{"id":45629,"date":"2025-05-27T09:00:04","date_gmt":"2025-05-27T08:00:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/?p=45629"},"modified":"2025-06-02T12:58:59","modified_gmt":"2025-06-02T11:58:59","slug":"black-sabbath-drummers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/black-sabbath-drummers\/","title":{"rendered":"The History of Black Sabbath Drummers &#8211; From Bill Ward to Tommy Clufetos"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_85 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/black-sabbath-drummers\/#In_a_hurry\" >In a hurry?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/black-sabbath-drummers\/#Black_Sabbath_drummers\" >Black Sabbath drummers\u00a0<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/black-sabbath-drummers\/#Bill_Ward_%E2%80%93_Black_Sabbaths_first_drummer\" >Bill Ward \u2013 Black Sabbath\u2019s first drummer\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/black-sabbath-drummers\/#Vinny_Appice\" >Vinny Appice\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/black-sabbath-drummers\/#Bev_Bevan\" >Bev Bevan<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/black-sabbath-drummers\/#Eric_Singer\" >Eric Singer\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/black-sabbath-drummers\/#Terry_Chimes\" >Terry Chimes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/black-sabbath-drummers\/#Cozy_Powell\" >Cozy Powell<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/black-sabbath-drummers\/#Mike_Bordin\" >Mike Bordin\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/black-sabbath-drummers\/#Brad_Wilk\" >Brad Wilk\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/black-sabbath-drummers\/#Tommy_Clufetos\" >Tommy Clufetos<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/black-sabbath-drummers\/#FAQs\" >FAQs\u00a0<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/black-sabbath-drummers\/#How_many_drummers_did_Black_Sabbath_have\" >How many drummers did Black Sabbath have?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/black-sabbath-drummers\/#Who_is_the_new_drummer_for_Black_Sabbath\" >Who is the new drummer for Black Sabbath?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/black-sabbath-drummers\/#Is_Bill_Ward_a_good_drummer\" >Is Bill Ward a good drummer?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/black-sabbath-drummers\/#Final_thoughts\" >Final thoughts\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p>[et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;|||&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; custom_padding__hover=&#8221;|||&#8221;][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;Intro&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #999999;\">Featured image: Creative Commons License by <a title=\"User:MusikAnimal\" href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Black_Sabbath_Barclays_Center_March_2014.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">MusikAnimal<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">As one of the bands that helped introduce heavy metal music to the world, Black Sabbath\u2019s sound was very much shaped by their drummers. Every <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Black Sabbath drummer<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> adds a new layer to the story. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">So, how extensive is this history? Well, it covers nine drummers, to say the least. As one of the greatest, most influential, and most iconic bands of all time, there&#8217;s a lot to unpack. Let&#8217;s have a look at who has sat behind the kit over the years&#8230;<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2024\/07\/Secondhand-drums.jpg&#8221; alt=&#8221;Secondhand drums&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Secondhand-drums&#8221; url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/secondhand\/drums?utm_source=blog&#038;utm_medium=banner&#038;utm_campaign=secondhand_drums&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;Secondhand Drums Banner&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_module=&#8221;41660&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;In a hurry?&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;#f08000&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_a_hurry\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">In a hurry?<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">At a glance, here&#8217;s the long line of Black Sabbath&#8217;s drummers:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Bill Ward\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Vinny Appice\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Bev Bevan\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Eric Singer\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Terry Chimes\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Cozy Powell\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Mike Bordin\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Brad Wilk\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Tommy Clufetos\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/drum-kits.html&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text=&#8221;SHOP DRUMS&#8221; button_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;NEW CTA Button&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_button=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text_size=&#8221;14px&#8221; button_text_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; button_bg_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_border_width=&#8221;0px&#8221; button_border_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_font=&#8221;Arial|700|||||||&#8221; button_icon=&#8221;&#x35;||divi||400&#8243; button_icon_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;||||false|false&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;10px|30px||30px|false|false&#8221; box_shadow_style=&#8221;preset6&#8243; box_shadow_blur=&#8221;2px&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_button][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;Black Sabbath drummers &#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;#f08000&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Black_Sabbath_drummers\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Black Sabbath drummers<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bill_Ward_%E2%80%93_Black_Sabbaths_first_drummer\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Bill Ward \u2013 Black Sabbath\u2019s first drummer\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Years with Black Sabbath: 1968-1980, 1983-1984, 1994, 1997-2006 and 2017<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Bill Ward was there from the very beginning, co-founding Black Sabbath in 1968 and laying down the foundations of their early sound. His drumming on albums like <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Paranoid<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> and <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Master of Reality<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> helped shape what heavy metal would become, mixing bluesy grooves with a jazzy swing that you don\u2019t often hear in the genre. