11 Greatest Drummers Ever | Mike Portnoy's Picks

[@domenicgalata1470]

Bill Ward’s progression over the first six Black Sabbath albums was amazing. Underrated drummer.

[@gogoyubari366]

What makes you believe he's underrated? Did you travel the globe taking a survey from every citizen of the world? Please explain.

[@domenicgalata1470]

@@gogoyubari366 I of course have not done that, but it has been noticed by me that he doesn’t get the proper due on lists. You always see the usual names but Ward isn’t mentioned as often when he clearly should be. Versatile and his progression through those first six records is staggering. I’d put Ward over Baker for instance.

[@Greg-io1ip]

Bill Ward isn't underrated. If not for Neil Peart, Bill Ward is in Neil's chair.

[@billwhitman4125]

Domenic Galata I'm with you ...but maybe a different reason. Among drummers Ward is God....but if you ask non musicians their top ten Ward never shows up. Fuck these people talk to you like that.

[@ACarter87]

Bill is diametric opposite of underrated Any one that has any understanding of music Knows how amazing Bill is

[@ianhewitson2738]

Always Neil Peart for me. It's not just his drumming,it's the way he lived his life, his writing and lyrics, his eagerness to improve, his pursuit of excellence.

[@GioGuitarDude]

Neil was a pure genius. His attention to detail in just about everything in life was incredible. Every drum fill, every bell that he hit and every symbol that he struck was out of the pursuit of excellence and any sane person would agree that he achieved it. I can’t think of one Rush song where the percussion wasn’t perfection.

[@frankfrohmann1504]

Neil Peart - in addition to the fact that he was the best drummer - also wrote the best song lyrics in music history. Neil is a separate segment. Unbeatable.

[@erikness4231]

Dang it, I wanted to be the first to say this. The Professor added so many elements intro what could been just a standard drum solo.He added so much into it. No disrespect to John Bonham, Keith Moon, and the like, but IMHO Neil took it to another level.

[@Saiyan585]

​@Frank Frohmann Definitely don't agree on the lyrics.

[@Saiyan585]

Always Portnoy for me.

[@denmorin]

Not a drummer but I love music and I love hearing a legend talking about other legends.

[@vicariousjohnson9823]

Danny Carey. Saw him last Saturday and at 62, he’s absolutely awe inspiring to watch.

[@daynejoseph2366]

If Danny Carey isn't in your Top 10, I don't trust ya.

[@stephenmiller2337]

I've seen Tool twice, and I couldn't agree with you more. As great as he is on record, he absolutely crushes it live.

[@Slyness64209]

I can't understand how he is not in Portnoy's list tbh, seems criminal lmao

[@verbummentis]

Portnoy trying Pneuma 😂😂 kzbin.info/www/bejne/mGTWdpeJiZh3b6csi=IByychBig25LT19F

[@christophlucke5654]

@@Slyness64209 Yes i am with you, but 1st of all it wont make Danny Carey smaller and 2nd of all when you watch the Video you see that he has a personal connection to most of them in terms of his development. So its not really THE best Drummers of all time its more like the best Drummers for him. As a Bassisst would put Justin Chancellor in my top 11 Bassists but i am really sure he does not belong in a ALL time top 10. But he has a big impact on me.

[@mOnStErMACEO]

Musicians like Mike Portnoy are the true reason we love music.

[@robg8784]

his work on images and Words is simply Brilliant!

[@maximummatt73]

Home, tho

[@Selkirk69]

His appreciation for music is one of his best qualities.

[@johnjones5977]

@@maximummatt73 What, exactly, does that mean?

[@maximummatt73]

@@johnjones5977 it means you should calm down, son

[@patricklongerbeam6421]

I am glad to hear Mike mention Clive Burr. One of the greats and doesn’t get the credit he deserves. His work on all (3) Maiden albums was incredible

[@theresadimarco764]

Agreed.

[@tehnagabakti]

Man for me, Ian Paice is one of the all time greats and I really don't think he gets the credit he deserves.

[@gonzaloborquez894]

not one of, he is the greatest drummer.

[@nigelhaines7900]

​@@gonzaloborquez894 agreed he was brill

[@timhenderson6473]

Very fast hands.those fills on space trucking are classic.had a good groove as well

[@emanuelefasanofasano3814]

Until recently his solos all sound the same now

[@MarkLipka]

*Paice is a guy who is FANTASTICALLY AMAZING, yet never seems to get mentioned on anyone's list. Glad to at least se him mentioned in the comments!*

[@allanperry6507]

Neil Peart really is more than a drummer he is a full on percussionist, lyricist , had no ego like many musicians have and a nice down to earth guy, thats what sets him way out beyond the rest of the group and number 1 for me .🤘RUSH🤘Smiles 😃 from Canada 🇨🇦

[@cranehook4715]

It's amazing to see over many years how many drummers from all genres and backgrounds, how high they all hold Neil Peart.

[@morbidmanmusic]

Sorry,". He is a drummer. His percussion skills aren't even close to an average orchestra player.

[@76JStucki]

@@morbidmanmusic yeah. I think people often compare him as a percussionist to drummers who aren’t percussionists at all, and then he looks amazing. But to compare him to other percussionists…. What he does on keyboard percussion is is barely even a warmup exercise for any halfway decent college percussionists, let alone world class pros. We might say Neil was a drummer who dabbled in other percussion.

[@stxbuck]

Peart actually delayed the start of Rush’s 1996 tour-Roll the Bones?-b/c he was taking lessons from a bongo master!

[@boarhog1979]

@@morbidmanmusic What. He played jazz as well and still took lessons

[@eddiepierce7028]

I’m 66 years old and still rock hard. The drummer that made me slap my forehead was Alex. An amazing drummer and never comes up in conversation. Awesome list, Mike!

