An Analysis of John Bonham’s Drumming Skills and Rank as a Rock Drummer
When discussing rock drumming skills, one name always stands above the rest: John Bonham. The Led Zeppelin drummer has earned a remarkable reputation over the years, with an overwhelmingly positive reception to his talents.
The Untouchable Reputation of John Bonham
John Bonham is widely regarded as one of the greatest rock drummers of all time. He holds a near-untouchable reputation in the music industry, often ranked among the best in the genre. His impact on rock drumming is so profound that his ranking is rarely lower than the top three.
The Case for John Bonham’s Excellence
There are several reasons why John Bonham is considered one of the best:
1. Technical Proficiency and Speed
James Jamerson, the great Motown bassist, once said that Bonham had a “less rhythmic feel, but double the speed.” This speaks to Bonham’s unparalleled technical skill and the precision with which he could play at high speeds. His drumming techniques, such as his flam-taps and double bass drumming, set him apart from his contemporaries.
2. Innovative Techniques
Bonham was not only technically proficient but also innovative in his approach to drumming. He is often credited with contributing to the development of deep pocket drumming, a style that prioritizes a strong, deep bass drum sound. This technique, which has influenced countless drummers since, is a key reason for his enduring legacy.
3. Emotional Connection
While technical skill is essential in drumming, it’s the emotional connection to the music that truly sets great drummers apart. Bonham’s drumming was deeply rooted in the soul of Led Zeppelin’s music. His playing was not just about intense speed and virtuosity; it was about conveying emotion and holding the rhythm together.
Ranking and Comparisons
When evaluating drummers in the rock genre, John Bonham’s ranking is consistently high. In surveys and discussions about the best rock drummers, he is often placed at the top. Some notable comparisons include:
4. Buddy Rich
Buddy Rich, the legendary jazz drummer, once said about Bonham: "That guy, he’s got all the facts and he has all the form, but he has something particularly in the way of time and spirit," which many interpret as a high compliment in terms of his playing.
5. Keith Moon
Keith Moon, the drummer of The Who, had his own high opinion: “The way Bonham plays drums… Well, Stewart Copeland used to watch him all the time because he didn’t know how to play a double kick on a drum machine. He would call him to update him on the best drumming of the moment, just as a joke.”
6. Neil Peart
Neil Peart, the drummer of Rush, said: “We can talk about Bernaldo, Keith, Neil, Mitch, and Buddy Rich, but nobody's playing on songs like John Bonham is playing on Led Zeppelin's songs.” This sentiment highlights Bonham’s unique contribution to rock music.
Conclusion
In the grand tapestry of rock music, John Bonham stands out as a formidable figure. Whether it’s his technical proficiency, innovative techniques, or his emotional connection to the music, there’s a strong case for him being the best among rock drummers. The admiration for his work endures, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of drummers.
Final Note
Why is there no better drummer mentioned than John Bonham in discussions of rock drumming? The reasons are multifaceted, encompassing not only his astonishing skill but also his cultural impact and the unique style that defines his playing. Bonham was more than just a drummer; he was an integral part of the evolving sound of rock music.