This is my first time on the site and I have read every comment presented on this board, and I fully respect every list created. I just want to present a different perspective and possibly toss out some names that are out there, but maybe aren't as recognized as others. So far Jason, DDepp, Melly, Davon and others have made good comments, but if I could just remind us it is our responsibility as "minstrels" and not musicians to provide a positive influence and and an encouraging word to those that may not know the difference.
My All Time Top 10
1.) Buddy Rich (Buddy Rich Band)
2.) Gene Krupa (Gene Krupa Trio)
3.) Vinny Colaiuta (Karizma)
4.) Dave Weckl (Dave Weckl Band, Chick Corea, etc.)
5.) Art Blakey (The Jazz Messengers)
6.) Elvin Jones (John Coltrane)
7.) "Philly" Joe Jones (Miles Davis)
8.) Tony Williams (Miles Davis)
9.) Tommy Lee (Motley Crue)
10.) James "Jimmy" Cobb (Miles Davis)
My Top Ten Favorites (National):
1.) Khari Parker (Raphael Saddiq)
2.) Teddy Campbell (Ricky Minor)
3.) Gerald Heyward (Beyonce)
4.) Aaron Spears (Usher)
5.) ?uestlove (The Roots)
6.) George "Spanky" McCurdy (Tye Tribbett & G.A.)
7.) Jeff "Tain" Watts (Branford Marsalis)
8.) Herlin Riley (Wynton Marsalis & Lincoln Center)
9.) Calvin Rodgers (Urban Knights)
10.) Dennis Chambers (Santana)
My Top Ten Favorites (Local):
1.) Calvin Rodgers (Sweet Holy Spirit, Fred Hammond)
2.) Rexsell Hardy Jr. (God's House of All Nations, Mary J. Blige)
3.) Tavarius "Varro" Johnson (Smokie Norful, Kenny Lewis)
4.) Mike Weathersthingy (Lonnie Hunter and the Voices of St. Mark)
5.) Jeral "Scooter" Gray, Jr. (New Direction, Joshua's Troop)
6.) Quinjuan Anderson (Yolanda Adams, Praise II Choir)
7.) DaJuan Watson (Young Saints, Greater First Baptist Church)
8.) Jeremy Haynes (Karen Clark-Sheared, Marvin Sapp)
9.) Darvonte "Turbo" Murray (Curie H.S. c/o 2003)**Look & Listen for him**
10.) Jerrel Johnson (Teens of Praise, BTV Ministries)**Look & Listen for him**