[@kimberlyelton9604]

Absolutely, Neil Peart, One of the BEST IN ÀLL OF ROCK AND ROLL!! NOONE COULD DO ON THE DRUMS OR WRITE MUSIC 🎵🎶 LIKE NEIL. HE IS AND ALWAYS WILL BE THE BEAST OF THE DRUMS!! WE SORELY MISS YOU,NEIL. R.I.P. BROTHER...

[@vaevictis_]

Mike always comes off as big music buff/nerd so it’s always nice to listen to him talk about music. So happy I got to see him perform “honor thy father” live!

[@FeretFeatures]

whatt when

[@Itsallfun3000]

Your comment triggered a memory in my mind I recall him or maybe we it James having a scooter on stage?

[@vaevictis_]

@@FeretFeatures this was in gigantour 2006 i believe? Where they coheadlined with megadeth. They played a lot of songs from train of thought so I was very happy with that

[@acerimmer8338]

Don't cross the crooked step!

[@thecornerkid402]

So glad Bruford got a shoutout. He’s one of the most underrated drummers ever and I think it’s because he’s one of the best compositional drummers. His stuff isn’t flashy or crazy, but it perfectly fits the song he’s playing for. The drums disappear into the composition, but when you pay attention you think, wow. Those are all the best choices for this part of the song.

[@flavy1000]

Agree...I think Bill was one of my first dicoveries in the rock drum world ..Then came Neil..then Van Halen and Lars..then Mike, then, lots of others...! But I can relate to catch me myself, hypnotyzed by those drumming parts..

[@stevecanfield8089]

Bill Bruford also did a stint as the touring drummer with Genesis, too.

[@frikkied2638]

And now a moment to appreciate how many of us were inspired to get into drumming by Mike himself. Legend in his own right. And such a nice guy.

[@denforcer8874]

W comment 👏👏👏

[@DarthGeddy]

Yeah, how does this list not include Mike Portnoy?!

[@theresadimarco764]

No doubt, Mike is a phenomenal sonic artist.

[@SKRX-xn9xp]

Carl Palmer! I had the honor to see him live and...just WOW!

[@dennistorrence4778]

Any top 10 list without Carl Palmer is a travesty.

[@JakeFinkelstein]

Listen to Tarkus. Then convince me he does not belong on this list.

[@mgoodwin713]

In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida was the first solo I played as a drummer in Highschool and it became A thing I will always love that song.

[@andyharman3022]

Ron Bushy. Iron Butterfly was big during the psychedelic music era, but morphed into a blues band instead of evolving into prog.

[@javiermoretti1825]

He wasn't a metal drummer, but Jeff Porcaro of Toto was definitely one of the best. His finesse and taste was legendary.

[@toddhensley2204]

I have to agree. Listen to the song Rosanna. That shuffle that he does is very impressive.

[@residentpotato6023]

Toto is the absolute worst.

[@javiermoretti1825]

@@residentpotato6023 You are either not a musician or a mindless drone who listens to nothing except metal.

[@bdan19921]

​@residentpotato6023 yeah they are.

[@70mcnevin]

@@residentpotato6023 you might not like TOTO. But Jeff Porcaro was a signature style drummer. One of the most sought after drummers in his time. If you can't distinguish his pure talent from the band and appreciate just how phenomenal he was, then I question your taste in drumming period. Steely Dan didn't just take any drummer who could keep time out of the studio musician pool and put them on their albums.

[@robertpatterson3406]

Carl Palmer was the pioneer of prog music and during the height of his music was listed as the greatest drummer several years. Also Billy Cobham is certainly one of the top ten drummers of all time along with Vinnie and Danny Carrey . I know there are tons to choose from but these guys are really hard to beat.

[@kathyratino962]

Yeah, I was stunned that Carl was not included.

[@SuperPrince1007]

How can you have a list of the top 11 best drummers and not have Carl Palmer on it. He should be # 1.

[@HNedel]

The list is more like the drummer that had the greatest impact on him, it’s weird that he mentions Bill Brufford and not Palmer, but that’s his musical journey.

[@justafanintexas7913]

Stupid list when you consider Palmer holds every open stroke record and tours across the kit for speed. This list was put together by a pretender with a chubby for other drummers. And Ian Paice finished second to Palmer's times.

[@davidjackson2690]

Most definately.

[@vladi9er]

I'm always torn between Peart and Bonham even though they had vastly different styles. I just really dig both. I wish Bonzo had lived longer so we'd have a larger catalogue to appreciate. The Professor lived a fascinating, full life and, as others have mentioned, was such a humble, decent, incredibly intelligent man. I've been a huge Rush and Zepp fan for almost 5 decades now!

[@theresadimarco764]

Both legendary masters.

[@tonystarkey595]

Can't forget drummers like Jeff Porcaro, Vinnie Colauita, Steve Gadd, Dave Weckl, Carlos Vega, Gavin Harrison & Nick Menza as well.

[@studgerbil9081]

As soon as he mentioned Terry Bozzio, my first thought was Vinnie Colaiuta. Both greats, but Vinnie was just a hair better.

[@rileyjackfansmithandjones8238]

​​@@studgerbil9081 I thought so too.....Vinnie just seemed to have heavier, or wider Chops,but Terry is still a Pro's Pro

[@studgerbil9081]

@@rileyjackfansmithandjones8238 I'm surprised Aynsley Dunbar didn't make the list too. Zappa always had the best drummers.

[@rileyjackfansmithandjones8238]

@@studgerbil9081 you are so right.....I'm shamed I didn't remember to include him .....he gets forgotten behind Ginger Baker, who Musicphiles still casually pass by. Thanks for spurring a fond Memory, and making a legend live on😉

[@toddwalker4301]

Yes....these guys are monsters!

