\n\n\n\n
100. Jimmy \u201cThe Rev\u201d Sullivan<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh4.googleusercontent.com\/Wcx5Kwfync1hfGxz0JQkB0qnK_7vgqHhr1V1TVpkvQHiRz8XEeVW8-Nh89xBqsBQjwkDTU8IIsp-YiIeR-MsShtQnD61YUuf6K4S56lDNFKBMQZrwoT6lxW_Oni4mQrq40gXdDfo\" "\\"\\"")
Gabriella\/Flickr<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nJimmy \u201cThe Rev\u201d Sullivan was the drummer for the heavy metal band Avenged Sevenfold. He began playing the drum set when he was ten years old. During his early years, his primary areas of focus included rock, fusion, and thrash metal. He also studied drum theory and technique. Throughout his time with Avenged Sevenfold, Sullivan became known for his fast double bass drum playing, his rudimental drum fills, as well as his way of using two ride cymbals in his grooves. He also performed with Brian Haner, Suburban Legends, and Pinkly Smooth.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cCity of Evil\u201d – Avenged Sevenfold, \u201cAvenged Sevenfold\u201d – Avenged Sevenfold<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
99. Anika Nilles<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh5.googleusercontent.com\/2Kp6rNwUhG3IIxPu8OXYXgPON5G-Ja49_yLZ0aDSnFZV7xxvH_uMKOxBwEY3t5dlbq3aWosXApAj3xfVjWqrCI6k7q8XclvmAB2erTGcWtF-I1Q1jV6uKt28wC_WK_B48JY3aK-0\" "\\"\\"")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAnika Nilles became a YouTube sensation when she released her first video \u201cAlter Ego.\u201d She started drumming when she was six years old and has since studied with master educators like Claus Hessler and Jost Nickel. In addition to releasing play-through videos on her YouTube channel, Nilles performs with Nevell as well as her own band. Her playing style regularly incorporates ideas based on odd note groupings, subdivisions like quintuplets and septuplets, and linear patterns.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cPikalar\u201d – Anika Nilles, \u201cAnika Nilles\u201d – Anika Nilles<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
98. Matt Cameron<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh5.googleusercontent.com\/-j2Q9zDGVXWSgdKymDUOXruLS-6savXt_6HikZZ8TNSy5dywFr3SzQZ4d-XYJFPJgAfEeA9ycRMp8iUfWhwz1WDPwMeCTtG5DdAoRHH8JrCFEAWQh2rdLw_JRej0NgollhGLrF8t\" "\\"\\"")
Clay Lancaster\/Flickr<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nMatt Cameron is best known for his work with Soundgarden and Pearl Jam. Cameron began performing professionally in San Diego when he was 14 years old. At the age of 20, Cameron moved to Seattle. It was in Seattle that he met the members of Soundgarden. It wasn\u2019t until the late 1990s when he joined Pearl Jam as their permanent drummer. Matt Cameron is known for his rudimental approach to creating drum fills, his incorporation of open-handed playing, and his musicality – more specifically, his ability to choose when or when not to take the spotlight during a song.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cSuperunknown\u201d – Soundgarden, \u201cBackspacer\u201d – Pearl Jam<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n97. Brian Blade<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh4.googleusercontent.com\/qhWUYUQ725kEigiB1ogoLBM1gcSP8g9SJB-HR-Fm0cBOhwa2sYEyFJFqXJ2SqfJ1-kVkiyscCmrSyCVxHxgu4M403Q9q9lF1UDLO_V_06wWimaUelTI6L4fq7nAVAgzSTEHeWYJn\" "\\"\\"")
Rita Pinkse\/Flickr<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nBrian Blade is one of the most accomplished contemporary jazz drummers of the past 20 years. He grew up listening to gospel music, and when he was a teenager, he began playing the drums. When he started drumming, he discovered legends like Elvin Jones, Art Blakey, Miles Davis, and John Coltrane. In addition to leading his own group, Brian Blade & The Fellowship Band, he has achieved success working with David Binney, Kenny Garrett, Chick Corea, Wayne Shorter, John Patitucci, Norah Jones, Joshua Redman, and Bob Dylan. Brian Blade is a master of sound and texture – he is often seen using a variety of different sticks, brushes, and mallets.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cSeasons of Change\u201d – Brian Blade & The Fellowship Band, \u201cWithout a Net\u201d – Wayne Shorter<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n96. Matt Garstka<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh6.googleusercontent.com\/Ta1AwAeTqc3MGz70DglskYHisRs41tLKPrPEKNWCKwlYVt3CHg7l_m0EDZ7VYd2LjhKdXZxzjEc0l_R4jg-BZKRpSjChRLwqguSnn3-gryyfLYREGthZM8qjH_qMEB9rsEIBRIMk\" "\\"\\"")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nMatt Garstka became the drummer for the progressive metal band Animals as Leaders in 2012. When Garstka was young, his father introduced him to blues, reggae, and rock music. By the time he was a teenager, he had already begun playing jazz, fusion, and Latin music. By learning how to play all of these different styles, Garstka set himself up for success. After listening to \u201cThe Joy of Motion,\u201d his first album with Animals as Leaders, many of his childhood influences are evident. Whether it\u2019s his syncopated Latin-influenced ride cymbal patterns, or his swing-influenced, triplet-based ghost note figures, Garstka has fused all of his influences together to create his own distinct style.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cThe Joy of Motion\u201d – Animals as Leaders, \u201cThe Madness of Many\u201d – Animals as Leaders<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n95. Will Calhoun<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/DpCgQ1VOn9BZ1d-ehnlsZPocDI5p9B3fWst0D2RonutgXIDaEflIpl5DEGGz9uw1hOu_4IhKqi42q8Pp2SvkwfR-IPv8MpSdZP-80pwjinQKOL1g0QrkTfnyzqxuCuIBO4FI2OMP\" "\\"\\"")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWill Calhoun is an accomplished drummer from New York known for being a member of the band Living Colour. While Calhoun is typically considered a rock drummer, he has also had a successful career playing blues, jazz, fusion, pop, and hip-hop music. He has performed with Wayne Shorter, Jaco Pastorius, Marcus Miller, Mos Def, B.B. King, Paul Simon, Public Enemy, and Run-DMC. Calhoun\u2019s unique playing style fuses elements from all of these different styles of music. He also uses electronic pads and triggers into his setup which allows him to incorporate sounds and effects that can\u2019t be created on an acoustic drum set.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cVivid\u201d – Living Colour, \u201cCelebrating Elvin Jones\u201d – Will Calhoun<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n94. <\/strong>Tony Royster Jr.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/ht3tofVPM8DViobQivPX959EfyfngPXGzavpNGxP4AnV79hGHOLuzMWvt1kIRtAnuT5kBVb8zKsgVr4NfnZ8YopAAZXw3P0A7hvUApRoZpfc9gmkBLDZsEisScm_kfAxsYUOrCsw\" "\\"\\"")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nTony Royster Jr. won the 1995 Guitar Center Drum-Off Competition when he was just 11 years old. When he was young, his drumming heroes were two of the greatest fusion drummers in history: Billy Cobham and Dennis Chambers. His drumming frequently demonstrates his blazing fast hand and foot speed, as well as his incorporation of \u201cgospel chops\u201d and linear patterns. Tony Royster Jr. has performed with many of today\u2019s greatest R&B, pop, and hip-hop artists including Katy Perry, Mac Miller, Jay-Z, Joe Jonas, AWOLNATION, Residente, Big Sean, and Tori Kelly.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cThe Evolution of Tony Royster Jr. Soundtrack\u201d – Tony Royster Jr. & ASAP, \u201cMegalithic Symphony\u201d – AWOLNATION<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n93. Joey Jordison<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/29152233\/Screen-Shot-2020-07-29-at-6.22.08-PM-1024x559.png\" "\\"\\"")
