Greatest Rock Drummers

+1 Stewart Copeland often plays on top or ahead of the beat and has a tendency to push the tempo. He gives an urgency and energy to his playing that few drummers convey. Good skill at the one drop as well as jazz (Murder by Numbers)!

The Police Certifiable concert is one of the most enjoyable demonstrations of percussion - no silly drum solo - just great playing that compliments and elevates the songs to whole other level. As enjoyable as Neil Peart on Xanadu live on the Exit Stage Left DVD!

Sting is super talented but rather BORING without Stewart.

Stewart was the true creative somewhat crazy talent behind The Police and I don’t think Sting’s great song writing would have been recognized if not for Stewart’s inventive playing.

Charlie Watts of The Rolling Stones,
and the late Tom Ardolino of NRBQ

Master Neil at work.....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SEuOoMprDqg

I have always liked Stan Lynch of Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers.

I've met Bernard Purdie and he is the nicest unassuming guy.   Had dinner with him with another drummer I work with, Geoff Daking from the Blues Magoos (Geoff makes pro audio gear).  I am surprised no one has mentioned Jeff Porcaro- did I miss it?  He made famous one of Purdies unique beats, the "purdie shuffle" or "half time shuffle groove".  Jeff used it on Toto's "Roseanna".