Ahhh…drum fills. When it comes to classic rock, this element can be so many things. It can be simple or complex. It can be quick or lengthy.
One thing, however, is certain: We all have air drummed to a drum fill more times than any of us care to admit. Of those times, there’s a good chance that one time was to Phil Collins’ “In The Air Tonight” from his debut album Face Value, which was released on February 13, 1981.
In honor of the album’s anniversary, it seems only appropriate to take a look at some of the great drum fills in classic rock. Here are seven stellar examples.
Phil Collins – “In The Air Tonight”
Drum fill at 3:16.
Billy Joel – “Only The Good Die Young”
Drum fill at 0:13.
Ram Jam – “Black Betty”
Drum fill at 1:32.
David Bowie – “Young Americans”
Starts at the song’s beginning.
Led Zeppelin – “Whole Lotta Love”
Leave it to John Bonham to have three great drum fills in one song. First takes place at 3:02, while the second is at 4:35 and the third at 4:56.
The Who – “Won’t Get Fooled Again”
This epic drum fill begins at 7:31 and is punctuated with one of the greatest screams in recorded history.
Rush – “Tom Sawyer”
No drumming list is complete without some Neil Peart. Drum fill starts at 2:35.