If you’re a David Bowie fan or a drummer interested in iconic recordings, understanding the drums on Ashes to Ashes offers a fascinating glimpse into Bowie’s experimental sound. This listicle dives into the key drummers who contributed to this legendary track, what makes their performances stand out, and how to choose the right drummer for your needs. Whether you’re a musician, a collector, or a casual listener, this guide is tailored to help you appreciate the nuanced drumming that elevates Ashes to Ashes to timeless status.
1. Tony Visconti – The Producer’s Drummer
While Tony Visconti is primarily known as Bowie’s long-time producer, he also contributed percussion elements to Ashes to Ashes. His approach was subtle but crucial, especially in layering percussion sounds that give the track its distinctive groove. Visconti’s background in rock and experimental music allowed him to craft a drum sound that perfectly complements Bowie’s avant-garde aesthetic, making his contribution worth noting for those interested in production-driven drumming.
2. Dennis Davis – The Funky Drummer Behind the Beat
Dennis Davis was Bowie’s primary drummer during the late 1970s and played on several albums, including Scary Monsters. His tight, funk-influenced drumming provides the backbone of Ashes to Ashes, with crisp hi-hat work and precise snare hits. Davis’s ability to blend groove with experimental sounds makes his performance on this track a masterclass in rhythmic versatility, appealing to drummers seeking to emulate Bowie’s rhythmic complexity.
3. Tony Thompson – The Disco-Driven Rhythm
Though not directly credited on Ashes to Ashes, Tony Thompson’s influence can be felt in the track’s danceable rhythm. Known for his work with Chic and Led Zeppelin, Thompson’s style emphasizes punchy, dancefloor-ready beats. His approach serves as an inspiration for drummers aiming to achieve a balance between groove and experimental soundscapes, especially in Bowie’s more avant-garde work.
4. Ginger Baker – The Experimental Drummer
While Ginger Baker didn’t play on Ashes to Ashes, his style exemplifies the kind of experimental drumming that Bowie admired. Baker’s use of complex rhythms and unconventional percussion techniques in projects like Cream and his solo work influenced many drummers working on Bowie’s more experimental tracks. Studying Baker’s work provides insight into the kind of rhythmic innovation Bowie often sought.
5. Steve Shelley – The Modern Drummer
Steve Shelley of Sonic Youth is a more contemporary influence, known for his sparse yet impactful drumming style. His approach emphasizes space and texture, qualities that can be heard in modern reinterpretations of Ashes to Ashes. For drummers looking to modernize their sound while respecting the original, Shelley’s style offers valuable lessons in subtlety and dynamics.
6. Stewart Copeland – The Percussion Innovator
Famous for his work with The Police, Stewart Copeland’s energetic, syncopated style aligns with the rhythmic complexity of Ashes to Ashes. His use of off-beat accents and unconventional hi-hat patterns can inspire drummers to experiment with rhythmic layers that mirror Bowie’s innovative production. Copeland’s work demonstrates how percussion can serve as both rhythm and texture in a track.
7. Bernard Purdie – The Funk Master
Known as the “Pied Piper of R&B,” Bernard Purdie’s legendary shuffle and groove are influential for any drummer interested in soulful, tight drumming. Although not directly involved in Ashes to Ashes, Purdie’s techniques influence many modern drummers who seek to fuse funk with experimental sounds, making his style relevant for those exploring Bowie’s rhythmic landscape.
8. Jim Keltner – The Studio Drummer’s Drummer
Jim Keltner’s versatile style has made him a go-to session musician for countless artists, including Bowie. His ability to adapt to various genres and his subtle, supportive drumming make him an ideal reference point for understanding how to serve a song without overpowering it. Keltner’s work on Bowie’s albums demonstrates the importance of tasteful, understated percussion in creating a compelling soundscape.
9. Matt Chamberlain – The Contemporary Innovator
Matt Chamberlain’s inventive approach to drumming blends groove, experimental textures, and electronic elements. His work on projects like Tori Amos and Fiona Apple showcases his versatility, which can provide a modern perspective on the rhythmic foundation of Ashes to Ashes. For drummers seeking to fuse traditional and electronic percussion, Chamberlain’s style offers valuable insights.
10. How to Choose
When selecting a drummer to emulate or collaborate with for a project inspired by Ashes to Ashes, consider their ability to blend groove with experimental sounds. Look for versatility, a strong sense of rhythm, and an openness to incorporating electronic or unconventional percussion techniques. The right drummer should complement the song’s mood and production style, whether you’re aiming for a faithful recreation or a modern reinterpretation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who played the drums on Ashes to Ashes?
While specific credits for the drums are not explicitly listed, Dennis Davis’s style heavily influences the track’s rhythmic foundation.
What makes the drumming in Ashes to Ashes unique?
The combination of precise, funk-influenced grooves with experimental sound layers creates a rhythmic texture that’s both danceable and avant-garde.
Can I find isolated drum tracks of Ashes to Ashes?
Official isolated tracks are rare, but some multitrack stems and remix projects may offer partial drum isolations for educational purposes.
What drumming techniques are prominent in Ashes to Ashes?
Key techniques include tight hi-hat work, syncopated snare hits, and subtle use of percussion overlays that add texture without overpowering the track.
How does drumming contribute to the song’s overall mood?
The rhythmic elements underpin the song’s haunting, experimental atmosphere, anchoring Bowie’s vocals while adding rhythmic intrigue.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the drumming behind Ashes to Ashes reveals how percussion can elevate a song’s mood and complexity. From Dennis Davis’s foundational groove to experimental influences like Ginger Baker, each drummer’s style offers lessons in rhythm, texture, and innovation. Whether you’re a musician seeking to emulate this iconic sound or a listener appreciating its depth, recognizing these contributions enriches your experience of Bowie’s masterpiece. Ultimately, the choice of drummer depends on the desired sound—whether faithful to the original or pushing boundaries for a new interpretation—making this exploration both practical and inspiring for any music enthusiast.
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