[@tomservo5347]

I appreciate his picks of Bill Bruford and Stewart Copeland. Copeland's drumming on Synchronicity I always felt sounded colossal with that simple double tap on the toms that were perfectly placed and hit. Copeland said he was always looking for ways to change up simply keeping time by adding fills.

[@xDrawingDead]

Couldn’t agree more, well said. Absolutely love bruford for being the prog father and everything he did with crimson, but yes also to Copeland, that man had the biggest talent for keeping the sexiest rhythm at such a delicate pace

[@encarnacionvillazana3270]

My late uncles favorite, who was a drummer, was Mike Portnoy himself!! 👍👍

[@teddybozzio73]

Mentioning Alex Van Halen proves this gentleman is a real musician and rock lover. Perfect list. I love you mand, thanks for all you've been giving us over the years with your drumming.

[@jasondelvaux3036]

I know I'm alone in this, but I always thought Alex was higher on my list of drummers than Eddie was on my list for guitarists.

[@rothed16]

​@@jasondelvaux3036 idk if I'd go that far lol VH is my fave band, bur Eddie is still King for me. Alex is #2 on my faves behind Pert.

[@rothed16]

About to start this and wondered if Alex would get mentioned. Happy to know he is

[@Matty0923]

Love Neil Peart, RIP Professor!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@kenthurstonsmindpalace7563]

My first listen to By Tor and the Snow dog made me a Peart fan for life. Here are a few drummers and favorite songs: Ian Paice-Fireball, space Truckin Copeland-One World is enough Bonham-Fool in the rain Brad Wilk-Street Fighting Man Steve Gadd- Aja Shannon Leto- Kings and Queens Bosio-Mental Hop Scotch Josh Dun-Lane Boy Bernard Purdie-Sampled on Block Rockin Beats Van Halen-Hot for Teacher I’d love to hear other people favorites.

[@Kardaszpm]

Mike Portnoy is 55 going on 29. He's experienced and accomplished so much, yet he describes these drummers like he's still a kid listening to records and being in a band. Rock forever ✌️

[@edalisauskas7313]

Bill Bruford is not mentioned enough My favorite drummer Such a master Overall great list, Mike. We hear the influences in your playing

[@scottmcfeely6426]

Neil Peart really idolized Keith Moon but his respect and admiration for Bill and how Neil took some pages from Bill Bru handbook because he is really good at off beat stuff similar to how Danny Carey is too. Says it all really.. every member of rush loved Bill bru’s band. And of course Yes. Too bad age is taking the good ones..

[@zerpblerd5966]

I don't even like jazz typically but I will put his solo stuffon sometimes and just listen to his playing, while it doesn't move me musically it is intellectually fascinating

[@crimlarksSteve]

Bill Bruford is a master drummer. The work he did with Yes, King Crimson and his Earthworks band is fantastic.

[@sleeplessingc]

agreed, him and Clem Burke. Hal Blain as well..

[@BlakJak21]

This is Mike’s favorite not yours😂😂😂

[@bobfitzpatrick8952]

I'm so glad you mentioned Bill Bruford; in 1985 we walked into a club and got to stand ten feet from the guy and watch him tune up. I wanted to talk with him so bad, but he was working. We did get to chat with Pat Moraz who was there with him that night. You've shared so many good things here today - thanks!!!

[@cgoodICT]

A drummer that everyone heard back in the late 70s and throughout the 80s on many different albums, even though most didn't realize it...Jeff Porcaro

[@symbiosisai]

That applies to all the guys in Toto

[@floydcooley1]

I really didn't appreciate him until the last decade. Great drummer.

[@timhenderson6473]

Took me forever to learn rosanna.still can't nail that groove he had though

[@drumsport]

@@timhenderson6473 Nobody can get the ghost noting and feel on the hat like Jeff.

[@jaybee7890]

good studio drummer

[@1yoshi426]

my boy BRUFORD! I love his drumming in Red and Fragile, I can't get enough of his playing in Starless and Heart of the Sunrise. Those are some of my favorite songs of all time.

[@sebastiangarla8558]

The drumming in Roundabout its pretty complex too

[@joenicoletti5588]

Close to the Edge is insane.

[@dennisnickoloff1723]

Check Bruford's album 'One of a Kind' 👍👍

[@bobgraham3931]

Awesome Mike. Thanks! Phil Rudd, Neil, Bill Ward, Lars, Dave Lombardo, Alex Van Halen, Scott Rockenfield, Nicko McBrain, Mark Zonder, Dave Weckle, Ian Paice

[@christophercrabtree3874]

Not sure I ever expected to see a list with Rudd, Lars, Weckl, and Zonder😂. Mind blown!

[@joeypeacock1673]

Great list of world class drummers. I'm an old drummer and have been playing since the 60s and one that really influenced my playing style was Ginger Baker. He was unique and had elements of jazz. RIP Ginger.

[@williambarry8015]

Can't argue about Ginger.

[@signedupfordoconly4275]

I recently saw a video of Ginger talking trash about Bonham. He dropped a couple notches for me because of that attitude.

[@JohnWarner-lu8rq]

@@signedupfordoconly4275 They were both Jazz-based drummers.

[@danlawrence4351]

I was searching to see if anyone mentioned Ginger. Always tasteful drumming.

[@captainjefferies9047]

@@JohnWarner-lu8rq Neither was jazz based.

[@aeynosarturii8053]

If you have never looked into Stewart Copelands influences, the guy has a really unique take on drumming and rhythm from his childhood environment. After watching a doc on him and going back to listen to his drumming the mechanics of his playing are astounding. So many good drummers on this list, and so many more that are not on Mike's list. Will add a modern day drummer, Gavin Harrison from Porcupine Tree, Pineapple Thief and King Crimson, as another drummer that blows my mind listening to him.