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Just listen to &#8220;<\/span>War Pigs&#8221;<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> &#8211; the way he controls the dynamics and plays with timing really set Sabbath apart from other bands at the time.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Ward\u2019s background in big band and jazz drumming &#8211; shaped by influences like Gene Krupa and Buddy Rich &#8211; gave him a unique style.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Over the years, he played on 11 of the band\u2019s studio albums. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">But despite his huge influence, ongoing health problems and struggles with addiction meant he stepped away from the band multiple times between 1980 and 2006. In the end, he wasn\u2019t part of their final reunion concert in 2017.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Ward started with Ludwig and Slingerland drum kits, along with Zildjian cymbals. If you want to achieve a similar sound to the early Sabbath era, check out the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Ludwig-Continental-22-4pc-Shell-Pack-Natural-Maple\/5L1R\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Ludwig Continental 22&#8221; 4pc Shell Pack<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. You can pair this with the iconic <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Ludwig-14-x-65-Black-Beauty-Snare-Drum-Imperial-Lugs\/QLA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Ludwig Black Beauty snare drum<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">to achieve that classic metal tone. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">He also used <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Ludwig-Speed-King-Pedal\/3C04\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Speedking pedals<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> in those early days \u2013 a firm favourite for many drummers in the &#8217;70s. Later in his career, he switched to Tama drums and Sabian cymbals.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/6BPIL8oNazk?si=wsOs9zDoibesAfBP\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Vinny_Appice\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Vinny Appice\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Years with Black Sabbath: 1980 &#8211; 1982. He then played on and off with the band between 1991 &#8211; 1992 and 1998 &#8211; 1999. <\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Vinny Appice joined Black Sabbath in 1980 during the <em>Heaven and Hell<\/em> tour, stepping in after Bill Ward\u2019s sudden departure. His first gig at Aloha Stadium in Hawaii was far from ideal &#8211; with crib notes ruined by the rain and last-minute gear &#8211; but he still pulled it off.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">He brought a heavier, more direct drumming style that helped shape albums like<em> Mob Rules<\/em> (1981), <em>Live Evil<\/em> (1982), and <em>Dehumanizer<\/em> (1992), all featuring Ronnie James Dio on vocals. His playing locked in tightly with Tony Iommi\u2019s riffs, adding precision to Sabbath\u2019s sound.<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">In fact, there&#8217;s a stark <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">contrast between Appice&#8217;s aggressive, powerful sound and Ward&#8217;s looser, jazzier feel.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Appice was inducted into the Hall of Heavy Metal History in 2017, recognised for a career built on power, consistency, and knowing exactly how to elevate the music, even on short notice.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/7IDXXTsah6g?si=qnFZxoA3qFBchjNT\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bev_Bevan\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Bev Bevan<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Years with Black Sabbath: 1982 &#8211; 1983 and 1987<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Bev Bevan joined Black Sabbath for the <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Born Again<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> tour in 1983, then returned in 1987 to record percussion on <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The Eternal Idol<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. Best known for his work with Electric Light Orchestra, Bevan brought a heavier, more direct style.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">His drumming on the <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Born Again<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> tour was powerful and, to be honest, straight-up no-nonsense, giving Sabbath\u2019s live sound a raw, thumping edge. He also appeared in the videos for &#8220;<\/span>Trashed&#8221; and &#8220;Zero the Hero&#8221;<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> &#8211; both fan favourites from the Ian Gillan era.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">During this time, Bevan used a Yamaha Stage Custom kit, known for its solid build and strong projection &#8211; great for loud, high-energy sets. Similar setups are available, such as the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Yamaha-Stage-Custom-Birch-22-6pc-Shell-Pack-Raven-Black\/3C60\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Yamaha Stage Custom Birch 22&#8221; 6pc Shell Pack<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, which includes an extra tom for that huge rock and metal setup<\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Although his time with Sabbath was short, Bevan made a strong impact. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/d-4PzKpdxo0?si=KsB-awuuN63J_6Nl\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Eric_Singer\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Eric Singer\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Years with Black Sabbath: 1985 \u2013 1987<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Eric Singer joined Black Sabbath in the mid-1980s, playing drums on <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Seventh Star<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> (1986) and <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The Eternal Idol<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> (1987). These albums came during a more experimental phase for the band, and Singer\u2019s tight, punchy playing helped keep things grounded.