10 Songs That Cemented Ginger Baker’s Legendary Reputation
Ginger Baker made his mark on the London music scene in the 1960s, starting in jazz clubs. However, his powerful drumming style didn’t quite fit the subtlety of jazz, leading him to explore blues and rock. This experimentation brought him together with Jack Bruce and Eric Clapton, and in 1966, they formed the legendary band Cream. Throughout his career, Baker also played with bands like Blind Faith and Hawkwind, and collaborated with Nigerian musician Fela Kuti.
Despite his often controversial behavior and clashes with bandmates, Baker’s drumming talent was undeniable. Here are 10 songs that showcase his remarkable skills.
Cream – Toad
“Toad,” the final track on Cream’s debut album, set a new standard for rock drum solos. Baker’s powerful drumming and extended solos in “Toad” became an inspiration for generations of drummers. His bandmate Jack Bruce once quipped that he enjoyed Baker’s long solos because they gave him time to smoke.
Cream – Sunshine of Your Love
“Sunshine of Your Love,” Cream’s signature song, is often cited as a precursor to heavy metal. However, Baker’s drumming here was not about hard-hitting beats. Instead, he opted for a minimalistic, laid-back rhythm, which was a groundbreaking approach for its time.
Ginger Baker’s Air Force – Aiko Biaye
After Cream and Blind Faith, Baker formed his own band, Ginger Baker’s Air Force, where he explored jazz and African rhythms. “Aiko Biaye” is a brilliant piece that showcases Baker’s drumming talents, co-written with fellow drummer Remi Kabaka. The track blends avant-garde music with African influences, highlighting Baker’s versatility.
Blind Faith – Do What You Like
In Blind Faith, Baker and Clapton continued their innovative spirit. “Do What You Like” features a stunning drum solo by Baker, demonstrating his ability to let the music guide him. The solo towards the end of the song is a testament to his improvisational skills.
Baker Gurvitz Army – Love Is
Baker joined forces with Adrian and Paul Gurvitz to form Baker Gurvitz Army, a band known for its intense and dramatic sound. “Love Is” perfectly encapsulates the group’s unique blend of styles, with Baker’s drumming providing the backbone of the track. His intensity and skill on the drums shine through in this powerful performance.
Blind Faith – Had to Cry Today
“Had to Cry Today” by Blind Faith is a complex piece that combines progressive blues with abrupt mood changes. The song features virtuosic performances from Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood, but it’s Baker’s drumming that ties it all together. His ability to navigate the song’s shifting dynamics is nothing short of masterful.
Cream – Spoonful
In Cream’s hard-hitting take on Willie Dixon’s “Spoonful,” Baker unleashed his raw power. His drumming added a level of complexity to the song, from the crashing cymbals to the precise fills. Baker’s contribution helped push “Spoonful” into a new era of rock music.
Cream – Strange Brew
“Strange Brew” was a Top 20 hit in the UK, notable for Eric Clapton’s vocals. While the song starts with a standard boogaloo beat, Baker’s drumming evolves as the track progresses. His cool variations and booming runs during Clapton’s solo add a unique flair, all while maintaining an impeccable sense of swing.
Cream – White Room
In “White Room,” Baker’s drumming is the glue that holds the song’s many musical elements together. He guides the transition from the eerie 5/4 intro to the main 4/4 beat, matching the intensity.
Hawkind – Space Chase
After losing their original singer, Robert Calvert, Hawkwind shifted towards more instrumental tracks, with Ginger Baker’s drumming adding a new dimension. “Space Chase” showcases Baker’s fascination with tribal, tom-heavy rhythms, reflecting his jazz influences. Despite the promising collaboration, “Levitation” was the only studio album Baker recorded with Hawkwind.
