[2026] A roundup of world-famous drummers who changed the history of music

Be My BabyHal Blaine

The Ronettes – Be My Baby (Official Audio)

Hal Blaine, known as a legendary American session drummer, left an indelible mark on music history, performing on countless hit songs from the 1960s through the 1970s.

As a member of The Wrecking Crew, he is especially renowned for supporting Phil Spector’s Wall of Sound style.

He played on tracks by illustrious artists such as the Ronettes and the Beach Boys, and it’s astonishing to note that he participated in over 35,000 recording sessions.

Among his many achievements, a distinctive drum beat that arose by chance on a 1963 track has become a famed riff still celebrated today.

Blaine’s influence is immeasurable, and he received numerous honors, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

He’s a must-know figure not only for those interested in drumming, but for anyone fascinated by music history.

Got The FeelingCozy Powell (Kōjī Paueru/ Jefu Bekku Gurūpu)

Jeff Beck Group – Beat Club [1972]

Cozy Powell, who played in so many bands that he earned the nickname “migratory bird.” The Jeff Beck Group was where his professional career began.

In this footage, Cozy is in his early twenties, yet he already exudes a presence that even overwhelms Jeff Beck.

Dani CaliforniaChad Smith (Chado Sumisu / Reddo Hotto Chiri Peppāzu)

Red Hot Chili Peppers – Dani California (Live in Hamburg)

Chad Smith, the drummer of the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

He’s the very linchpin of the RHCP sound, which fuses funk music with hard rock.

His chemistry with his longtime ally Flea shines brighter than ever, and they now exude the gravitas of true rock royalty.

Smoke ‘n’ MirrorsSimon Phillips (Saimon Firippusu)

Simon Phillips (L. Ritenour & M. Stern) – Smoke ‘n’ Mirrors, [drums only camera]

Simon Phillips is a renowned drummer who has performed with Toto and Jeff Beck.

He has also worked as a session drummer with The Who and Mick Jagger, which should give you an idea of his skill.

If you’re interested in drums, this video is absolutely worth studying.

Smoke On The WaterIan Paice (Ian Peisu / Diipu Paapuru)

Deep Purple – Smoke On The Water Live Video (17/08/1972 Budokan Tokyo Japan)

If you’re a rock fan, Deep Purple is a band you simply can’t avoid, and this song in particular stands alongside Highway Star as one of their signature tracks.

Many people feel their hearts race when they hear Ian Paice’s hi-hat patterns.

With his jazz-rooted drumming blending into the hard sound, Paice creates an unbeatable vibe.

Melting PotAl Jackson, Jr. (Aru Jakuson / Booker T. & the M.G.’s)

BOOKER T. & THE MG’S – Melting Pot (1971) [Video Clip] HQ

Al Jackson could be called the originator of funky drumming.

He was a member of Booker T.

& the MG’s and also a session drummer exclusively for Stax Records.

Within that comfortable groove, each note hits you like a bolt—the sound is simply outstanding.

50 Ways To Leave Your LoverSteve Gadd (Sutīvu Gaddo) (Sutīvu Gaddo)

Simon & Garfunkel – 50 Ways to Leave Your Lover (from The Concert in Central Park)

Steve Gadd can be called the key figure who brought the once behind-the-scenes job of the “studio musician” into the public eye.

In recent years, his work with Eric Clapton’s band has been especially notable.

“50 Ways to Leave Your Lover” is famous for having one of the most iconic drum intros in history.