The Top 5 Busiest Drummers In The Music Business

By Bobby Webb


Have you ever asked yourself when listening to your favorite record or a live performance of an artist and asked yourself "I wonder who that drummer is?". Well if you've listened to the radio or any hit record for the last 30 or so years, you've probably heard one of if not all of these drummers. Unless your a drummer or musician yourself, these guys may not be household names, but they are the first call drummers for the world's top artists. They may be behind the scenes of the music business, but their illustrious careers have proven them to be hit makers and the backbone of popular music; even if they aren't household names.

1.Jim Keltner. Not many people (actually none), can say they've played drums on projects with 3 out of the 4 Beatles. Though this has been the tip of the iceberg on Jim's career, he's also played with artists such as Bob Dylan to Neil Young to Elton John to the Rolling Stones as well. His style which is a meld of r&b and rock provides a perfect compliment and has led to backing so many great singer songwriters, as well as rock artists on many hit albums and classic tours.

2. Matt Chamberlain. Matt's career started in the late 80s and took off in the 90's starting with Edie Brickell and the New Bohemians, then joining Pearl Jam, then as the drummer for the Saturday Night Live band. He embodies great rock and alternative rock drumming, though he also started playing with electronic samples as well as the kit early on. His amazing playing and sense for music has led him to play with many huge artists including: Tori Amos, Sara Barielles, Fiona Apple, and even Kanye, and guitarist Bill Frisell where they recorded a duo album.

3. Keith Carlock. Keith's past 10 years have included touring with Steely Dan, John Mayer, Sting, and James Taylor... Very impressive, and rightly so. Keith is a modern master with a huge sound that he not only adds to these artists but also to his own projects. He combines and is right at home in rock, fusion, R&B and has skills for days. Keith is a chameleon, and a consummate pro.

4. John "JR" Robinson. John Robinson is actually the most recorded drummer in history. You've definitely heard his playing if you've turned on the radio in the past 10 years. In the LA studio scene he has been the first call drummer, and can be heard on countless hits and in concert with the highest grossing classic artists. From his time in Rufus and Chaka Kahn, to working with Quincy Jones as his first call drummer, to being Barbara Streisand's drummer; his versatility and professionalism are unmatched.

5. Dennis Chambers Dennis truly is a groove master with a massive sound. He has unparalleled technique, but always makes the music feel good. At 18 he joined Parliament Funkadelic in lieu of college. Not bad schooling, and now a days you can watch him perform on Santana's tours. Between his early days and now, he has played countless memorable records such as Stevie Wonder's "Songs In The Key Of Life". He has also made a huge mark on the jazz/fusion world, like in guitar great John Scofield's group. Dennis is a "drummer's drummer" and brings a huge presence to any project he plays on.

Now do yourself a favor and check these guys out!




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