[@PepeAtreides-s3b]

Stewart has always been one of my favorites too…I don’t even know why but my ears can’t get enough

[@sailordave1000]

Wish these drummer list would at least give an honorable mention to Buddy Rich. He wasn’t a rock drummer but he was a great drummer that inspired many that came after him. What he could do with a small drum set made it sound like it was a huge set. He was fast and precise in his taps. He hit the drums in different places to get different tones.

[@asmundukkelberg8741]

I love Bonham, Ward, Moon, Baker and other well known greats. But there is one guy that is mentioned too seldon: Aynsley Dunbar. His playing has that sharp, precise punch...

[@MatteoSettenvini]

I really like the work of Gavin Harrison, especially in Porcupine Tree. He is one of the "minors" that for me is huge.

[@irena7777777]

Nothing minor about Gavin Harrison. Prefer him to most on MP’s list

[@randysetterberg4672]

No "minor" - within his contextual framework, hands down the best percussion on the market today.

[@kingcurry6594]

@@irena7777777 Gavin Harrison is indeed superb. Andy Edwards who played on Frequency by IQ is very similar and also quite brilliant. Gary Husband of Level 42 and the John McLaughlin band is also superb.

[@irena7777777]

@@kingcurry6594 Gary Husband is ace. Plays keyboards for John McLaughlin, though. Drummed for Allan Holdsworth

[@jimnarvel9794]

The Dave Weckl or Vinnie C of prog drumming

[@rothed16]

Nice list. Some i don't know well, but it's your list. Interesting and i wrote the ones i didnt know down and will check them out. Mine in no order 1. Neil Pert 2. Alex Van Halen 3. Nicko McBrain 4. Clive Burr 5. Tommy Lee 6. Bill Ward 7. John Bonham 8. Keith Moon 9. Ginger Baker 10. Phill Rudd 11. Buddy Rich

[@kiwimurray2244]

Bill Bruford is the man. Compared to all the drummers on this list, he seems to have the most “different” style to my ears. So interesting how his style and Neil Peart’s style are completely and absolutely different, yet both fit their own prog music perfectly.

[@RobDTom]

Holy cow. Was reading the comments while watching the video and didn’t see any comments about Terry Bozzio then I hear you say “ at number 6 is Terry Bozzio!” He’s my favorite!

[@johndublyoo2553]

Starting with Buddy Rich in my early years right though to the present day there are so many drummers who grab my attention and to be honest I like them all simply because they can.

[@joewalker511]

Phil Collins was the sleeper virtuoso in the seventies....the stuff he played with Brand x in 1976 is unbelievable....just heard the peel sessions and was just blown away by his chops and feel..

[@crankfastle8138]

Agreed. He was such a great drummer. Even some of his 80s genesis is underrated

[@communitycollegegenius9684]

No, as a drummer he's pretty normal and way too POP music for serious consideration as "best ever". In the 70's Phil was a very good percussionist and composer, creating his part and the dynamics of the overall pieces. We all owe a debt to Phil for the things (best ever music) that he helped to create. BUT after 1978 we really should be very angry at the nearly 40 years of incredible Genesis prog music we MISSED OUT on because he wanted to sing and dance to pop crap.

[@joewalker511]

@communitycollegegenius9684 pretty normal as a drummer? If you consider Cinema Show live with Bill Bruford, all of Trick of the Tail, Nuclear Burn,the Brand x peel sessions,pretty normal......the list goes on and on.....then you know nothing about drumming,and probably music in general....Phil was an extremely advanced player in the seventies handling all kinds of crazy time signatures with groove and feel....study some music theory,then make comments...

[@joewalker511]

@@communitycollegegenius9684 kzbin.info/www/bejne/rKCanoynlrJ-jqM

[@joewalker511]

@@communitycollegegenius9684 kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5-XoXaNntGLecU

[@rammfan234]

I love this list! Not heard the brilliant work of a lot of the people on this list. Neil Peart, Mike Portnoy, and John Bonham are always on my list. My list includes: Tim Alexander from Primus & A Perfect Circle, Dana Carey from Tool, Jay Weinburg from Slipknot, Chad Smith from Red Hot Chili Peppers, Dave Grohl from Nirvana, Sean Kinney from Alice in Chains, and Mike Bordin from Faith No More

[@blacksunshine1437]

Awesome list of drummers, maybe I would have add Mitch Mitchell i think is so underrated. My favorite drummer today is Paulina Villarreal from The Warning. 🤘

[@jah9253]

Many great drummers so hard to pick a favorite. That said, my favs are Gavin Harrison, Simon Phillips, and Steve Gadd. Of course, Portnoy, you are pretty incredible yourself.

[@commonman317]

I'm Mike's age, but I'm a life long amateur drummer. For me, it was Ringo, Bonham, and Peart. My first concert at 15yrs old was RUSH, the Signals tour, March 21st, 1983 at the Lakeland Civic Center. Wow! 40 years ago already. I will never forget seeing Neil's dark red double bass set up close. So impressive. Still hurts to know Neil isn't with us anymore.

[@azdbuk]

Same exact story here, signals tour, Feb 83, 16 yrs old, third concert behind Ozzy then Stones (motorhead opened for Ozzy), lol I think I was 14. Anyway, Neal's beats have been in my head since probably '81, I don't think they will ever leave. I think Subdivisions is my favorite rock drum song of all time.....RIP NP>

[@biermacht1664]

What an amazing list 👌 nothing fancy, nothing too shocking, just the facts. I'm glad Benante was mentioned, he's out of this world.

[@digmacdiggydoo]

I always loves Mick Tucker from Sweet. The fact that the band had so many styles of music, from their classic hits to hard rock songs makes me appreciate his style. And love Ian Mosley from Marillion. Starting with the Fugazi album, he took the band in a new direction and his playing is fantastic.

[@floydcooley1]

So underrated!