Kieran Krud\/Flickr<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nJoey Jordison is best known for his work with Slipknot. He joined the band in 1995 and continued to record and perform with them until the end of 2013. Jordison is known for his double bass drumming and his incredible speed and endurance. On stage, you will typically find him seated behind a massive double bass drum kit, masked or unmasked. In addition to Slipknot, he has worked with Rob Zombie, Murderdolls, Korn, Marilyn Manson, Sinsaenum, among many others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cSlipknot\u201d \u2013 Slipknot, \u201cIowa\u201d \u2013 Slipknot<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n92. Josh Freese<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh4.googleusercontent.com\/RhigEvtRbdBRONQNRQhI8grZ_DOVQ8TrFwukAz9ibXfWU_g0vvZ8WT8IWchNR223q2VS0vRVhbuK-2OtMFfoNUINcQMeVXTvpJe3qxPqi16vrj2GPm7wPWU9aVMT97fFPQRQPDFu\" "\\"\\"")
BlurredCulture.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nJosh Freese is known for his work as a touring and session drummer, and as the new drummer for the Foo Fighters<\/a>. He started playing the drums when he was eight years old, and by the age of 12, he was performing professionally in the Disneyland Top 40 Band. Freese began playing with Dweezil Zappa at the age of 19 and later went on to work with Sting, M\u00f6tley Cr\u00fce, Guns N\u2019 Roses, Katy Perry, A Perfect Circle, Weezer, Paramore, Daughtry, The Vandals, Devo, The Offspring and many more. Through his extensive work as a session drummer (he appears on hundreds of albums), Josh Freese has mastered the art of versatility.
<\/p>\n\n\n\nRecommended Albums: \u201cMer de Noms\u201d – A Perfect Circle, \u201c57th & 9th\u201d – Sting<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n91. <\/strong>Abe Laboriel Jr.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh5.googleusercontent.com\/70IaYPG0VdtUw-tF_e67aoH3zglc1Y8kQ_Xd_cKKT_CvTkDjWFXYYRbLrx1ky5F4G6WaFTTch0ZBoBAkZ17MzKTNmBgbwFi7fF22LTxMs8NBnlwmRxWp5Yd1s52DzybE9ezbJls7\" "\\"\\"")
Eric The Fish\/Flickr<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nAbe Laboriel Jr. is a touring and session drummer best known for his work with Paul McCartney. Having been mentored by Jeff Porcaro himself, Laboriel was bound for success. He began playing the drums when he was four years old, and by the time he was 21, Laboriel was playing with Steve Vai. Since the 1990s, he has also performed with Sting, Eric Clapton, Shakira, Lady GaGa, Sheryl Crow, Steve Lukather, Duran Duran, B.B. King, Kelly Clarkson, and many other artists.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cBack in the U.S.\u201d – Paul McCartney, \u201cGood Evening New York City\u201d – Paul McCartney<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
90. Chris \u201cDaddy\u201d Dave<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh5.googleusercontent.com\/1vgV7xou0MbiaCvkvEM7QoJ_1wAtmy3Gy1D6YgBzLZIHDiBcAuU9BJbMA-gtR6rBOATeLPW7Us69HzzjbSBsP7lmMLF7u231tLEHODoPEMtiL_Igll49P_RtIZO1fADt67AzLm1e\" "\\"\\"")
Kalamu ya Salaam<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nGrowing up, Chris Dave was inspired by jazz and gospel music. Today, he is known for his signature pop and hip-hop drumming style that incorporates elements from his early influences. Chris Dave has performed with the Robert Glasper Experiment, Mint Condition, Beyonc\u00e9, Wynton Marsalis, Pat Metheny, and Kenny Garrett. Two of his most notable drumming contributions are his appearances on Adele\u2019s \u201c21\u201d and D\u2019Angelo\u2019s \u201cBlack Messiah.\u201d Having worked with such an array of artists, Chris Dave has proven that he can adapt to any musical situation.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cBlack Radio\u201d – Robert Glasper Experiment, \u201cStandard of Language\u201d – Kenny Garrett<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
89. <\/strong>John \u201cJR\u201d Robinson<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh5.googleusercontent.com\/Au2LxwC7Uvzah_wqSGynkvYSenvyLb-jgHx2ZicdVrfs4h4JAzgwZD3s1ngf-sFIee3-UWNlDeC7rGVlPatD30jsTsnn678BuZABgL1cjPiO2U2ttL-tSY-OluZPnDwjaU-qBQSl\" "\\"\\"")
Null Paradox<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nJohn \u201cJR\u201d Robinson is a world-class session musician who is most famous for his work with Michael Jackson. Robinson has appeared on a number of Michael Jackson\u2019s albums including \u201cOff the Wall\u201d and \u201cBad.\u201d He began playing the drums when he was eight years old, and he was performing with an original band two years later. He also attended the Berklee College of Music where he further developed his skills and abilities in many different styles of music. John \u201cJR\u201d Robinson has recorded with some of the world\u2019s most successful artists including Eric Clapton, Quincy Jones, Steve Winwood, Lionel Richie, David Lee Roth, Daft Punk, David Foster, Madonna, and George Benson.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cBad\u201d – Michael Jackson, \u201cBack in the High Life\u201d – Steve Winwood<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n88. <\/strong>Max Weinberg<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh4.googleusercontent.com\/ovPTM8r7FPfdwyXk185ZkfhM2lKXzmaCW1_FVRG3ei8c2GeyKPEK2_K4ubM0fKQQX0rIo6mXtl1J4WCLKhrBxuV3OB-SzJCy-1iKrY04UyZs3icCBrrsyxCtRxxtceuvHgMEPwDy\" "\\"\\"")
Cortona Mix Festival\/Flickr<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nMax Weinberg has been the drummer for Bruce Springsteen\u2019s E Street Band since 1974. Weinberg started drumming when he was six years old. His greatest inspirations were Buddy Rich, D.J. Fontana, Ringo Starr, and Gene Krupa. Apart from working with Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, Weinberg has worked with Meat Loaf, Carole King, Air Supply, and Bonnie Tyler. Max Weinberg was also the bandleader on late night talk shows \u201cLate Night with Conan O\u2019Brien\u201d and \u201cThe Tonight Show with Conan O\u2019Brien.\u201d
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cBorn in the U.S.A.\u201d – Bruce Springsteen, \u201cLive\/1975-85\u201d – Bruce Springsteen<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n87. <\/strong>Terri Lyne Carrington<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh5.googleusercontent.com\/ZTFFAsRmTOaccKOI4BH3b3yvcxNexG0PF7u8AabsqfdJTNoMR4SzY3m7f7HK0jdVWKfoa4IyV63MZEou0JzIKt6ziX3E-LRfbDhtTVHkk7ytpdDTYYJoZIPYFek-Kj7HJq9mvpCV\" "\\"\\"")
