Fortunate to see the late great Buddy Rich in Ohio (84/85) before he passed. He was truly a master and made a huge impression.
Saw Elvin Jones twice at Jazz Alley in Seattle in 2003. Impressive physical and spiritual presence. Only a few drummers actually create a new vocabulary on the instrument, Elvin was one for sure! His work with Coltrane is revolutionary and then he went on to be a bandleader, mentor and composer as well.
Steve Gadd, a true example of a versatile drummer. Steve seems to know how to navigate the most complex music or the seemingly simple with ease. Gadd's a kind, encouraging presence, who blended his marching drumming with new ideas to create his own voice while influencing countless musicians.
The late great Tony Williams who burst onto the scene at 17, in 1963 with Miles Davis. Innovator, composer, bandleader and mercurial to say the least.
Hal Blaine! The hit maker strikes again! Turned out Hal was ALL of my top 10+ favorite drummers in my youth as he was on THE hits with Sinatra, Elvis, Ronettes, Herb Albert & Tijuana Brass, Beach Boys, Mama's & Papa's, Simon & Garfunkel, The Byrds, Cher, The Carpenters, Neil Diamond, John Denver, Captain & Tennille to name just a few. Check out The Wrecking Crew documentary.