A new countdown begins today... THE ALL-TIME GREATEST DRUMMERS.

Today: #60-56. Continues: tomorrow.

Caffè Lattè presents the

ALL-TIME

🥁

               

 GREATEST DRUMMERS

It’s hard to imagine any song with a driving beat without a drum kit powering the overall sound. This list pays tribute to the drummers whose work has had the greatest impact and influence on rock and pop music.

/60\

DON HENLEY

As drummer for the American group Eagles and as a soloist, Don Henley has helped shape the sound of American rock. He is one of the few lead vocalists that sing behind a drum kit. As a founding member of Eagles, he has played on major hits such as “Heartache Tonight”, “The Long Run” and “Hotel California”.

/59\

J.R. ROBINSON

He has played on notable hits such as “We Are The World” (for USA For Africa), Lionel Richie’s “All Night Long (All Night), The Pointer Sisters’ “I’m So Excited” and for artists as varied as Rufus, Barbra Streisand, Quincy Jones and Steve Winwood. It’s J.R. Robinson on the drums that kicks off the intro on Michael Jackson’s #1 hit “Rock With You”.  

/58\

TOMMY LEE

As drummer for Motley Crue, Tommy Lee employed gimmicks on stage, such as having his kit revolve or rise above the audience while he continued to play. “Dr. Feelgood” offers a clear example of the energy he injected into the band live and on recordings.

 

/57\

KAREN CARPENTER

Drummers are rarely lead singers and fewer still are female. Karen Carpenter’s silky vocals on the duo’s singles ended up overshadowing her skill as a drummer, but there’s no doubt that she made it cool for women to become drummers. She not only proved it could be done, but that it could be lucrative. “All Of My Life” gives a reminder of her influence.

/56\

PETE THOMAS

As drummer for Elvis Costello’s band The Attractions, Pete Thomas’ talent is unmistakeable. He positively forms the foundation of staples such as “Pump It Up” and “(I Don’t Want To Go To) Chelsea”.