Honourable mention to Ronnie Vannucci JR of the Killers. First time I saw them live, couldn't take my eyes off him. Expended more energy during the set than some front people do during their shows.
Eric Delaney. Incredible solo artist and Big band. Had the privilege to see him many times. Josh Freese,.Foo fighters Karen Carpenter. Not only the Greatest voice of all time. Imho. But a great drummer And afore you all chuckle. In 1975, she was voted the best rock drummer in a poll of Playboy readers, beating Led Zeppelin's John Bonham. Maybe a bit of a sympathy vote at the time of her diagnosis. but still an absolute quality drummer. But tbh where do you start. Fantastic drummers without being flippant are countless. My favourite instrument btw. Wish I'd taken it up when young. But my left hand was/is only good for one thing. (Stop it Stephen) Holding a fork.
Int this yet another impossible question? What does 'best drummer' mean? Drumming technique? Best timekeeping? Innovative drum patterns? Ability to musically contribute to a song rather than detract from it or overpower it? Based on the above, and possibly other factors, I have no idea.
Terry Williams, He was a very sought after session drummer in the 70s and 80s, just watch his phenomenal performance with Dire Straits on Alchemy live. Absolutely superb.
Another great session drummer is Simon Phillips who has played with a wide range of artists. I first became aware of him on Michael Schenker's first solo album - brilliant. Extract below from wiki. Phillips worked as a session drummer for Brian Eno's 801, Jeff Beck, Gary Moore, Michael Schenker, Bernie Marsden, Jon Lord, Nik Kershaw, Mike Oldfield, Judas Priest, Mike Rutherford, Tears for Fears, 10cc, the Chemical Brothers, Pete Townshend, and the Who. He was the drummer for the Who during the band's American reunion tour in 1989. He became the drummer for Toto in 1992 after the death of Jeff Porcaro.
Can't let this thread pass by without mention of Matt Helders. Stunning stuff in Arctics early days and now a very versatile thumper with a sense for serving the song. Also, huge big seconds for Keith Moon and especially Tony Allen. A genuine pioneer.