5 Career-Defining Drum Solos In The ’80s

In Rock and Metal, drumming isn’t just about keeping time—it’s a demanding physical and mental feat that transforms the drummer into an athlete. The skill, control, precision, and strength required differ from other genres, like jazz. Here are five career-defining drum solos from the 1980s that showcase these legendary drummers’ incredible artistry and music style.

Toto – “Rosanna”
This song released in 1982 is essentially one long drum solo. Jeff Porcaro, the genius behind the kit, adds a unique groove to “Rosanna” by blending a “shuffle” on the hi-hat with ghost notes in triplets. The result is a complex and captivating rhythm that makes the song a true exercise in drumming mastery.

Phil Collins – “In The Air Tonight”
Phil Collins may be a divisive figure in music, but there’s no denying the impact of his solo debut single, “In The Air Tonight.” Beyond its haunting atmosphere, this 1981 track features a multi-karat drum solo that has become one of the most iconic in rock history. Collins’ powerful drumming is both a technical feat and an emotional crescendo.

Van Halen – “Hot For Teacher”
Alex Van Halen delivers one of the most iconic and technically challenging drum performances of the early 1980s in “Hot For Teacher.” His rapid-fire double bass drumming and complex patterns have made this solo a benchmark for aspiring drummers. Replicating it is akin to climbing Everest—an achievement few can claim.

Rush – “YYZ”
Neil Peart, often hailed as one of the greatest drummers of all time, leaves his mark on “YYZ.” The song debuted in 1981 and starts with a beat that mirrors the Morse code for YYZ, Toronto’s airport code. As the instruments come together to replicate this code, Peart adds layers of complexity with intricate fills and rhythms. As one reviewer aptly put it, “Rush doesn’t need to sing about music. That is taking the complication to the top.”

The Police – “Wrapped Around Your Finger”
Stewart Copeland’s work with The Police simply reflects his genius as a drummer. His fusion of jazz, metal, reggae, and even oriental rhythms creates both an elegant, daring, and unique style. “Wrapped Around Your Finger” showcases Copeland’s ability to blend these influences into a sound that defined the 1980s. His contribution to the band, and drumming in general, is nothing short of legendary.