Phil Collins: From Jazz to Rock - The Influence of John Bonham on His Drumming Style
Phil Collins was initially drawn to jazz drummers when he started his drumming career, influenced by the unique style of percussionists in the jazz genre. Drummers like Buddy Rich, Chester Thompson, and Charlie Watts straddled the line between jazz and rock, which inspired Collins to explore both genres. While jazz appealed to him, Collins leaned more towards pop music and was not a fan of drum solos, unlike many jazz drummers of the time.
Ringo Starr, known for his time with The Beatles, avoided drum solos, which resonated with Collins and his preference for pop music. However, Collins eventually developed an appreciation for drum solos after witnessing John Bonham's performance. Bonham, known for his time with Led Zeppelin, showcased a powerful and unique drumming style that captivated Collins and other drummers.
Bonham's swing style, slightly behind the beat, and his use of no-stick techniques left a lasting impression on Collins. The raw energy and tenacity Bonham displayed behind the drum kit inspired Collins to incorporate similar elements into his own drumming style. Collins admired Bonham's bass drum technique and began to follow his drumming closely, learning from his innovative approach to rock and roll drumming.
Collins' exposure to Bonham's drumming style influenced his drumming in songs like 'Dance on a Volcano', where he showcased power and precision reminiscent of Bonham's drumming. Bonham's impact on rock and roll drumming opened up new possibilities for drummers like Collins, who integrated elements of Bonham's style into his own playing. The lessons learned from Bonham's drumming style shaped Collins' approach to percussion and contributed to his evolution as a drummer in the rock genre.