[@NIGHTFRIGHT2011]

Thank you for mentioning the great Mick Tucker. Can't believe how he played double bass while wearing huge platform heels. His solo on the live version of The Man with the Golden Arm(1973) where he duets with himself on a pre recorded backing track was something special.

[@Cupra317hp]

Truly

[@JeffMatthews-f8d]

There are two Drummers that were my Inspiration for picking up a set of sticks 50 years ago and learning to play drums. I saw Mr. Buddy Rich on the tonight show and he completely blew me away, I read and watched everything i could find on him and for a guy who never had a lesson all I can say is Incredible! The 2nd guy I heard and my drum Hero was Mr. John Henry Bonham, as Mike said bonzo hit those drums like a lumber jack but he also had so much finesse on the kit. And one thing he had that a lot of drummers don't have is the ability to groove, and bonzo could groove like a M.F. I absolutely loved the guy and like a lot of others I was devastated when he passed. There were many amazing drummers and many have been an inspiration to me over the years. Neil Peart "the Professor" every drummer mike mentioned, + we can't forget Mike Portnoy, Awesome.drummer, Alan White, Mitch Mitchell was incredible, Nick Mason, Carl Palmer ELP., Clive Bunker, Dave Grohl Amazing, I could go on forever, Jo Jo Mayer! WOW....

[@wesleyhitchcock4414]

My brother in law Gerald Burus was a Buddy Rich student. And man did it show!!! Gone this month(oct 2001) 22 years and i miss him

[@danboid]

I can't believe I had to read about 20 comments before someone mentioned Buddy Rich. I'll have to mention Gene Krupa as well as Christian Vander, Robert Wyatt and Mitch Mitchell.

[@gregoryberg5806]

I’m almost 60, and my dad was a very good drummer. I grew up listening to Buddy Rich. One of my favorite albums still today is Rich vs Roach, with Buddy Rich drum dueling with Max Roach on various songs.

[@whity72]

Very interesting view. Mine also go across the styles, starting from Michael Charles Avory from The Kinks with his cool fills over Jon Hiseman and Buddy Rich to Dennis Chambers, Billy Cobham and Simon Phillips.

[@carolesposito4926]

Vinny and Carmine Appice both brothers made history as they both kept on topping the charts for decades .

[@robiandolo]

Yet another set of great choices.

[@kenmcnutt2]

Mike is #2 on my list, second to only Peart. Saw Mike in concert six times plus one drum clinic. Taught me how to count odd time signatures. Besides for Tom Sawyer and La Villa Strangiato, Pull Me Under had the biggest impact on me drum-wise. The Metropolis 2000 tour was one of the best shows I ever saw out of over 75 concerts total.

[@ephrimvael]

Great to see Ringo in there! ..rough and ready, yet I've never heard a Beatles track that missed a beat!! .. Carl Palmer is my fave!!

[@Original_Lurke_fromthe_Unknown]

In my opinion Phil Collins is always on my list. Although he’s not drumming anymore, but you can’t deny the drummer he was. Neil Peart also named him as one of his influences.

[@JC-ye7pj]

Never a fan of Phil, until he toured as Robert Plants drummer '83 Principle of Moments tour, spectacular drummer, he didn't sing a note that night.

[@robert2948]

@@JC-ye7pj great tour. RIP Bob Mayo.

[@Joesfosterdogs]

Duke & Abacab have the greatest drum sounds...both drumming masterpeices

[@keithf_]

Yeah I've always been impressed with Phil Collins' drumming style and prowess. A great drummer indeed !

[@stanls265]

Brand X.

[@rogerriggins8319]

I’d have to add Danny Carey and Carter Beauford for their fills and ability of odd time signatures Danny is more connected as a percussionist like Neil, and Carter as a expert in fills Not one on this list I could deny because it’s Mikes influences. These are my influences Thanks man

[@royguidry1311]

Spot on. Carter is so smooth and rhythmic, Danny is insane. Gotta ad Gavin Harrison and that is my top 3. I could listen to all 3 drum for hours with no other music.

[@XCM666]

Those are my two favourites as well!

[@J-Rod73]

Danny Carey #1 for me.

[@michaelshannon9169]

Lars Ulrich bro. Let that sink in.

[@Kristina-jf4hd]

💯 agree!!!

[@etotigasad9996]

LooL

[@chrism6195]

@@michaelshannon9169 BAHAHA

[@stephengregory7026]

Rich? Gadd ? Peart ? Chambers ? Weckl ?

[@JuanKGM]

Hey Mike! This is my top 11: 1. You (Mike Portnoy) 2. Gene Hoglan 3. Richard Cristy 4. Nick Menza 5. Lars Ulrich 6. Vinnie Paul 7. Neil Peart 8. Igor Cavalera 9. Dave Lombardo 10. Paul Bostaph 11. John Bonham Thanks!

[@joetroutt7425]

Nick Menza was a great drummer. To bad he's gone too soon.

[@seano218]

Lars? Seriously?!

[@MegaUltraviolent]

Lars, you're kidding right? The guy can't drum shit for the life of him.

[@giacomo2836]

@@MegaUltraviolent Every great drummer has him in their top tier list, but u just a bozo don't? laughable

[@ToddWright2]

Since the rise of the Internet I've been listening to lots of Japanese fusion drummers with Akira Jimbo a real favorite. Any drummer should take a listen to him.

[@highway260band]

Thank you for mentioning Charlie! One of my favorites and such a humble guy!

[@larrykoopa5639]

I always loved Jimmy The Rev Sullivan of Avenged Sevenfold, he for me one of drummers more polyvalent with his powerful strike, his speed and his technique RIP Jimmy

[@coreymunroe8073]

Honestly thought he was going to give The Rev a mention from the way Mike has talked about Jimmy's drumming in interviews.

[@metalmamasue3680]

Jimmy's biggest influence by far was Mike himself. He would be so happy that Mike took his spot and did Nightmare and toured in his place. ❤ there's a great video on Drumeo about it. Check it out.