Mattias Hellstr\u00f6m<\/a>\/Flickr<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nTerri Lyne Carrington is best known for working with jazz legends like Wayne Shorter, Stan Getz, Herbie Hancock, and Dizzy Gillespie. She started playing the drums when she was seven years old and went on to study at the Berklee College of Music under Alan Dawson. Her successful career has led her to perform with many other artists like Santana, John Scofield, Dianne Reeves, Mike Stern, George Duke, Esperanza Spalding, and John Patitucci. She was also the house drummer for \u201cThe Arsenio Hall Show\u201d during the late 1980s.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cRadio Music Society\u201d – Esperanza Spalding, \u201cMoney Jungle: Provocative in Blue\u201d – Terri Lyne Carrington<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n86. Larnell Lewis<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh5.googleusercontent.com\/WSgHopk1-HsACo5uJWN1vxR2LKTYPit9_ZNe_-5isW4p-GbjjMSbJ2HQhOccnTb5j3JqEap1wv5ll7VWx0Q2HWbbqXTyiwVct14uz1ZaX3zuhXgrDibw1jfCRiLfjt0ZKLuLvpjW\" "\\"\\"")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nHaving played the drums since he was two years old, Larnell Lewis has risen to become one of the most notable names in modern drumming. He is currently the drummer for the fusion band Snarky Puppy, along with Robert \u201cSput\u201d Searight who also plays drums in the band. His unique style incorporates elements of jazz, gospel, R&B, and even electronic music. In addition to performing with Snarky Puppy, Larnell Lewis has also shared the stage with Michael Brecker, Dave Holland, Laila Biali, Ranee Lee, and many other artists.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cWe Like It Here\u201d – Snarky Puppy, \u201cFamily Dinner – Volume 2\u201d – Snarky Puppy<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n85. Benny Greb<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh6.googleusercontent.com\/9qx2vO5ZAj0XOpqZVPxlyx3OMERNF2TXPNhi83EQDOWQXOiNC7WXMJvXE1cDYyX8Sug7bMMLMR4h-coTFU0p841OwHaafFmF6-ctYsk93fSif1OvEPdVyIr9rLuVcyn3caH22UUg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBenny Greb took the spotlight when he released his first instructional video \u201cThe Language of Drumming.\u201d His success escalated even further with the release of \u201cThe Art & Science of Groove,\u201d his second instructional video. Greb began playing the drums at the age of six. Throughout his childhood and teenage years, he enjoyed playing rock, punk and jazz music. Over the years, he has recorded with European pop, rock, jazz, and fusion bands. He has also released four solo albums to date. Benny Greb is known for his creativity and integration of unique sounds, his extensive vocabulary, as well as his unmatched time feel and groove.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cGrebfruit 2\u201d – Benny Greb, \u201cMoving Parts\u201d – Benny Greb<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n84. Marco Minnemann<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/13131820\/DSC_9126-1.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nMarco Minnemann has taken drum set playing to a whole new level. Through his incorporation of unique sounds (like rubber chickens!), his incredible sense of independence and interdependence, as well as his \u201cover-the-top\u201d personality, Marco Minnemann has made a name for himself in the drumming community. He is best known for his work with The Aristocrats, but he has also collaborated with Joe Satriani, Plini, Paul Gilbert, Steven Wilson, Jordan Rudess, Tony MacAlpine, and Tony Levin.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cThe Aristocrats\u201d – The Aristocrats, \u201cShockwave Supernova\u201d – Joe Satriani<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n83. Jonathan “Sugarfoot” Moffett<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/29150739\/jonathan-moffett-grooves-4-1024x576.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nJonathan Moffett is best known for his live performance work with Michael Jackson. They began working together in the late 1980s and continued to perform until Michael’s death in 2009. As Jonathan will tell you, Michael Jackson was his dance partner on stage – something that is evident when you see footage of them performing. Known for his incredible bass drum work, he was given the nickname \u201cSugarfoot\u201d, or as Michael would call him, \u201cFoot\u201d. In addition to performing with Michael Jackson, Moffett has also worked with Madonna, Elton John, George Michael, and The Jacksons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cThe Jacksons Live!\u201d \u2013 The Jacksons, \u201cOne More Story\u201d \u2013 Peter Cetera<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n82. <\/strong>Colin \u201cCozy\u201d Powell<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/29122611\/cozy.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
Cozypowell.com<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nOver the years, many accomplished rock drummers have credited Colin \u201cCozy\u201d Powell as a significant influence. His 30-year career included recording and performing with some of the most influential bands and musicians of the 20th century, such as The Jeff Beck Group, Black Sabbath, Rainbow, Whitesnake, Brian May, Yngwie Malmsteen, Jack Bruce, and Roger Daltrey. He is known as a pioneer of early heavy metal drumming.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cRising\u201d – Rainbow, \u201cSlide It In\u201d – Whitesnake<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
81. <\/strong>Gregg Bissonette<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/13131209\/DSC_1732-2.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nKnown for his work as a session and touring drummer, Gregg Bissonette is one of the most sought-after players in the industry. At the age of five, he started playing on his father\u2019s drum set. By the time he was 15, he was already performing professionally in a variety of bands and ensembles. His recording and touring resume is extensive, covering many musical styles including jazz, fusion, rock, blues, and world music. He has performed with a wide range of artists including Ringo Starr, David Lee Roth, Maynard Ferguson, Enrique Iglesias, Santana, Ozzy Osbourne, Ray Charles, and Steve Vai.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cEat \u2018Em and Smile\u201d – David Lee Roth, \u201cSupernatural\u201d – Santana<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n80. <\/strong>Virgil Donati<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh4.googleusercontent.com\/bM2fctu9FIswLmxEKYPyS0aKlkFSx5NrBsEQfqtQxoUR7AcuDP9Msd3WQ08LGc554arah7zrlxo0vVivpMKJoITwmM_4mFBO5m1P3zqPZNDvuzNg-GcLbFikOZxGAdtAVyTrWrCd\" "\\"\\"")