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Singer\u2019s drumming on <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Seventh Star<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> &#8211; which was originally meant to be a Tony Iommi solo album &#8211; leans more towards hard rock than Sabbath\u2019s earlier sound. By the time of <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The Eternal Idol<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, he added a stronger metal edge, especially on tracks like &#8220;<\/span>The Shining&#8221;<span data-contrast=\"auto\">, helping to set the tone for the band\u2019s late-\u201980s revival.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">At the time, Singer played Sonor drums. He currently endorses Pearl drums and even has his own signature snare. He pairs his kits with Zildjian cymbals and sticks &#8211; including his own <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Zildjian-Eric-Singer-Artist-Series-Drumsticks\/2MW9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Eric Singer Artist Series sticks<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> &#8211; and typically uses Remo or Terry Bozzio Attack heads. His setups also often feature ddrum acoustic triggers.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Singer moved on not long after his stint with Sabbath, but his impact on their mid-\u201980s catalogue is still easy to hear.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/MW6ddB-WmWU?si=0W_hHSqt98TaxIbZ\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Terry_Chimes\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Terry Chimes<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Years with Black Sabbath: 1987<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Terry Chimes, best known as the original drummer for The Clash, joined Black Sabbath for a short spell in 1987. He was part of <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The Eternal Idol<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> tour and also showed up in the music video for <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The Shining<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, adding his name to a key moment in the band\u2019s late-\u201980s story &#8211; even if it was a brief chapter.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Chimes brought his sharp punk rock background to Sabbath\u2019s changing sound in the late \u201980s. His drumming on the tour clearly contrasted with some of the flashier styles that came before him.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Chimes didn\u2019t appear on any studio recordings with Sabbath, but his presence on tour came at a crucial time, providing a constant during a run of line-up changes. A punk drummer stepping into a metal band brought a subtle edge to Sabbath\u2019s live shows.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/6bPt_nRpu0o?si=p956FW0tgjoHxuuv\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Cozy_Powell\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Cozy Powell<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Years with Black Sabbath: 1988 &#8211; 1991 and 1994 \u2013 1995 <\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Cozy Powell joined Black Sabbath in 1988 and played on several albums, including <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Headless Cross<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Tyr<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, and <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Forbidden<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. His drumming added a real sense of power and grandeur to the band\u2019s late-era sound, helping to recapture some of the drama and scale that defined their early records.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Powell was a seasoned pro, having played with the likes of Jeff Beck, Rainbow, and Whitesnake before joining Sabbath.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Powell played Yamaha drums and Paiste cymbals, along with a Premier 252 single bass drum pedal &#8211; all gear known for its power, clarity, and durability. This pedal was discontinued, but a similar pedal is the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Premier-Artist-Single-Pedal\/6PWY\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Premier Artist Pedal<\/span><\/b><\/a>\u00a0<span data-contrast=\"auto\">&#8211; its dual chain design offers great playing response.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Although Powell\u2019s time with Sabbath came to an end in the mid-\u201990s, his impact was lasting. Tragically, he died in a car crash in 1998. His legacy lives on &#8211; not just through the many bands he played with, but in the weight and presence he brought to Sabbath\u2019s later recordings.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/TC-o8zsA_XA?si=W1hl7ShahWbXqLf4\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mike_Bordin\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Mike Bordin\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Years with Black Sabbath: 1997<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Mike Bordin stepped in for a brief but memorable stint with Black Sabbath in 1997, filling in for Bill Ward on their reunion tour. Known for being the drummer of Faith No More, Bordin brought a fresh, aggressive energy to the live shows. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">It was a crucial time for the band, with the original line-up back in the spotlight, and Bordin helped keep that momentum going.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Even though he\u2019s left-handed, Bordin plays a right-handed drum kit with the ride cymbal on the left &#8211; a common setup for open-handed players.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">His style is heavy but controlled, which made him a great fit for Sabbath\u2019s sound, especially when tackling the older material live.