[@paulsanders1]

I agree with your list adding Scott Rockenfield of Queenryche! As a guitarist I always watched fellow guitarists in concert but Scott always transfixed me, as he beat the shit out his whole kit but sounded so good!

[@Mike-do4ns]

100% with on Scott,dude kills it and has some of the best fills and roll ins ever.

[@joetroutt7425]

Yes YESSSSS. His drum work on Operation Mindcrime is so tasteful.

[@RickAnimalTaylordrumcovers]

​@@joetroutt7425Totally agree guys!! Phenomenal drummer!!!

[@BaconIsNotBiceps]

I played for two decades. I only had a few influences but did love many. My first was Peter Criss when I was about 11, then came Bonham, then Peart. I also loved Steve Smith when I was playing. Those were my tops. Portnoy came after I was no longer drumming but has been one of my all-time favorites for sure. Now I love many like Weckl, Donati, Dicenso, Coleman, Borlai, Sucherman, etc. So many amazing drummers out there.

[@carlgibbons5777]

Thomas Lang?

[@sammyweed4771]

Love me some Bill Ward !!!!

[@JFArchambault]

I am not a drummer but I listen to almost all the bands you mentioned and even though I already pay mention to drummers (who doesn't know Neil Peart and who doesn't know Dave Weckl when listening to Chick Corea's Electrik and Acoustic Bands), your video will make me pay and discover a lot more appreciation for underrated and properly rated drummers. Ringo Starr being your biggest influence was like wow! Your video shows how little I know about appreciate drumming.

[@davidzoller9617]

I can relate to that list 100%. Also by mentioning the importance of the musicality of a drummer you hit an important point. All technique isn't worth much if you don't feel where and how to apply it, and less is often more.

[@dlgonser]

When I was 11, my oldest brother showed me this crazy instrumental band that blew me away. The drummer was Mike Portnoy, the band was Liquid Tension Experiment

[@maximummatt73]

Cool story

[@LarsSchön-q5k]

All very good drummers!! But I have one I think that deserves a spot on the list: Barriemore Barlow of Jethro tull, Fantastic!!

[@morsecode2112]

YES!!!!!

[@scottthompson4193]

Finally Alex VH getting some love, so underrated I've always thought his cymbal implementation is crazy good!!! Great list Mike, but come on where is Bill Ward?

[@scottlaughlin9897]

He did give him and Ian Paice a mention

[@mitchellhughes5180]

My friend used to always say Alex Van Halen doesn’t play the drums, he plays the cymbals

[@thefollandgnat]

Maybe he wanted to give drummers from other countries a chance?

[@scottthompson4193]

@@thefollandgnat Bill Ward is from England

[@thefollandgnat]

@@scottthompson4193 I know, that's exactly my point. Maybe he left him (and Paice) out to give drummers from other countries a look-in, otherwise what with Moon, Bonham, Starr, Bruford, it would look a bit England-heavy (doesn't bother me, I'm English!).

[@nicholaslynch522]

I love listening to Mike Portnoy. I could listen to him all day.

[@flavy1000]

Same!!!

[@stevedriscoll2539]

What a great list. All awesome drummers. Neil is my favorite. You gotta be right there too Mike

[@Crazydrumguy7]

My first influence when I first started playing drums was Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan. Now I'd say the biggest influences of mine that naturally come out while I play are Daney Carey, Mike Portnoy, and Mario Duplantier.

[@kranmaster]

I happened onto Mahavishnu Orchestra as a guitar player in my teens, and as brilliant as John Mclaughlin is, Billy Cobham absolutely blew me away. He's a phenom man; essential listening for any musicophile.

[@seano218]

Spectrum is an incredible album!

[@kranmaster]

@worldclassicguitarists Such a killer album!

[@kranmaster]

@@seano218 Indeed!

[@jarodofficer]

Great video, Mike. It's the stories of WHY they're your favorites that make it special, and YOU are certainly on a lot of people's list. On another note, I've seen just a couple mentions of Dave Weckl on here. While any discussion of a GOAT among drummers makes no sense, I will say that when I saw a few videos of Weckl recently, I was wondering if this is the "best" drummer I've ever seen. He's just that good. I don't know how I went so long without truly discovering him. Hell, we listened to Chick Corea's band when we were in jazz band in high school in the 80's. Rock drummer fans, if you don't know Weckl, do yourself a huge favor and check out some of his stuff. His control, fluidity, dynamics, connection - it's all just amazing to hear (and watch). Also, I have to throw one shout-out to Richie Hayward of Little Feat - one of the masters of groove and behind-the-beat feel. Always loved his ear for tone and perfect snare sound, too. Keep good music alive, everybody! :)

[@vicsdungeon]

My trinity is Lombardo, Hoglan and Mikkey Dee. Lars was the first drummer that I air drummed to, love his stuff on the first albums. Sean Reinert is another monster and after that I would go with personal favorites Greg Hall of Sacred Reich, Igor Cavalera (89-93 especially), Kirk Arrington of Metal Church and definitely Mike Portnoy himself. I've seen Dream Theater four times in in 97-'00 and he had the Keith Moon effect, just couldn't take my eyes off him.

[@treff9226]

Gene Hoglan is as good a person as he is a drummer! I grew up around Dark Angel and Gene was so cool, down to earth, great human! Cool to see Igor Cavalera mentioned, he is a beast! He has that innate Brazillian rhythm in his blood - early Sepultura was vicious, and Igor was an integral part of their singular sound. Great post! p.s. Lombardo is M A G I C!

[@TheCyberMantis]

Hoglan did some sick stuff with DEATH. Mikkey Dee was great in King Diamond.

[@paulpv7]

And why did you not go to dream theater after 2000?

