark on drumming history.

- *5. Keith Moon*: The Who's explosive drummer, Moon, was known for his dynamic stage presence, innovative techniques, and iconic drum kits. His influence on rock drumming is immense, with many notable drummers drawing inspiration from his energetic and unpredictable style.
 
Is there a top five list of pointless top five lists somewhere too :)
I don’t like Rush so I haven’t really listened to the drumming of Peart. Sure has a big kit!
I’m fond of Ringo’s creative understatement, Ginger’s polyrhythms and of course appreciate the thunderous sound of Bonham though don’t listen to Zep anymore. Life’s too short to listen to old music of my youth when there is so much great music to discover.
 
Life’s too short to listen to old music of my youth when there is so much great music to discover.
So true, barring a little nostalgia, there is so much to discover with the internet at your finger tips.

How Roy Haynes, Elvin Jones, Max Roach, and Louis Bellson did not make that list shows that it was Pop-centric.
 
How Roy Haynes, Elvin Jones, Max Roach, and Louis Bellson did not make that list shows that it was Pop-centric.
Or Jo Jones, for that matter.
 
Reflecting on this thread, my own preferences are for players with great time and groove (Steve Gadd as a great example).

I am just not much interested in pyrotechnics or complexity for the sake of it. Great drummers make the whole band play and sound better - that's the job.

I recall watching Chrissie Hind on TV at Glasto recently (was is 2023?) - Dave Grohl came on and played drums for a couple of numbers - in my mind the whole band went up a gear. He didn't play any more notes - it's was just how he played
 
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And

And Mel Lewis - a fine and musical drummer who seems to get forgotten (check out Art Pepper Plus 11 - he's great on that LP)
Yes and the engineer for Contemporary Records, Roy DuNann had nack and technique for mic'ing those drums and other instruments of that period. Check out Frank Butler on " You Get more bounce with Curtis Counce" album.
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