ShantHagopian.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nHaving played drums since the age of two, Virgil Donati is regarded as one of the most technically proficient drummers in the world. Throughout his career, he has continued to push musical boundaries through his work with Steve Vai, Planet X, Tribal Tech, Derek Sherinian, and many of his original projects. His ability to play rudiments with his feet or with multiple limbs and his ability to play layered odd-time signature grooves and fills are only small feats that Donati has demonstrated over the years. Virgil Donati has taken musical exploration and experimentation to another level.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cIn this Life\u201d – Virgil Donati, \u201cQuantum\u201d – Planet X<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n79. <\/strong>Todd Sucherman<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/L6IPr0YVZe9h47tcw5yfQxFJSenLtsIqAcer5jcxs8EKVrK65mghESjcu8KNssfeuyXg9pexpsUlBDr2jpnfdwghJ1Rw5k1bO550VcragwW6cIPi-sl2pCE6qqSInlgXlOWYfvWF\" "\\"\\"")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nTodd Sucherman has been the drummer for the progressive rock band Styx since 1995. He started playing the drums when he was two years old and was performing by the age of six. He also attended the Berklee College of Music after he graduated from high school. Since the late 1980s, Sucherman has had the opportunity to perform with Brian Wilson, Steve Cole, Spinal Tap, Tim Cunningham, and Michael Bolton, among many other artists and bands. Whether he’s in the studio doing session work or playing a stadium show with Styx, Todd Sucherman consistently demonstrates musicality, precision, and flawless technique in every situation.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cThe Mission\u201d – Styx, \u201c7 Deadly Zens\u201d – Tommy Shaw<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n78. <\/strong>Kenny Aronoff<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh3.googleusercontent.com\/q1rgzDOjyHSYYc5KeqWMVFJoWZ__i4fiNEYpQb6QhmLrsgdGSvSdkEQcaO_6tiGqULrEoII-OfGD9cJIx-KVazseG3eEEs-JnXupbLJ-virO98acKXW7z7OO8I9JA4MpzwVoHLee\" "\\"\\"")
Mike Gross\/Flickr<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nKenny Aronoff’s hard-hitting, energetic, and consistent playing style is the reason why he\u2019s one of the most active, in-demand rock drummers in the world. He is best known for his work with John Cougar Mellencamp during the 1980s and 1990s. Aronoff has also worked with Bob Seger, Rod Stewart, Avril Lavigne, John Fogerty, Jon Bon Jovi, The Smashing Pumpkins, Meat Loaf, Elton John, and The BoDeans, to name just a few.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cUh-huh\u201d – John Cougar Mellencamp, \u201cBlaze of Glory\u201d – Jon Bon Jovi<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n77. <\/strong>Jimmy Chamberlin<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh6.googleusercontent.com\/YdDN0ml0f32pLvmG4rEm7kL8TSoumh9qIfYf4szv-Okzh4SQ_KHSjZMyCq5AHvvT3mSEvqhda0B4qBEXP0T0-layvKbD2VWUBwtdy94dupHEltYX6PaPEYBD79wDj4_EaV4xFoOZ\" "\\"\\"")
Jill Harrison\/Flickr<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nJimmy Chamberlin is known for his work with The Smashing Pumpkins. He started drumming at the age of nine. During his teenage years, he primarily focused on studying Latin and jazz music. Some of his greatest influences included Buddy Rich, Gene Krupa, Elvin Jones, John Bonham, and Ian Paice. His recording credits also include work with Frank Catalano, Zwan, Skysaw, Tyson Meade, The Last Hard Men, and David Sanborn. Chamberlin\u2019s mixture of jazz and rock influences have allowed him to develop a playing style that effectively blends elements from both styles – from fast, smooth press rolls to heavy rimshots and backbeats.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cSiamese Dream\u201d – The Smashing Pumpkins, \u201cLove Supreme Collective\u201d – Frank Catalano<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n76. <\/strong>Dave Lombardo<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/15102247\/Screen-Shot-2020-01-15-at-1.21.58-PM.png\" "\\"\\"")
Ronan Therady<\/a>\/Flickr<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nDave Lombardo is known for being the original drummer of the thrash metal band Slayer. He began playing the drums when he was 10 years old, his greatest inspirations being KISS\u2019 \u201cAlive!\u201d album and Led Zeppelin\u2019s \u201cLed Zeppelin II\u201d album. His fast and aggressive double bass drum focused playing had a significant impact on heavy metal music. He is considered a pioneer of thrash metal and death metal drumming. Dave Lombardo has also worked with Grip Inc., Testament, Suicidal Tendencies, Fant\u00f4mas, and John Zorn.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cReign in Blood\u201d – Slayer, \u201cSeasons in the Abyss\u201d – Slayer<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n75. <\/strong>Mike Mangini<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/beat\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/15161558\/Screen-Shot-2020-01-15-at-7.15.33-PM.png\" "\\"\\"")
Nadia Azar<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nMike Mangini is known for his most recent work with the progressive metal band Dream Theater. His knowledge of classical and jazz music have allowed him to implement not only rhythmically complex ideas into his playing but also melodically complex ideas. His knowledge of rhythm and melody is displayed in his metal drumming through his composed drum parts as well as through his improvised solos. Before working with Dream Theater, Mangini worked with an array of artists including Steve Vai, Annihilator, Extreme, Tribe of Judah, James LaBrie, Eric Johnson, and Joe Satriani. In 2005, Mike Mangini also set a world record in the World\u2019s Fastest Drummer competition for the \u201cWorld\u2019s Fastest Hands.\u201d
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cAlive in an Ultra World\u201d – Steve Vai, \u201cDream Theater\u201d – Dream Theater<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n74. <\/strong>Chris Adler<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh6.googleusercontent.com\/Kmne-Kw7Cy-G0j2JCoRAm3XSllQjnETmhiwJKTr4zpCS1WAw2dGxEXp4epM5bLf6HI6Z5llZQl8FCBr8puoQfUGoGL3bOLqx0G6VEDjeltlprNfaAKEOUfbw0U_k0-A4OBGDAoZ6\" "\\"\\"")
