Drumming is an essential component of rock music, and there are countless songs that feature iconic drum parts that have become famous in their own right. From classic rock to modern hits, here are 15 rock songs that are famous because of the drumming.
“Wipeout” by The Surfaris
One of the most famous drum intros in rock history, “Wipeout” features a driving beat that has become instantly recognizable. The song is a surf rock classic and has been covered by countless bands over the years.
“In the Air Tonight” by Phil Collins
Phil Collins’ haunting ballad “In the Air Tonight” features a slow and powerful drum part that builds to a climactic finish. The song’s iconic drum fill has been sampled in countless hip-hop and pop songs over the years.
When the Levee Breaks” by Led Zeppelin
One of Led Zeppelin’s most famous songs, “When the Levee Breaks” features a massive drum sound that was achieved by recording the drums in a stairwell. The song’s driving beat and powerful fills have influenced countless rock and metal drummers over the years.
“Moby Dick” by Led Zeppelin
Another Led Zeppelin classic, “Moby Dick” features an extended drum solo by John Bonham that has become legendary among drummers. Bonham’s technical prowess and creative approach to drumming set a new standard for rock drumming.
“Tom Sawyer” by Rush
One of Rush’s most popular songs, “Tom Sawyer” features a complex and intricate drum part by Neil Peart. Peart’s use of odd time signatures and intricate fills has made him one of the most respected and influential drummers in rock history.
“YYZ” by Rush
Another Rush classic, “YYZ” features a driving beat and complex rhythms that showcase Peart’s incredible technical skills. The song’s instrumental structure puts the focus squarely on the drums, making it a fan favorite among drumming enthusiasts.
“Hot for Teacher” by Van Halen
“Hot for Teacher” is one of Van Halen’s most popular songs, thanks in large part to Alex Van Halen’s driving drum beat. The song’s intro features a blistering drum solo that sets the stage for the rest of the song.
“Back in Black” by AC/DC
“Back in Black” is one of AC/DC’s most iconic songs, thanks in large part to Phil Rudd’s simple but effective drum part. The song’s driving beat and powerful fills perfectly complement the song’s heavy guitar riffs and catchy melody.
“Run to the Hills” by Iron Maiden
“Run to the Hills” is one of Iron Maiden’s most famous songs, thanks in large part to Nicko McBrain’s powerful drumming. The song’s driving beat and intricate fills have made it a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live shows.
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” is one of the defining songs of the grunge era, and Dave Grohl’s driving drum part is a big reason why. The song’s simple but effective beat perfectly complements Kurt Cobain’s raw guitar riffs and angsty lyrics.
“Bulls on Parade” by Rage Against the Machine
“Bulls on Parade” features a driving drum part by Brad Wilk that perfectly complements the song’s aggressive guitar riffs and politically charged lyrics. The song’s powerful rhythm has made it a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live shows.
“Schism” by Tool
“Schism” is one of Tool’s most popular songs, thanks in large part to Danny Carey’s intricate drumming. The song features complex rhythms and intricate fills that showcase Carey’s technical prowess and creative approach to drumming.
“The Pretender” by Foo Fighters
“The Pretender” is one of Foo Fighters’ biggest hits, and Taylor Hawkins’ driving drum part is a big reason why. The song’s powerful beat and catchy fills perfectly complement Dave Grohl’s soaring vocals and guitar riffs.
“Radioactive” by Imagine Dragons
“Radioactive” is one of Imagine Dragons’ most popular songs, thanks in large part to Daniel Platzman’s driving drum beat. The song’s tribal rhythms and catchy hooks have made it a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live shows.
“Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
“Uptown Funk” is one of the biggest hits of the past decade, and it’s in no small part thanks to the driving drum beat by Bruno Mars’ drummer, Homer Steinweiss. The song’s funky rhythm and catchy hooks have made it a staple of dance floors and radio stations worldwide.
In conclusion, these 15 rock songs have become famous not only for their catchy melodies and memorable lyrics, but also for the iconic drumming that drives them. From the massive sound of Led Zeppelin’s “When the Levee Breaks” to the complex rhythms of Rush’s “YYZ,” these songs have set a new standard for rock drumming and inspired countless drummers to pick up the sticks and start playing.