The Big Beat: Conversations With Rock's Great Drummers

by Max Weinberg, Robert Santelli

Fourteen rock drummers discuss their careers, drumming techniques, and the musicians with whom they have worked

198 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1991

Reviews

[Thomas Mann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Max Weinberg is a perfect author for this account of famous rock drummers who shaped the music of the late 50's through the 80's. After each drummers background is highlighted, they are interviewed by the well known Bruce Springsteen drummer and author of this book, Max Weinberg. The discography for each drummer contains well known recordings and is most helpful. I learned a great deal about drummers like D. J. Fontana (Elvis Presley), Bernard Purdie (Aretha Franklin), Roger Hawkins (Percy Sledge, Staple Singers) and Charlie Watts (Rolling Stones). Very thoughtfully put together, this labor of love is a must for all drummers (and musicians) who appreciate famous rock music that great drummers helped shape.

[Christina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not really a music fanatic but one of my good friend’s dad is on the cover and has a chapter. The technical passages didn’t interest me, but the personal stories were gold.