Ask any drummer for their top 5 favorite drummers, and Neil Peart’s name will pop up on a larger percentage of those lists for a variety of reasons. Peart was a “drummer’s drummer,” so technically spectacular that he was nicknamed “The Professor” for his pure mastery of the craft.
Peart elevated expectations for proficiency of the drums and soloing, often crediting his biggest influences Gene Krupa and Buddy Rich for his inspiration and sheer drive to take his ability to the very top. While most rock drummers refrained from jazz and opted for louder and heavier beats, Peart trained himself in traditional jazz. However, he was also influenced by the incomparable Keith Moon of the Who, and John Bonham of Led Zeppelin. His drumming was renowned for its technical proficiency and his live performances for their exacting nature and stamina. Peart reflected on his influences and inspirations in Modern Drummer: “It will be understood, I hope, that the idea of being inspired by other...