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Bordin wasn\u2019t a stranger to the Sabbath circle &#8211; he\u2019d already been playing with Ozzy Osbourne before stepping in with the full band. <\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Brad_Wilk\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Brad Wilk\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Years with Black Sabbath: 2013<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Brad Wilk came on board in 2013 to record <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">13<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, Black Sabbath\u2019s final studio album. Best known for his work with Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave, Wilk brought a stripped-back, groove-heavy style that fit perfectly with producer Rick Rubin\u2019s vision, taking Sabbath back to their raw, heavy roots.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Wilk\u2019s drumming on <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">13<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> played a big part in helping Sabbath recapture the feel of their early records, while still sounding fresh. His work on &#8220;<\/span>God Is Dead?&#8221;<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> helped the band earn a Grammy for Best Metal Performance in 2014. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">On the track, his sparse, powerful playing creates atmosphere and lets the riffs breathe, all without losing any of the intensity.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">One of Wilk\u2019s most recogniseable sounds is his snare tone, thanks to a Tama Bell Brass snare, known for its bright, cutting attack, and strong projection. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you want to achieve a similar sound, check out the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Tama-Mastercraft-14-x-65-Cast-Bell-Brass-Snare-Drum\/64Q2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Tama Mastercraft 14 x 6.5&#8243; Cast Bell Brass Snare Drum<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">It\u2019s a popular choice in hard rock and metal for good reason. While Wilk didn\u2019t tour with Sabbath, his work on <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">13<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> earned him a place in their legacy.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/L4rFtcY082Y?si=u8p5FoQYXi-CyjzO\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tommy_Clufetos\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Tommy Clufetos<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Years with Black Sabbath: 2012 \u2013 present<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Tommy Clufetos stepped in as Black Sabbath\u2019s touring drummer in 2012, following a solid stint with Ozzy Osbourne\u2019s solo band. While he didn\u2019t play on their final album <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">13<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, he was the driving force behind their live shows from 2013 onwards &#8211; including the massive Worldwide Reunion Tour and their farewell run, <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The End<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Clufetos first took the stage with Black Sabbath in May 2012, stepping in for Bill Ward. His first shows were in Australia and New Zealand, followed by a standout performance at London\u2019s Hyde Park. He was also behind the kit for <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The End<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> tour, which wrapped up with the band\u2019s final show in Birmingham &#8211; a historic moment captured on <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The End<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> concert DVD.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Clufetos brought serious energy and precision to Sabbath\u2019s live shows, nailing material from across their entire career. His physically dramatic playing style gave him a pretty commanding stage presence.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">He plays DW drums, Meinl cymbals, Vic Firth sticks, and Remo heads &#8211; all professional-grade gear suited to hard-hitting, high-volume performance. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Many of these items are readily available for drummers looking for robust, road-tested equipment, such as the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/DW-Collectors-Series-3-Piece-Shell-Pack-Nickel-Sparkle-Glass-Chrome-Hardware\/7244\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">DW collectors series<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 we think it\u2019s the perfect setup to achieve Clufetos&#8217; sound.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/7htHAfBJyOs?si=0va48LqKNNasa2h5\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;FAQs &#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;#f08000&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">FAQs<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_many_drummers_did_Black_Sabbath_have\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">How many drummers did Black Sabbath have?<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Black Sabbath had nine main drummers throughout their career. While Bill Ward was the original and most iconic, others like Vinny Appice, Bev Bevan, and Tommy Clufetos also played key roles during different eras. Lineup changes were common due to health and musical direction shifts.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_is_the_new_drummer_for_Black_Sabbath\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Who is the new drummer for Black Sabbath?<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The drummer for Black Sabbath in their final touring lineup was Tommy Clufetos. He performed during their farewell tour, <em>The End,<\/em> after Bill Ward was absent due to contract disputes. Clufetos brought powerful energy and had previously played with Ozzy Osbourne&#8217;s solo band.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_Bill_Ward_a_good_drummer\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Is Bill Ward a good drummer?<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Bill Ward is one of the greatest drummers! He played a vital role in shaping Black Sabbath&#8217;s heavy, innovative sound with jazz-influenced rhythms and dramatic tempo changes. His style was crucial to the band\u2019s early success and musical identity.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;Final thoughts &#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;#f08000&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Final_thoughts\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Final thoughts\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Every <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Black Sabbath drummer<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> brought something different to the band, contributing to an iconic, long-lasting legacy. Now, bear with us as we put on &#8220;War Pigs&#8221; and whack the volume up.