ChrisAdler.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nChris Adler is a founding member of the groove metal band Lamb of God. It wasn\u2019t until Adler was 21 years old that he decided to start playing the drums instead of the bass guitar. Some of his early inspirations included Billy Cobham, Stewart Copeland, Shannon Larkin, Gene Hoglan, and Steve Shelton. In addition to playing with Lamb of God, he has more recently worked with Testament, Protest the Hero, and Megadeth. Specifically, through his work with Lamb of God, Adler is recognized for creating grooves that implement complex broken double bass drum patterns.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cSacrament\u201d – Lamb of God, \u201cVolition\u201d – Protest the Hero<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n73. <\/strong>Mark Guiliana<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/drumeoblog.s3.amazonaws.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/18093227\/mark-guiliana-drumming.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nMark Guiliana has shared the stage with some of today\u2019s greatest jazz and contemporary artists. His unique style, which integrates elements of traditional jazz with hip-hop and electronic elements, has made him one of the world’s most in-demand drummers. In addition to his unique playing style, he is known for experimenting with and creating unique drum sounds by placing cymbals on different drums, stacking cymbals on top of each other, and even placing cut out drum heads and small percussion instruments on top of his drums. He has performed with David Bowie, Brad Mehldau, Tigran Hamasyan, Phronesis, Gretchen Parlato, Avishai Cohen, and his two original groups, Beat Music and the Mark Guiliana Jazz Quartet.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cGently Disturbed\u201d – Avishai Cohen Trio, \u201cMehliana: Taming the Dragon\u201d – Brad Mehldau & Mark Guiliana<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n72. <\/strong>Tomas Haake<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh5.googleusercontent.com\/szGpLVfgrd0yr1aeObButt7XPW8CGd8Z58pePXsossGlIrMHkEtx_T0GXga6jHjET3sLj-KzquYw16ezLQJHYlyuLZj9MZ8Yfg4BGU7MMEJVLE5Ua1eqq1TG73nABHlbFWEMEk3o\" "\\"\\"")
Modern Drummer Magazine<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nTomas Haake is the drummer for experimental metal band Meshuggah. He joined the band in 1990 before releasing their first studio album, and has been their drummer ever since. Haake is known for integrating polyrhythms and polymeters into grooves that have a standard 4\/4 pulse. His grooves often feel as though they\u2019re being played in odd time signatures. However, this is only due to his use of various rhythmic illusions. Some of Tomas Haake’s greatest influences include Neil Peart, Sean Reinert, Terry Bozzio, Vinnie Colaiuta, and Gary Husband.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cobZen\u201d – Meshuggah, \u201cThe Violent Sleep of Reason\u201d – Meshuggah<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n71. <\/strong>Horacio \u201cEl Negro\u201d Hern\u00e1ndez<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lh6.googleusercontent.com\/ndMg4s3f5JAYYJ_ZS3lmCpiThz2Dk3MFHIRg4ZAxn4JoI-YF2OTIzemEdDyM8NJN7kgX1oVzLg7CgWMz-U7_tioEiMYZEljeygvbA-I1pcgz5Z0GJftOZDjXqEchDNLepfPloSWS\" "\\"\\"")
Pearl Europe<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nHoracio \u201cEl Negro\u201d Hern\u00e1ndez is a Cuban drummer and percussionist best known for merging elements of jazz and rock music with Afro-Cuban music on the drum set. Hernandez had a career in Cuba as a session drummer up until his late 20s when he moved to the United States. Since the 1990s, he has performed with Michel Camilo, Dizzy Gillespie, McCoy Tyner, Steve Winwood, Santana, and Paquito D\u2019Rivera. Horacio Hern\u00e1ndez is known for incorporating clave patterns into his drum set playing with a left-foot pedal. He also demonstrates ambidexterity behind the drum set.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cLive at the Blue Note\u201d – Michel Camilo, \u201cThru My Eyes\u201d – Michel Camilo<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n
Jimmy \u201cThe Rev\u201d Sullivan was the drummer for the heavy metal band Avenged Sevenfold. He began playing the drum set when he was ten years old. During his early years, his primary areas of focus included rock, fusion, and thrash metal. He also studied drum theory and technique. Throughout his time with Avenged Sevenfold, Sullivan became known for his fast double bass drum playing, his rudimental drum fills, as well as his way of using two ride cymbals in his grooves. He also performed with Brian Haner, Suburban Legends, and Pinkly Smooth.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended Albums: \u201cCity of Evil\u201d – Avenged Sevenfold, \u201cAvenged Sevenfold\u201d – Avenged Sevenfold<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Anika Nilles became a YouTube sensation when she released her first video \u201cAlter Ego.\u201d She started drumming when she was six years old and has since studied with master educators like Claus Hessler and Jost Nickel. In addition to releasing play-through videos on her YouTube channel, Nilles performs with Nevell as well as her own band. Her playing style regularly incorporates ideas based on odd note groupings, subdivisions like quintuplets and septuplets, and linear patterns. Recommended Albums: \u201cPikalar\u201d – Anika Nilles, \u201cAnika Nilles\u201d – Anika Nilles<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Matt Cameron is best known for his work with Soundgarden and Pearl Jam. Cameron began performing professionally in San Diego when he was 14 years old. At the age of 20, Cameron moved to Seattle. It was in Seattle that he met the members of Soundgarden. It wasn\u2019t until the late 1990s when he joined Pearl Jam as their permanent drummer. Matt Cameron is known for his rudimental approach to creating drum fills, his incorporation of open-handed playing, and his musicality – more specifically, his ability to choose when or when not to take the spotlight during a song. Recommended Albums: \u201cSuperunknown\u201d – Soundgarden, \u201cBackspacer\u201d – Pearl Jam<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Brian Blade is one of the most accomplished contemporary jazz drummers of the past 20 years. He grew up listening to gospel music, and when he was a teenager, he began playing the drums. When he started drumming, he discovered legends like Elvin Jones, Art Blakey, Miles Davis, and John Coltrane. In addition to leading his own group, Brian Blade & The Fellowship Band, he has achieved success working with David Binney, Kenny Garrett, Chick Corea, Wayne Shorter, John Patitucci, Norah Jones, Joshua Redman, and Bob Dylan. Brian Blade is a master of sound and texture – he is often seen using a variety of different sticks, brushes, and mallets. Recommended Albums: \u201cSeasons of Change\u201d – Brian Blade & The Fellowship Band, \u201cWithout a Net\u201d – Wayne Shorter<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Matt Garstka became the drummer for the progressive metal band Animals as Leaders in 2012. When Garstka was young, his father introduced him to blues, reggae, and rock music. By the time he was a teenager, he had already begun playing jazz, fusion, and Latin music. By learning how to play all of these different styles, Garstka set himself up for success. After listening to \u201cThe Joy of Motion,\u201d his first album with Animals as Leaders, many of his childhood influences are evident. Whether it\u2019s his syncopated Latin-influenced ride cymbal patterns, or his swing-influenced, triplet-based ghost note figures, Garstka