12 of the Best Metal Drummers of All Time

When we talk about the legends of metal music, we often think about the shredding guitarists and powerful vocalists who command the stage. But behind these frontmen (and women), there’s a force that drives the music forward with thunderous beats and jaw-dropping speed – the drummers. Metal wouldn’t be the same without these masters of rhythm who not only keep the time but elevate the music to new heights with their technical skills and creative genius.
Let’s dive into the world of metal music’s most legendary drummers, exploring their contributions, signature styles, and the equipment that helps them create their magic.
1. John Bonham
Famously known as “Bonzo,” John was the powerhouse behind Led Zeppelin. Bonham’s drumming was characterised by his incredible speed, power, and his ability to infuse a sense of groove that few could match. He famously used Ludwig drums, which became his signature sound throughout his career. Bonham worked exclusively with Led Zeppelin, contributing to their status as rock legends. His performances in songs like “Moby Dick” and “When the Levee Breaks” showcase his innovative techniques, such as the use of triplets and his “bucket-of-fish” lick. Bonham’s influence is vast, inspiring countless drummers across genres. He worked closely with brands like Ludwig, creating a legacy that endures well beyond his tragic passing in 1980.
2. Neil Peart
Neil Peart, the rhythmic force behind Canadian prog-rock band Rush, holds a legendary status in the world of drumming. Known for his intricate compositions and technical proficiency, Peart used a variety of drum brands throughout his career, including Slingerland, Tama, Ludwig, and Drum Workshop. His work with Rush is legendary, contributing to classics like “Tom Sawyer” and “YYZ.” Peart was not just a drummer but also the band’s primary lyricist, showcasing his deep intellectual and emotional depth. His performances were a spectacle of precision and creativity, earning him a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Peart’s influence extended beyond Rush, inspiring drummers worldwide with his philosophical approach to music and life.
3. Mike Portnoy
Mike Portnoy, co-founder of the progressive metal band Dream Theater, is celebrated for his technical mastery and dynamic playing style. Portnoy has played with a wide array of bands, including Avenged Sevenfold and The Winery Dogs, showcasing his versatility. He is known for using a variety of drum kits and equipment, with notable endorsements from brands like Tama and Sabian. Portnoy’s legendary performances include Dream Theater’s “Metropolis Pt. 2: Scenes from a Memory,” where his complex rhythms and time signatures are on full display. His influence on the world of drumming is profound, with numerous awards and accolades to his name.
4. Dave Lombardo
Dave Lombardo, often hailed as the godfather of double bass drumming, made his mark with the thrash metal band Slayer. Lombardo’s aggressive and speedy style redefined metal drumming, earning him a spot among the greats. He uses TAMA drums, which complement his ferocious playing technique. Lombardo’s work on Slayer’s “Reign in Blood” album is monumental, setting new standards for metal drumming. Beyond Slayer, he has contributed to various projects, showcasing his adaptability and relentless energy.
5. Lars Ulrich
Lars Ulrich, the Danish powerhouse behind Metallica, has been a defining figure in thrash metal since the early ’80s. Ulrich’s drumming is known for its raw power and solid grooves, providing the perfect foundation for Metallica’s heavy riffs. He uses Tama Starclassic drums and has been instrumental in Metallica’s rise to global fame. Ulrich’s performances on albums like “Master of Puppets” and “Metallica” (The Black Album) are celebrated for their intensity and precision. Despite mixed opinions on his technical prowess, Ulrich’s impact on metal and his role in one of the genre’s most influential bands cannot be overstated.
6. Joey Jordison
Joey Jordison, best known for his work with Slipknot, brought a new level of intensity and technical skill to nu-metal. Jordison’s rapid-fire double bass and complex fills were a cornerstone of Slipknot’s sound, propelling them to international fame. He used Pearl drums and was known for his energetic and visually captivating performances. Jordison’s work on albums like “Iowa” showcased his exceptional talent and creativity. Despite his untimely death in 2021, Jordison’s legacy as a pioneering metal drummer lives on, inspiring a new generation of musicians.
7. Danny Carey
Danny Carey is the powerhouse behind the progressive metal band Tool. Carey’s drumming is known for its complexity, incorporating elements like odd time signatures, polyrhythms, and polymeters. His signature drumming equipment includes a custom Sonor drum kit with beech shells and Makassar ebony veneers, Paiste cymbals, Evans drumheads, and his own model of Vic Firth drumsticks.
Carey has worked with bands such as Green Jellÿ and Volto!, and his legendary performances include the intricate rhythms of “Sober” and the dynamic fills in “Schism.” He’s also collaborated with brands like Sonor, Paiste, and Roland, making him a true icon in the drumming world.
8. Bill Ward
Next up is Bill Ward, the original drummer for the heavy metal pioneers Black Sabbath. Ward’s powerful and dynamic playing style helped to define the sound of heavy metal. He used a variety of Slingerland and Ludwig drums, along with Sabian cymbals and Remo drumheads. Ward’s work with Black Sabbath, including his performance on tracks like “War Pigs,” showcases his ability to blend hard rock power with jazz-influenced finesse.
His association with brands like Ludwig and Sabian cymbals speaks to his influence in the drumming community.
9. Nicko McBrain
Nicko McBrain, the engine behind Iron Maiden’s galloping rhythms, is another legend on our list. Known for his precise timing and energetic performances, McBrain’s drum setup includes Premier drums and Paiste cymbals. He’s been with Iron Maiden since 1982, contributing to classic albums like “The Number of the Beast” and “Powerslave.” McBrain’s legendary status is cemented by performances that showcase his technical skill and musicality, making him a favourite among metal fans worldwide.
10. Chris Adler
Chris Adler, formerly of Lamb of God and Megadeth, is renowned for his technical proficiency and innovative drumming style. Adler’s equipment of choice includes Mapex drums, Meinl cymbals, and Evans drumheads. His work with Lamb of God, particularly on tracks like “Redneck” and “Laid to Rest,” displays his aggressive yet intricate playing style. Adler’s contributions to the metal genre extend beyond his drumming; he’s also respected for his work in developing new drumming techniques and equipment.
11. Gene Hoglan
Gene Hoglan, also known as “The Atomic Clock,” is celebrated for his incredible speed and precision. Hoglan has played with bands such as Death, Strapping Young Lad, and Testament.
His drumming arsenal features Pearl drums and Sabian cymbals. Hoglan’s performances, especially on tracks like Death’s “The Philosopher,” highlight his technical prowess and creativity. His influence on the metal genre is profound, inspiring countless drummers with his mastery of speed and rhythm
12. George Kollias
Last but certainly not least is George Kollias, the blistering force behind Nile’s brutal soundscapes. Kollias is known for his astonishing speed and endurance, utilising Tama drums and Sabian cymbals to achieve his signature sound. His work with Nile, particularly on songs like “Sacrifice Unto Sebek,” showcases his ability to navigate complex rhythms with ease. Kollias has also contributed to the drumming community through instructional materials and clinics, sharing his techniques with aspiring drummers.
cool list but how do you leave off Keith Moon if you have Neil Peart, who I also love.
Come on now 5. Lars Ulrich is below average at best not anywhere close to top 10