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=&#8221;1_2,1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_button button_url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/drum-kits.html&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text=&#8221;SHOP DRUMS&#8221; button_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;NEW CTA Button&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_button=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text_size=&#8221;14px&#8221; button_text_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; button_bg_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_border_width=&#8221;0px&#8221; button_border_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_font=&#8221;Arial|700|||||||&#8221; button_icon=&#8221;&#x35;||divi||400&#8243; button_icon_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;||||false|false&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;10px|30px||30px|false|false&#8221; box_shadow_style=&#8221;preset6&#8243; box_shadow_blur=&#8221;2px&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_button button_url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/category\/drums\/drum-guides\/&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text=&#8221;READ MORE DRUM GUIDES&#8221; button_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;NEW CTA Button&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_button=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text_size=&#8221;14px&#8221; button_text_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; button_bg_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_border_width=&#8221;0px&#8221; button_border_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_font=&#8221;Arial|700|||||||&#8221; button_icon=&#8221;&#x35;||divi||400&#8243; button_icon_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;||||false|false&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;10px|30px||30px|false|false&#8221; box_shadow_style=&#8221;preset6&#8243; box_shadow_blur=&#8221;2px&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>As one of the bands that helped introduce heavy metal music to the world, Black Sabbath\u2019s sound was very much shaped by their drummers. Every Black Sabbath drummer adds a new layer to the story.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":62,"featured_media":45663,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"<p><span style=\"color: #999999;\">Featured image: Creative Commons License by <a title=\"User:MusikAnimal\" href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Black_Sabbath_Barclays_Center_March_2014.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">MusikAnimal<\/a><\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">As one of the bands that helped introduce heavy metal music to the world, Black Sabbath\u2019s sound was very much shaped by their drummers. Every <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Black Sabbath drummer<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> adds a new layer to the story. <\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In this article, we\u2019ll take a look at the key figures behind the kit, how they influenced the band\u2019s evolution, and what each era brought to the table.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">In a hurry?<\/span><\/h3><p><span data-contrast=\"none\">At a glance, here's the history of Black Sabbath's drummers: <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":160,\"335559739\":80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><ul><li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Bill Ward\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Vinny Appice\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Bev Bevan\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Eric Singer\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Terry Chimes\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Cozy Powell\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Mike Bordin\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Brad Wilk\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Tommy Clufetos\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><hr \/><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">Black Sabbath drummers<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":160,\"335559739\":80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3><h4><span data-contrast=\"none\">Bill Ward \u2013 Black Sabbath\u2019s first drummer\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Years with Black Sabbath: 1968-1980, 1983-1984, 1994, 1997-2006 and 2017<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Bill Ward was there from the very beginning, co-founding Black Sabbath in 1968 and laying down the foundations of their early sound. His drumming on albums like <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Paranoid<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> and <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Master of Reality<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> helped shape what heavy metal would become, mixing bluesy grooves with a jazzy swing that you don\u2019t often hear in the genre. <\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Just listen to \"<\/span>War Pigs\"<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> - the way he controls the dynamics and plays with timing really set Sabbath apart from other bands at the time.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Ward\u2019s background in big band and jazz drumming - shaped by influences like Gene Krupa and Buddy Rich - gave him a unique style.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Over the years, he played on 11 of the band\u2019s studio albums. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">But despite his huge influence, ongoing health problems and struggles with addiction meant he stepped away from the band multiple times between 1980 and 2006. In the end, he wasn\u2019t part of their final reunion concert in 2017.