Phil Collins; hands down, bar none.
But Seriously, folks (pun intended). He's been the drummer on every Genesis album but 2 or 3 and played drums for jazz (Brand X) and big band (The Phil Collins Big Band) groups, not to mention the innumerable guest appearances he's made on albums by other major artists. And of course, he's been the drummer on every one of his own solo albums.
Many folks don't realize Collins is a drummer first and a singer/songwriter second. He's not only one of the most amazing timekeepers ever to hit something with a pair of sticks, but his playing is always
musical. The vast majority of drummers merely keep time and throw in a few fills here and there, but when Collins sits behind a kit, it becomes a truly remarkable musical instrument. His playing is fluid, seemingly effortless, and always faithful to the composition while enhancing it like no other drummer could.
For a little sample, check out
this solo from Genesis' The Way I Walk tour. Note the difference in style between Collins and Thompson (who is no slouch on the kit either). Also note how the solo is not just a couple of guys banging away, but an actual musical composition. Like the person who posted the vid said, Awesome.