has fused all of his influences together to create his own distinct style. Recommended Albums: \u201cThe Joy of Motion\u201d – Animals as Leaders, \u201cThe Madness of Many\u201d – Animals as Leaders<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Will Calhoun is an accomplished drummer from New York known for being a member of the band Living Colour. While Calhoun is typically considered a rock drummer, he has also had a successful career playing blues, jazz, fusion, pop, and hip-hop music. He has performed with Wayne Shorter, Jaco Pastorius, Marcus Miller, Mos Def, B.B. King, Paul Simon, Public Enemy, and Run-DMC. Calhoun\u2019s unique playing style fuses elements from all of these different styles of music. He also uses electronic pads and triggers into his setup which allows him to incorporate sounds and effects that can\u2019t be created on an acoustic drum set. Recommended Albums: \u201cVivid\u201d – Living Colour, \u201cCelebrating Elvin Jones\u201d – Will Calhoun<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Tony Royster Jr. won the 1995 Guitar Center Drum-Off Competition when he was just 11 years old. When he was young, his drumming heroes were two of the greatest fusion drummers in history: Billy Cobham and Dennis Chambers. His drumming frequently demonstrates his blazing fast hand and foot speed, as well as his incorporation of \u201cgospel chops\u201d and linear patterns. Tony Royster Jr. has performed with many of today\u2019s greatest R&B, pop, and hip-hop artists including Katy Perry, Mac Miller, Jay-Z, Joe Jonas, AWOLNATION, Residente, Big Sean, and Tori Kelly. Recommended Albums: \u201cThe Evolution of Tony Royster Jr. Soundtrack\u201d – Tony Royster Jr. & ASAP, \u201cMegalithic Symphony\u201d – AWOLNATION<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Joey Jordison is best known for his work with Slipknot. He joined the band in 1995 and continued to record and perform with them until the end of 2013. Jordison is known for his double bass drumming and his incredible speed and endurance. On stage, you will typically find him seated behind a massive double bass drum kit, masked or unmasked. In addition to Slipknot, he has worked with Rob Zombie, Murderdolls, Korn, Marilyn Manson, Sinsaenum, among many others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Recommended Albums: \u201cSlipknot\u201d \u2013 Slipknot, \u201cIowa\u201d \u2013 Slipknot<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Josh Freese is known for his work as a touring and session drummer, and as the new drummer for the Foo Fighters<\/a>. He started playing the drums when he was eight years old, and by the age of 12, he was performing professionally in the Disneyland Top 40 Band. Freese began playing with Dweezil Zappa at the age of 19 and later went on to work with Sting, M\u00f6tley Cr\u00fce, Guns N\u2019 Roses, Katy Perry, A Perfect Circle, Weezer, Paramore, Daughtry, The Vandals, Devo, The Offspring and many more. Through his extensive work as a session drummer (he appears on hundreds of albums), Josh Freese has mastered the art of versatility. Recommended Albums: \u201cMer de Noms\u201d – A Perfect Circle, \u201c57th & 9th\u201d – Sting<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Abe Laboriel Jr. is a touring and session drummer best known for his work with Paul McCartney. Having been mentored by Jeff Porcaro himself, Laboriel was bound for success. He began playing the drums when he was four years old, and by the time he was 21, Laboriel was playing with Steve Vai. Since the 1990s, he has also performed with Sting, Eric Clapton, Shakira, Lady GaGa, Sheryl Crow, Steve Lukather, Duran Duran, B.B. King, Kelly Clarkson, and many other artists. Recommended Albums: \u201cBack in the U.S.\u201d – Paul McCartney, \u201cGood Evening New York City\u201d – Paul McCartney<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Growing up, Chris Dave was inspired by jazz and gospel music. Today, he is known for his signature pop and hip-hop drumming style that incorporates elements from his early influences. Chris Dave has performed with the Robert Glasper Experiment, Mint Condition, Beyonc\u00e9, Wynton Marsalis, Pat Metheny, and Kenny Garrett. Two of his most notable drumming contributions are his appearances on Adele\u2019s \u201c21\u201d and D\u2019Angelo\u2019s \u201cBlack Messiah.\u201d Having worked with such an array of artists, Chris Dave has proven that he can adapt to any musical situation. Recommended Albums: \u201cBlack Radio\u201d – Robert Glasper Experiment, \u201cStandard of Language\u201d – Kenny Garrett<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n John \u201cJR\u201d Robinson is a world-class session musician who is most famous for his work with Michael Jackson. Robinson has appeared on a number of Michael Jackson\u2019s albums including \u201cOff the Wall\u201d and \u201cBad.\u201d He began playing the drums when he was eight years old, and he was performing with an original band two years later. He also attended the Berklee College of Music where he further developed his skills and abilities in many different styles of music. John \u201cJR\u201d Robinson has recorded with some of the world\u2019s most successful artists including Eric Clapton, Quincy Jones, Steve Winwood, Lionel Richie, David Lee Roth, Daft Punk, David Foster, Madonna, and George Benson. Recommended Albums: \u201cBad\u201d – Michael Jackson, \u201cBack in the High Life\u201d – Steve Winwood<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Max Weinberg has been the drummer for Bruce Springsteen\u2019s E Street Band since 1974. Weinberg started drumming when he was six years old. His greatest inspirations were Buddy Rich, D.J. Fontana, Ringo Starr, and Gene Krupa. Apart from working with Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, Weinberg has worked with Meat Loaf, Carole King, Air Supply, and Bonnie Tyler. Max Weinberg was also the bandleader on late night talk shows \u201cLate Night with Conan O\u2019Brien\u201d and \u201cThe Tonight Show with Conan O\u2019Brien.\u201d Recommended Albums: \u201cBorn in the U.S.A.\u201d – Bruce Springsteen, \u201cLive\/1975-85\u201d – Bruce Springsteen<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Terri Lyne Carrington is best known for working with jazz legends like Wayne Shorter, Stan Getz, Herbie Hancock, and Dizzy Gillespie. She started playing the drums when she was seven years old and went on to study at the Berklee College of Music under Alan Dawson. Her successful career has led her to perform with many other artists like Santana, John Scofield, Dianne Reeves, Mike Stern, George Duke, Esperanza Spalding, and John Patitucci. She was also the house drummer for \u201cThe Arsenio Hall Show\u201d during the late 1980s. Recommended Albums: \u201cRadio Music Society\u201d – Esperanza Spalding, \u201cMoney Jungle: Provocative in Blue\u201d – Terri Lyne Carrington<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Having played the drums since he was two years old, Larnell Lewis has risen to become one of the most notable names in modern drumming. He is currently the drummer for the fusion band Snarky Puppy, along with Robert \u201cSput\u201d Searight who also plays drums in the band. His unique style incorporates elements of jazz, gospel, R&B, and even electronic music. In addition to performing with Snarky Puppy, Larnell Lewis has also shared the stage with Michael Brecker, Dave Holland, Laila Biali, Ranee Lee, and many other artists. Recommended Albums: \u201cWe Like It Here\u201d – Snarky Puppy, \u201cFamily Dinner – Volume 2\u201d – Snarky Puppy<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Benny Greb took the spotlight when he released his first instructional video \u201cThe Language of Drumming.