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Ward started with Ludwig and Slingerland drum kits, along with Zildjian cymbals. If you want to achieve a similar sound to the early Sabbath era, check out the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Ludwig-Continental-22-4pc-Shell-Pack-Natural-Maple\/5L1R\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Ludwig Continental 22'' 4pc Shell Pack<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. You can pair this with the iconic <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Ludwig-14-x-65-Black-Beauty-Snare-Drum-Imperial-Lugs\/QLA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Ludwig Black Beauty snare drum<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">to achieve that classic metal sound. <\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">He also used <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Ludwig-Speed-King-Pedal\/3C04\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Speedking pedals<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> in those early days \u2013 a firm favourite for many drummers in the '70s. Later in his career, he switched to Tama drums and Sabian cymbals.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/6BPIL8oNazk?si=wsOs9zDoibesAfBP\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-contrast=\"none\">Vinny Appice\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Years with Black Sabbath: 1980 - 1982. He then played on and off with the band between 1991 - 1992, and 1998 - 1999. <\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Vinny Appice joined Black Sabbath in 1980 during the <em>Heaven and Hell<\/em> tour, stepping in after Bill Ward\u2019s sudden departure. His first gig at Aloha Stadium in Hawaii was far from ideal - with crib notes ruined by the rain and last-minute gear - but he still pulled it off.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">He brought a heavier, more direct drumming style that helped shape albums like<em> Mob Rules<\/em> (1981), <em>Live Evil<\/em> (1982), and <em>Dehumanizer<\/em> (1992), all featuring Ronnie James Dio on vocals. His playing locked in tightly with Tony Iommi\u2019s riffs, adding precision to Sabbath\u2019s sound.<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">In fact, there's a stark <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">contrast between Appice's aggressive, powerful sound and Ward's looser, jazzier feel.<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Appice was inducted into the Hall of Heavy Metal History in 2017, recognised for a career built on power, consistency, and knowing exactly how to elevate the music, even on short notice.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/7IDXXTsah6g?si=qnFZxoA3qFBchjNT\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-contrast=\"none\">Bev Bevan<\/span><\/h4><p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Years with Black Sabbath: 1982 - 1983 and 1987<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Bev Bevan joined Black Sabbath for the <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Born Again<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> tour in 1983, then returned in 1987 to record percussion on <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The Eternal Idol<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. Best known for his work with Electric Light Orchestra, Bevan brought a heavier, more direct style.<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">His drumming on the <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Born Again<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> tour was powerful and, to be honest, straight-up no-nonsense, giving Sabbath\u2019s live sound a raw, thumping edge. He also appeared in the videos for \"<\/span>Trashed\" and \"Zero the Hero\"<span data-contrast=\"auto\"> - both fan favourites from the Ian Gillan era.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">During this time, Bevan used a Yamaha Stage Custom kit, known for its solid build and strong projection - great for loud, high-energy sets. Similar setups are available, such as the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Yamaha-Stage-Custom-Birch-22-6pc-Shell-Pack-Cranberry-Red\/3C5R\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Yamaha Stage Custom Birch 22'' 6pc Shell Pack<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, which includes an extra tom for that huge rock and metal setup<\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Although his time with Sabbath was short, Bevan made a strong impression with his volume and intensity.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/d-4PzKpdxo0?si=KsB-awuuN63J_6Nl\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-contrast=\"none\">Eric Singer\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Years with Black Sabbath: 1985 \u2013 1987<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Eric Singer joined Black Sabbath in the mid-1980s, playing drums on <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Seventh Star<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> (1986) and <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The Eternal Idol<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> (1987). These albums came during a more experimental phase for the band, and Singer\u2019s tight, punchy playing helped keep things grounded.<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Singer\u2019s drumming on <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Seventh Star<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> - which was originally meant to be a Tony Iommi solo album - leans more towards hard rock than Sabbath\u2019s earlier sound. By the time of <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The Eternal Idol<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, he added a stronger metal edge, especially on tracks like \"<\/span>The Shining\"<span data-contrast=\"auto\">, helping to set the tone for the band\u2019s late-\u201980s revival.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">At the time, Singer played Sonor drums. He currently endorses Pearl drums and even has his own signature snare. He pairs his kits with Zildjian cymbals and sticks - including his own <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Zildjian-Eric-Singer-Artist-Series-Drumsticks\/2MW9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Eric Singer Artist Series sticks<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> - and typically uses Remo or Terry Bozzio Attack heads. His setups also often feature ddrum acoustic triggers.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Singer moved on not long after his stint with Sabbath, but his impact on their mid-\u201980s catalogue is still easy to hear.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/MW6ddB-WmWU?si=0W_hHSqt98TaxIbZ\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-contrast=\"none\">Terry Chimes<\/span><\/h4><p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Years with Black Sabbath: 1987<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Terry Chimes, best known as the original drummer for The Clash, joined Black Sabbath for a short spell in 1987. He was part of <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The Eternal Idol<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> tour and also showed up in the music video for <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The Shining<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, adding his name to a key moment in the band\u2019s late-\u201980s story - even if it was a brief chapter.