“The top two rock and roll drummers, as chosen by John Bonham”

performing in a band. Next time I encountered him was with Led Zeppelin, back when they were still known as The New Yardbirds. The early Led Zeppelin was something truly remarkable because no one else was creating music like that.”Although Bonham is often associated with heavier rock genres, his musical foundation was built on classic rhythm and blues. Liberty DeVitto, the drummer for Billy Joel, once described Bonham as being “an R&B drummer in a heavy metal band” in an interview with Drum Magazine. He highlighted that Bonham possessed the powerful sound and attack reminiscent of Carmine Appice in songs like “D’yer Mak’er,” the R&B fills and feel of Roger Hawkins in tracks like “What Is And What Should Never Be,” and explored jazzy elements and swing, such as the Purdie-style shuffle in “Fool In The Rain.”Carmine Appice also reflected on Bonham’s eclectic musical tastes, emphasizing his appreciation for Motown, Atlantic, and Stax artists, as well as rock and roll legends like Little Richard and Bo Diddley. Bev Bevan, renowned for his work with ELO, noted that Bonham’s preferences seemed to lean towards American artists, suggesting that their shared musical tastes were primarily American-focused.American rhythm and blues had a profound impact on British musicians like Bonham, influencing a generation of rock stars and providing a rhythmic foundation that would later evolve into a unique and innovative style. The influence of musicians like Earl Palmer and Hal Blaine on Bonham is evident in his work, with Palmer’s drumming on Eddie Cochran’s “Somethin’ Else” inspiring Bonham’s iconic intro to Led Zeppelin’s “Rock And Roll.”Despite his admiration for American artists, Bonham also held British drummer Ginger Baker in high regard. Baker, in his memoir, recounted a conversation where Bonham boldly proclaimed that there were only two British drummers in rock ‘n’ roll – himself and Ginger Baker. This remark left Baker both amused and impressed, showcasing the mutual respect between the two iconic drummers.The diverse range of musical influences cited by Bonham’s peers underscores the depth of his musical education and the unique blend of styles that he incorporated into his drumming. From American rhythm and blues to British rock innovators, Bonham drew inspiration from a wide array of sources, shaping a style that would have a lasting impact on generations of drummers. Although he may no longer be with us, John Bonham’s legacy lives on through his unparalleled contributions to the world of rock drumming, solidifying his status as one of the most important percussionists in the history of rock music.