[@vicsdungeon]

@@paulpv7 I lost interest after Train of Thought personally, didn't get a chance in the meantime.

[@brianallen8091]

Definitely! Kirk Arrington & Igor are 2 incredibly fast & tasteful drummers that should be MANDATORY they’re included alongside Charlie, Dave & Lars.

[@johncrafton8319]

Just watched you, Mike, along with Billy and Richie in Minneapolis last night. You guys killed it. It was my son's first small-club concert, and he was blown away. Thanks, man. Seriously.

[@CRiCRiCri694]

Hi Blue Beard. You are a great listener. Your taste goes beyond your listening and shows in your playing. Thank you for being a great listener as well as a player. You have done justice to great music no matter the genere

[@cjbyelick8630]

Mike Portnoy (much like Neil Peart) always seems almost giddy when talking about music. He has always been one of my favorite drummers because his passion as a fan and his "ever the student" attitude is what takes someone with extraordinary talent to that truly elite level that very few will ever be capable of reaching.

[@TheDondoran]

Didn't really pay a lot of attention to drums *until* I started to listening to prog metal, around age 16, and Portnoy was one of the first that really caught my ear. Since then I've grown to love a lot of drummers on this list, but my absolute favorites (in addition to Portnoy) are Gavin Harrison, Baard Kolstad, Mark Zonder, Sean Reinert, Danny Carey, and Jukka Nevalainen.

[@duanecarroll4375]

I’ve read 3 different books on The Beatles and all 3 authors spoke on Paul McCartney being aggravated with Ringo not getting the beat correct so Paul would sit down at the drums and show him where he needed to go with it

[@NoelKerns]

I'm amazed he doesn't mention Ian Paice; such an amazing drummer.

[@Nevernow721]

He did mention him but didn't include him on the list. I've also thought that Ian Paice didn't get the recognition he deserved.

[@JamesMoore-un3cu]

@@Nevernow721 I agree, Paice is highly underrated.

[@lastmanstanding9389]

Love your list and take on each drummer. Keith Moon is my goat mainly because that was my era and of course he was the first rock drummer to really stand out as a showman. My mom loved Gene Krupa and when I bought my first Who album she saw the similarities with Keith and liked The Who even though she was from the swing era. I think Zak Starkey, like his dad Ringo, is also very underrated and he has really carried the Who till this very day.

[@saxon1177]

I could be wrong, but I would bet money that most people would pick Neil Peart as the all-time best rock drummer. he didn't bang the hardest or the fastest but what he put together was amazing.

[@markbarnfield5147]

All great drummers. And so many more that didn’t make this list. Chester Thompson was one of mine. Just always remember the golden rule: my favorite drummer, is your favorite drummers favorite drummer. RIP NEIL. You truly changed the world!

[@chiefkirk]

Mike you are my favorite all time drummer. The first time I heard you was with DT. I was in awe. I didn't think a human could do some of the stuff you were doing. You are #1 brother.

[@SteveEarle-q9n]

Wow man. You just blew my mind and inspired even more respect with your number one as soon as I started this video. The Beatles are also my favorite band of all time. But I'm a rock drummer and everything. And you, of all people to openly share your all-time favorite Drummer, in Ringo Starr... I'm sure that blew a lot of peoples minds right off the bat! LMAO yes, he's also one of my all-time favorites. He always played the perfect part four the song. The most tasteful Drummer I've ever heard...

[@marcelopaiva8746]

Amazing top 11. My list, with chronological order of impact: 01-John Bonham, 02-Neil Peart, 03-Carl Palmer, 04-Stewart Copeland, 05-Igor Cavalera, 06-Dave Grohl, 07-Dave Abbruzzese, 08-Carter Beauford, 09- Mike Portnoy, 10-Danny Carey, 11-Aric Improta 🥁🤘🏼

[@FirstLast-cd6vv]

Grohl higher than Portnoy? You're a tool.

[@marcelopaiva8746]

this order is related to the moment each drummer made an impact on my musical taste and this is not about who is better. For a decade now, I've considered TOOL's Danny Carey to be my favorite. He tells stories with his drumsticks. He's a musician from another planet. 😇

[@ElpIsCool]

THANK YOU for mentioning Carl Palmer! He is in my opinion the single most underrated drummer of all time, as well as ELP being the most overlooked band!

[@dazwold]

My list (no particular order) Baard Kolstad Bill Berry Neil Peart Danny Carey Gavin Harrison Matt Cameron Stewart Copeland Phil Collins Ian Mosley Mike Portnoy Martín Méndez

[@marcelopaiva8746]

@@dazwold Cameron is a monster, but PJ's Versus its the ultimate drumming showcase from them. 😇

[@stratdx]

Our lists are almost identical. Mine has Mike Portnoy on it. Neil Peart is still my #1. That Lars nod really touched me. Thank you.

[@diffdrmr884]

Excellent selections Mr. Portnoy. Jerry Edmonton was a huge influence on my drumming. Listen to Steppenwolf's deep cuts, he was so unorthodox, I don't think he believed in crash cymbals. Gone too soon.

[@Synthetrix]

My favorites and inspirations in no particular order. Bruford, Peart, Moon, Palmer, Paice, Bozzio, Collins.

[@joegrnwave1]

a lot of my faves are on your top 11. a few others that i would add: Carl Palmer, Billy Cobham, Cozy Powell, Alan White

[@chrisallison4175]

Can't forget Billy Cobham. Amazing live.