\u201d His success escalated even further with the release of \u201cThe Art & Science of Groove,\u201d his second instructional video. Greb began playing the drums at the age of six. Throughout his childhood and teenage years, he enjoyed playing rock, punk and jazz music. Over the years, he has recorded with European pop, rock, jazz, and fusion bands. He has also released four solo albums to date. Benny Greb is known for his creativity and integration of unique sounds, his extensive vocabulary, as well as his unmatched time feel and groove. Recommended Albums: \u201cGrebfruit 2\u201d – Benny Greb, \u201cMoving Parts\u201d – Benny Greb<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Marco Minnemann has taken drum set playing to a whole new level. Through his incorporation of unique sounds (like rubber chickens!), his incredible sense of independence and interdependence, as well as his \u201cover-the-top\u201d personality, Marco Minnemann has made a name for himself in the drumming community. He is best known for his work with The Aristocrats, but he has also collaborated with Joe Satriani, Plini, Paul Gilbert, Steven Wilson, Jordan Rudess, Tony MacAlpine, and Tony Levin. Recommended Albums: \u201cThe Aristocrats\u201d – The Aristocrats, \u201cShockwave Supernova\u201d – Joe Satriani<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Jonathan Moffett is best known for his live performance work with Michael Jackson. They began working together in the late 1980s and continued to perform until Michael’s death in 2009. As Jonathan will tell you, Michael Jackson was his dance partner on stage – something that is evident when you see footage of them performing. Known for his incredible bass drum work, he was given the nickname \u201cSugarfoot\u201d, or as Michael would call him, \u201cFoot\u201d. In addition to performing with Michael Jackson, Moffett has also worked with Madonna, Elton John, George Michael, and The Jacksons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Recommended Albums: \u201cThe Jacksons Live!\u201d \u2013 The Jacksons, \u201cOne More Story\u201d \u2013 Peter Cetera<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Over the years, many accomplished rock drummers have credited Colin \u201cCozy\u201d Powell as a significant influence. His 30-year career included recording and performing with some of the most influential bands and musicians of the 20th century, such as The Jeff Beck Group, Black Sabbath, Rainbow, Whitesnake, Brian May, Yngwie Malmsteen, Jack Bruce, and Roger Daltrey. He is known as a pioneer of early heavy metal drumming. Recommended Albums: \u201cRising\u201d – Rainbow, \u201cSlide It In\u201d – Whitesnake<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Known for his work as a session and touring drummer, Gregg Bissonette is one of the most sought-after players in the industry. At the age of five, he started playing on his father\u2019s drum set. By the time he was 15, he was already performing professionally in a variety of bands and ensembles. His recording and touring resume is extensive, covering many musical styles including jazz, fusion, rock, blues, and world music. He has performed with a wide range of artists including Ringo Starr, David Lee Roth, Maynard Ferguson, Enrique Iglesias, Santana, Ozzy Osbourne, Ray Charles, and Steve Vai. Recommended Albums: \u201cEat \u2018Em and Smile\u201d – David Lee Roth, \u201cSupernatural\u201d – Santana<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Having played drums since the age of two, Virgil Donati is regarded as one of the most technically proficient drummers in the world. Throughout his career, he has continued to push musical boundaries through his work with Steve Vai, Planet X, Tribal Tech, Derek Sherinian, and many of his original projects. His ability to play rudiments with his feet or with multiple limbs and his ability to play layered odd-time signature grooves and fills are only small feats that Donati has demonstrated over the years. Virgil Donati has taken musical exploration and experimentation to another level. Recommended Albums: \u201cIn this Life\u201d – Virgil Donati, \u201cQuantum\u201d – Planet X<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Todd Sucherman has been the drummer for the progressive rock band Styx since 1995. He started playing the drums when he was two years old and was performing by the age of six. He also attended the Berklee College of Music after he graduated from high school. Since the late 1980s, Sucherman has had the opportunity to perform with Brian Wilson, Steve Cole, Spinal Tap, Tim Cunningham, and Michael Bolton, among many other artists and bands. Whether he’s in the studio doing session work or playing a stadium show with Styx, Todd Sucherman consistently demonstrates musicality, precision, and flawless technique in every situation. Recommended Albums: \u201cThe Mission\u201d – Styx, \u201c7 Deadly Zens\u201d – Tommy Shaw<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Kenny Aronoff’s hard-hitting, energetic, and consistent playing style is the reason why he\u2019s one of the most active, in-demand rock drummers in the world. He is best known for his work with John Cougar Mellencamp during the 1980s and 1990s. Aronoff has also worked with Bob Seger, Rod Stewart, Avril Lavigne, John Fogerty, Jon Bon Jovi, The Smashing Pumpkins, Meat Loaf, Elton John, and The BoDeans, to name just a few. Recommended Albums: \u201cUh-huh\u201d – John Cougar Mellencamp, \u201cBlaze of Glory\u201d – Jon Bon Jovi<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Jimmy Chamberlin is known for his work with The Smashing Pumpkins. He started drumming at the age of nine. During his teenage years, he primarily focused on studying Latin and jazz music. Some of his greatest influences included Buddy Rich, Gene Krupa, Elvin Jones, John Bonham, and Ian Paice. His recording credits also include work with Frank Catalano, Zwan, Skysaw, Tyson Meade, The Last Hard Men, and David Sanborn. Chamberlin\u2019s mixture of jazz and rock influences have allowed him to develop a playing style that effectively blends elements from both styles – from fast, smooth press rolls to heavy rimshots and backbeats. Recommended Albums: \u201cSiamese Dream\u201d – The Smashing Pumpkins, \u201cLove Supreme Collective\u201d – Frank Catalano<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Dave Lombardo is known for being the original drummer of the thrash metal band Slayer. He began playing the drums when he was 10 years old, his greatest inspirations being KISS\u2019 \u201cAlive!