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Chimes brought his sharp punk rock background to Sabbath\u2019s changing sound in the late \u201980s. His drumming on the tour was solid and driving - a clear contrast to some of the flashier styles that came before him.<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Chimes didn\u2019t appear on any studio recordings with Sabbath, but his presence on tour came at a crucial time, providing a constant during a run of line-up changes. A punk drummer stepping into a metal band wasn\u2019t something you saw often back then, and that crossover brought a subtle edge to Sabbath\u2019s live shows.<\/span><\/p><p><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/6bPt_nRpu0o?si=p956FW0tgjoHxuuv\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-contrast=\"none\">Cozy Powell<\/span><\/h4><p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Years with Black Sabbath: 1988 - 1991 and 1994 \u2013 1995 <\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Cozy Powell joined Black Sabbath in 1988 and played on several albums, including <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Headless Cross<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Tyr<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, and <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Forbidden<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. His drumming added a real sense of power and grandeur to the band\u2019s late-era sound, helping to recapture some of the drama and scale that defined their early records.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Powell was a seasoned pro, having played with the likes of Jeff Beck, Rainbow, and Whitesnake before joining Sabbath.<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Powell played Yamaha drums and Paiste cymbals, along with a Premier 252 single bass drum pedal - all gear known for its power, clarity, and durability. This pedal was discontinued, but a similar pedal is the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Premier-0205-Single-Bass-Drum-Pedal\/4087\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Premier 0205 Single Bass Drum Pedal<\/span><\/b><\/a>\u00a0<span data-contrast=\"auto\">- its dual chain design offers great playing response.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Although Powell\u2019s time with Sabbath came to an end in the mid-\u201990s, his impact was lasting. Tragically, he died in a car crash in 1998. His legacy lives on - not just through the many bands he played with, but in the weight and presence he brought to Sabbath\u2019s later recordings.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/TC-o8zsA_XA?si=W1hl7ShahWbXqLf4\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-contrast=\"none\">Mike Bordin\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Years with Black Sabbath: 1997<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Mike Bordin stepped in for a brief but memorable stint with Black Sabbath in 1997, filling in for Bill Ward on their reunion tour. Known for being the drummer of Faith No More, Bordin brought a fresh, aggressive energy to the live shows. <\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">It was a crucial time for the band, with the original line-up back in the spotlight, and Bordin helped keep that momentum going.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Even though he\u2019s left-handed, Bordin plays a right-handed drum kit with the ride cymbal on the left - a pretty quirky setup. <\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">His style is heavy but controlled, which made him a great fit for Sabbath\u2019s sound, especially when tackling the older material live.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Bordin wasn\u2019t a stranger to the Sabbath circle - he\u2019d already been playing with Ozzy Osbourne before stepping in with the full band. <\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-contrast=\"none\">Brad Wilk\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Years with Black Sabbath: [2013]<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Brad Wilk came on board in 2013 to record <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">13<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, Black Sabbath\u2019s final studio album. Best known for his work with Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave, Wilk brought a stripped-back, groove-heavy style that fit perfectly with producer Rick Rubin\u2019s vision, taking Sabbath back to their raw, heavy roots.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Wilk\u2019s drumming on <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">13<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> played a big part in helping Sabbath recapture the feel of their early records, while still sounding fresh. His work on <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">God Is Dead?<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Even helped the band earn a Grammy for Best Metal Performance in 2014. <\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">That track really highlights his strength - using sparse, powerful playing to create atmosphere and let the riffs breathe, all without losing any of the intensity.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">One of Wilk\u2019s standout sounds is his snare tone, thanks to a Tama Bell Brass snare, known for its bright, cutting attack, and strong projection. <\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you want to achieve a similar sound, check out the<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/Tama-Mastercraft-14-x-65-Cast-Bell-Brass-Snare-Drum\/64Q2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Tama Mastercraft 14 x 6.5\" Cast Bell Brass Snare Drum<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">It\u2019s a popular choice in hard rock and metal for good reason. While Wilk didn\u2019t tour with Sabbath, his work on <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">13<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> earned him a place in their legacy.