Best of each artist · One record per artist
Best drumming
One album per artist, chosen for the drumming. Listen to the track we point out – then hear the rest of the record with new ears.
- 1 Led Zeppelin Led Zeppelin IV John Bonham’s drums on “When the Levee Breaks” were recorded in the stairwell at Headley Grange, with the microphones high above. It is one of the most sampled drum sounds there is. Listen to “When the Levee Breaks” Timeless classic
- 2 Steely Dan Aja Steve Gadd’s solo in the title track is one of the most famous moments in session drumming – advanced, but always serving the song. Listen to “Aja” Timeless classic
- 3 The Police Reggatta de Blanc Stewart Copeland’s hi-hat and reggae feel make a trio sound like a full band. “Walking on the Moon” floats thanks to everything he leaves out. Listen to “Walking on the Moon” Timeless classic
- 4 Nirvana Nevermind Dave Grohl’s snare fill at the start of “Smells Like Teen Spirit” is one of the best-known drum moments in rock. He plays hard, simple and exactly right. Listen to “Smells Like Teen Spirit” Timeless classic
- 5 Queens of the Stone Age Songs for the Deaf The same Dave Grohl, ten years on and heavier still. He guested with Queens of the Stone Age and played as if he had something to prove. Listen to “No One Knows” Modern classic
- 6 Can Tago Mago Jaki Liebezeit played like a machine with a soul. “Halleluhwah” is eighteen minutes of the same groove – and it only gets better. Listen to “Halleluhwah” Timeless classic
- 7 Talking Heads Remain in Light Chris Frantz and the guest musicians build layer upon layer of rhythm inspired by Fela Kuti. The drums are the record’s engine. Listen to “Born Under Punches (The Heat Goes On)” Timeless classic
- 8 The Who Who’s Next Keith Moon played as if the drums were the lead instrument. Wait for his entry after the synth loop in “Won’t Get Fooled Again”. Listen to “Won’t Get Fooled Again” Timeless classic
- 9 The Beatles Abbey Road Ringo Starr’s only drum solo with the Beatles is on “The End”. It is short, melodic and very Ringo. Listen to “The End” Timeless classic
25 artists in the list.