\u201d album and Led Zeppelin\u2019s \u201cLed Zeppelin II\u201d album. His fast and aggressive double bass drum focused playing had a significant impact on heavy metal music. He is considered a pioneer of thrash metal and death metal drumming. Dave Lombardo has also worked with Grip Inc., Testament, Suicidal Tendencies, Fant\u00f4mas, and John Zorn. Recommended Albums: \u201cReign in Blood\u201d – Slayer, \u201cSeasons in the Abyss\u201d – Slayer<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Mike Mangini is known for his most recent work with the progressive metal band Dream Theater. His knowledge of classical and jazz music have allowed him to implement not only rhythmically complex ideas into his playing but also melodically complex ideas. His knowledge of rhythm and melody is displayed in his metal drumming through his composed drum parts as well as through his improvised solos. Before working with Dream Theater, Mangini worked with an array of artists including Steve Vai, Annihilator, Extreme, Tribe of Judah, James LaBrie, Eric Johnson, and Joe Satriani. In 2005, Mike Mangini also set a world record in the World\u2019s Fastest Drummer competition for the \u201cWorld\u2019s Fastest Hands.\u201d Recommended Albums: \u201cAlive in an Ultra World\u201d – Steve Vai, \u201cDream Theater\u201d – Dream Theater<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Chris Adler is a founding member of the groove metal band Lamb of God. It wasn\u2019t until Adler was 21 years old that he decided to start playing the drums instead of the bass guitar. Some of his early inspirations included Billy Cobham, Stewart Copeland, Shannon Larkin, Gene Hoglan, and Steve Shelton. In addition to playing with Lamb of God, he has more recently worked with Testament, Protest the Hero, and Megadeth. Specifically, through his work with Lamb of God, Adler is recognized for creating grooves that implement complex broken double bass drum patterns. Recommended Albums: \u201cSacrament\u201d – Lamb of God, \u201cVolition\u201d – Protest the Hero<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Mark Guiliana has shared the stage with some of today\u2019s greatest jazz and contemporary artists. His unique style, which integrates elements of traditional jazz with hip-hop and electronic elements, has made him one of the world’s most in-demand drummers. In addition to his unique playing style, he is known for experimenting with and creating unique drum sounds by placing cymbals on different drums, stacking cymbals on top of each other, and even placing cut out drum heads and small percussion instruments on top of his drums. He has performed with David Bowie, Brad Mehldau, Tigran Hamasyan, Phronesis, Gretchen Parlato, Avishai Cohen, and his two original groups, Beat Music and the Mark Guiliana Jazz Quartet. Recommended Albums: \u201cGently Disturbed\u201d – Avishai Cohen Trio, \u201cMehliana: Taming the Dragon\u201d – Brad Mehldau & Mark Guiliana<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Tomas Haake is the drummer for experimental metal band Meshuggah. He joined the band in 1990 before releasing their first studio album, and has been their drummer ever since. Haake is known for integrating polyrhythms and polymeters into grooves that have a standard 4\/4 pulse. His grooves often feel as though they\u2019re being played in odd time signatures. However, this is only due to his use of various rhythmic illusions. Some of Tomas Haake’s greatest influences include Neil Peart, Sean Reinert, Terry Bozzio, Vinnie Colaiuta, and Gary Husband. Recommended Albums: \u201cobZen\u201d – Meshuggah, \u201cThe Violent Sleep of Reason\u201d – Meshuggah<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Horacio \u201cEl Negro\u201d Hern\u00e1ndez is a Cuban drummer and percussionist best known for merging elements of jazz and rock music with Afro-Cuban music on the drum set. Hernandez had a career in Cuba as a session drummer up until his late 20s when he moved to the United States. Since the 1990s, he has performed with Michel Camilo, Dizzy Gillespie, McCoy Tyner, Steve Winwood, Santana, and Paquito D\u2019Rivera. Horacio Hern\u00e1ndez is known for incorporating clave patterns into his drum set playing with a left-foot pedal. He also demonstrates ambidexterity behind the drum set. Recommended Albums: \u201cLive at the Blue Note\u201d – Michel Camilo, \u201cThru My Eyes\u201d – Michel Camilo<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n99. Anika Nilles<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n98. Matt Cameron<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n97. Brian Blade<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n96. Matt Garstka<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n95. Will Calhoun<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n94. <\/strong>Tony Royster Jr.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n93. Joey Jordison<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
92. Josh Freese<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n91. <\/strong>Abe Laboriel Jr.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n90. Chris \u201cDaddy\u201d Dave<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n89. <\/strong>John \u201cJR\u201d Robinson<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n88. <\/strong>Max Weinberg<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n87. <\/strong>Terri Lyne Carrington<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n86. Larnell Lewis<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n85. Benny Greb<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n84. Marco Minnemann<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n83. Jonathan “Sugarfoot” Moffett<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n82. <\/strong>Colin \u201cCozy\u201d Powell<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n81. <\/strong>Gregg Bissonette<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n80. <\/strong>Virgil Donati<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n79. <\/strong>Todd Sucherman<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n78. <\/strong>Kenny Aronoff<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n77. <\/strong>Jimmy Chamberlin<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n76. <\/strong>Dave Lombardo<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n75. <\/strong>Mike Mangini<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n74. <\/strong>Chris Adler<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n73. <\/strong>Mark Guiliana<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n72. <\/strong>Tomas Haake<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n71. <\/strong>Horacio \u201cEl Negro\u201d Hern\u00e1ndez<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n