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/L4rFtcY082Y?si=u8p5FoQYXi-CyjzO\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-contrast=\"none\">Tommy Clufetos<\/span><\/h4><p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Years with Black Sabbath: 2012 \u2013 present<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Tommy Clufetos stepped in as Black Sabbath\u2019s touring drummer in 2012, following a solid stint with Ozzy Osbourne\u2019s solo band. While he didn\u2019t play on their final album <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">13<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, he was the driving force behind their live shows from 2013 onwards - including the massive Worldwide Reunion Tour and their farewell run, <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The End<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Clufetos first took the stage with Black Sabbath in May 2012, stepping in for Bill Ward. His first shows were in Australia and New Zealand, followed by a standout performance at London\u2019s Hyde Park. He was also behind the kit for <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The End<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> tour, which wrapped up with the band\u2019s final show in Birmingham - a historic moment captured on <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The End<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> concert DVD.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Clufetos brought serious energy and precision to Sabbath\u2019s live shows, nailing material from across their entire career. His physically dramatic playing style gave him a pretty commanding stage presence.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">He plays DW drums, Meinl cymbals, Vic Firth sticks, and Remo heads - all professional-grade gear suited to hard-hitting, high-volume performance. <\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Many of these items are readily available for drummers looking for robust, road-tested equipment, such as the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Drums-and-Percussion\/DW-Collectors-Series-3-Piece-Shell-Pack-Nickel-Sparkle-Glass-Chrome-Hardware\/7244\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">DW collectors series<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 we think it\u2019s the perfect setup to achieve Clufetos' sound.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/7htHAfBJyOs?si=0va48LqKNNasa2h5\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe>\u00a0<\/p><hr \/><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">FAQs<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":160,\"335559739\":80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3><h4><span data-contrast=\"none\">How many drummers did Black Sabbath have?<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Black Sabbath had nine main drummers throughout their career. While Bill Ward was the original and most iconic, others like Vinny Appice, Bev Bevan, and Tommy Clufetos also played key roles during different eras. Lineup changes were common due to health and musical direction shifts.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-contrast=\"none\">Who is the new drummer for Black Sabbath?<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The drummer for Black Sabbath in their final touring lineup was Tommy Clufetos. He performed during their farewell tour, <em>The End,<\/em> after Bill Ward was absent due to contract disputes. Clufetos brought powerful energy and had previously played with Ozzy Osbourne's solo band.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-contrast=\"none\">Is Bill Ward a good drummer?<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Bill Ward is one of the greatest drummers! He played a vital role in shaping Black Sabbath's heavy, innovative sound with jazz-influenced rhythms and dramatic tempo changes. His style was crucial to the band\u2019s early success and musical identity.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">Final thoughts\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":160,\"335559739\":80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Every <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Black Sabbath drummer<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> brought something different to the band, contributing to an iconic, long-lasting legacy. Now, bear with us as we put on \"War Pigs\" and whack the volume up.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>","_et_gb_content_width":"","_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[144,241],"tags":[165,290],"class_list":["post-45629","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drums","category-drum-guides","tag-drums","tag-guide"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.9 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>The History of Black Sabbath Drummers | Gear4music<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"We dive into the history of Black Sabbath drummers, looking at the key figures behind the kit and how they influenced the band\u2019s evolution.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/black-sabbath-drummers\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"The History of Black Sabbath Drummers | Gear4music\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"We dive into the history of Black Sabbath drummers, looking at the key figures behind the kit and how they influenced the band\u2019s evolution.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/black-sabbath-drummers\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Gear4music Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Gear4music\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2025-05-27T08:00:04+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-06-02T11:58:59+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2025\/05\/Featured-image-Black-Sabbath-Drummers.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1330\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"665\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Bethany\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@gear4music\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@gear4music\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Bethany\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"9 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":[\"Article\",\"BlogPosting\"],\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gear4music.com\\\/blog\\\/black-sabbath-drummers\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gear4music.com\\\/blog\\\/black-sabbath-drummers\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Bethany\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gear4music.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/ea3cff67956a9883fe1a4865a76a4d48\"},\"headline\":\"The History of Black Sabbath Drummers &#8211; 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