[@shadowboy813]

My top 11 in no order, based largely on impact on me: 1: Neil Peart 2: Mike Portnoy 3: Stewart Copeland 4: Dave Lombardo 5: Lars Ulrich 6: Tim Alexander 7: Danny Carey 8: Dave Grohl 9: DH Pelligro 10: Sean Reinert 11: Mick Harris

[@frankm496]

Really great list. I'm a bit older and not a drummer (Guitarist) ,but always get motivated by the rhythm section. The new kat's today like yourself are off the charts as far as speed , technique ,and originality. I can't even make a list of modern drummers (Speed metal). Here's a few in addition to your list that must have influenced many... Carmine Appice (He wrote the book/vids on early Rock drumming. influ Bonham too.), Carl Palmer (ELP)...Tommy Aldridge . Thanks for posting, great channel

[@-dimar-]

List of my favorite drummers / musical influences 01 Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater) 02 Vinny Appice (Black Sabbath / Dio) 03 Ian Paice (Deep Purple) 04 Gavin Harrison (Porcupine Tree) 05 Mike Mangini (Dream Theater) 06 Ian Haugland (Europe) 07 Simon Wright (Dio) 08 Phil Collins (Genesis) 09 Tommy Aldridge (White Snake) 10 James Kottak (Scorpions) 11 Joey Kramer (Aerosmith)

[@Carlos-fh8wk]

Tommy Aldridge ❤

[@salvatoretotoriina9523]

​@@Carlos-fh8wkcozzy

[@thebarbecutioner6977]

Great drummers that you probably haven't heard much of; Burleigh Drummond, Grame Edge, Purdy, Porcarro, Louie Weaver, Mitch Mitchell, Ginger Baker, Ron Bushy, I play a little of every instrument, but drums are first and best. Of course I have heard of you, but didn't know anything. My first exposure to you was the Drumeo bit where you were tasked at covering Pneuma. Holy shit, you did it, taught me a lot of the "code determination", and generally impressed the shit out of me. Now I'm on a Portnoy binge. Funny how we learn things when we look. Thanks man. ROCK YOU!.

[@RavenSnore]

I was SO happy to see Dave as the last pick! When you did Lars then Charlie I got a little nervous! Then you bring out Lombardo at the end! \O/

[@bdr32965]

An often overlooked drummer was Charlie Watts of the Rolling Stones. The dude usually played with a minimal set but he could get some great sound with them. He was a perfect example of less is more.

[@larryraffburn-eg8wg]

I totally agree! Listening to the Stones he doesn’t stand out but his drumming is so perfect and tasteful that he actually helped the Stones get to where they were. His drumming inspired the way I played which I thought sometimes was too much.

[@stephensuddick1896]

For me, his less is the most. And the best.

[@bobwiley5676]

Charlie Watts is a boring drummer

[@stephenmiller2337]

Keith always said that Charlie's drumming gave him the canvas to paint on.

[@tonywright8294]

He was over looked because of mick jager and keef Richards !

[@bostonrecovery]

Great list!! I'm so psyched Moonie is on your list. Manic; electric; he played the entire kit with panache but also pure insanity. He wasn't a snare guy and I love that. Toms, cymbals constantly singing, he was such a lead instrumentalist on an instrument that doesn't often get that treatment. In a band where every member was at the top of their game, Keith still stood out.

[@tmex9588]

He’s got great taste! Here’s a few of my favs that weren’t mentioned: Igor Cavalera Danny Carey Thomas Haake Brann Dailor Vinnie Paul

[@dougk359]

Agree, any list without Danny Carey just seems incomplete.

[@jeffcharlton9660]

Great list (glad to see AVH get a mention), but Neil Peart is far and away my favorite. RIP.

[@heroldboertjens4227]

Mark Zonder with Fates Warning was crazy good. I once saw Portnoy fill in for him on a tour. I think it was 2005. Did a great job!

[@0475cmoore]

Great list but as someone else mentioned Jeff Porcaro has to be on the actual list. The Rosanna shuffle is so incredible and he was so incredibly prolific as a session musician. He added to and elevated everything he played on. Honorable mention to the list has to be Danny Carey from tool. You would be hard pressed to find any straightforward backbeats in anything he’s done. He deserves to be atleast talked about.

[@paulallison6418]

So nice to see a world class drummer make a greatest drummers list! I know it's a personal list but it does include some great drummers that are among my favourites. A list like this will always include musicians from the bands you loved growing up. For me I would have Carl Palmer, Ian Price, John Bonham, Phil Collins, Cozy Powell, Alan White, Bruford, Neil Peart, Dany Carey and a fellow called Mike Portnoy!

[@joewolfe5370]

Keith's style is unlike anybody I've ever heard or seen !! Incredible one of my favorites. Bozzio is a very technical player. Copeland taught me so much. Alex doesn't get enough credit. Love Charlie Benante. Steve Smith is the guy I really developed my playing style around. The guy is also a great jazz drummer.

[@chrisallison4175]

I thought everyone forgot about Steve Smith. If you are looking for some incredible tracks with Steve Smith check out Tom Costers album from 1985. Was originally titled 'Ivory Expedition' but when released to CD some years later it was titled 'Tom Coster'. I'm sure the tracks would be easy to find today. Check out the track 'The Dragon' then listen to the whole album. You will thank me someday.

[@nedohl9469]

Danny Carey of tool, is got to be one of the top drummers ever. Just his application and technicality is phenomenal and to incorporate different sounds and styles over time. Mike Portnoy is great as well

[@thrutheveil74]

No doubt. Danny is a beast.

[@spudfella4937]

Mike Portnoy is the greatest of all time in my opinion

[@colinburroughs9871]

Danny is great in Tool. He'd need to be doing different things in wider context than Tool for me to go all timer at this point, but he's a total drum hero- the kind of player who makes people who aren't drummers want to drum. A bit of a strange guy from what I can gather, but cool too. Got to meet him once before a Volto gig.

[@NewEnglandOutdoorsman]

@@colinburroughs9871You can check him out playing with other bands and also making random appearances in public places, bars and clubs etc, where he steps in and plays covers of other bands songs. The video of him playing The Wizard by Black Sabbath with that cover band was incredible.