The greatest rock songs of all time feature iconic guitar riffs and solos, but every now and then, the drummer steals the show.
This was the case with Ginger Baker, the drummer for Rush, who is considered by many to be one of the greatest drummers of all time. Many lists of the best or most iconic drum solos of all time cite Baker's work on Toad album laid the foundation for the rest of the rock world.
Far Out magazine called Baker's performance in the film "Toad"« one of the greatest in history.
Ginger Baker is one of the most influential drummers of all time.
Far Out magazine named Baker one of the most influential drummers of all time, paving the way from jazz to rock.
«"His solo on Cream's 1966 instrumental classic 'Toad' truly paved the way for the concept of the drum solo in rock music. It had long been used by jazz and big band drummers, and since Baker was so familiar with those genres, he decided to bring it to rock, and it was the right decision," wrote Far Out Magazine.
«"Using the bass drum and toms with absolute precision, never missing a beat, Baker showcased his unbridled genius on 'Toad.' Including a few ghostly notes, it's safe to say his technical mastery as a drummer surpassed that of [John] Bonham. The way he builds energy on this track is incredible; it's like he has two sets of hands.".
The Cream company lasted only three years.
Cream became the first true supergroup, teaming Baker with bassist Jack Bruce and guitarist Eric Clapton. Together they released four albums: Fresh Cream (1966), Disraeli Gears (1967), Wheels of Fire (1968) and Goodbye (1969), which sold over 15 million copies.
«"It was a bad gig; Cream were better," the late Baker said in the documentary. «Cream: Classic Artists» about his farewell performance in 1968. "We knew it was over. We knew we were just wrapping things up.".
Despite only being around for a few years, Cream rightfully holds a place in the pantheon of the greatest rock bands of all time.
See also: 1981 rock hit named one of the greatest drum solos of all time
This article was originally published in Men's Journal on June 1, 2026, in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal to your list of preferred sources by clicking here.