Mike Portnoy is on the short list of the greatest drummers of all time and has received recognition from Far Out magazine, which compiled a list of the best drum solos of all time.
Portnoy's work on the song 6:00 Dream Theater's song from their third album made the list.
«The first track on the third album from progressive metal heroes Dream Theater,» Awake «"'6:00' showcases some of Mike Portnoy's finest drumming. Even though he's no longer with the band, it's songs like these that remind us how integral he was to shaping the band's sound," Far Out Magazine wrote.
«"He was their rhythm master, controlling the entire band. Taking cues from his idol Neil Peart, Portnoy delivers a brilliant performance here. Powerful yet understated, he can rightfully claim the title of one of the greatest drummers of all time. There are double bass drum hits, rhythm changes, and countless intricacies.".
Mike Portnoy's favorite drummers were certainly "great.".
In an interview with Drum Magazine, Portnoy admitted that his favorite band of all time was The Beatles, including Ringo Starr. However, he had deep respect for many other percussionists.
«"My favorite drummers of all time aren't necessarily the so-called great drummers. For me, the mark of a great drummer is someone who creates powerful music and does something innovative," he said.
«"They don't necessarily have to be complicated, difficult, or technical guys. Ringo Starr, Nick Mason, and Larry Mullen Jr.—those guys hold as deep a place in my heart as Terry Bozzio or Neil Peart. I can appreciate different drummers for different reasons.".
Mike Portnoy's departure from Dream Theater was prompted by a guest appearance.
Portnoy suggested Dream Theater take a break from performing to pursue other creative outlets, and eventually replaced Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan after the Avenged Sevenfold drummer's sudden death.
The new work became the catalyst for Portnoy's departure from Dream Theater in 2010.
«"After that experience with Avenged, I realized how much I enjoyed it, because I didn't have to sit with a calculator and play drums," he said. "Not that there's anything wrong with that. I did that all those years with Dream Theater, and I loved it, too, but, man, my brain just needed a break, and I really loved that atmosphere in Avenged.".
See also: 1966 rock hit named one of the greatest drum solos of all time
This article was originally published in Men's Journal on June 4, 2026, in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal to your list of preferred sources by clicking here.