Introduction: We are a part of the Rhythm Nation -- Sam Lay: integrating the blues -- Hal Blaine: the sound of California -- Al Jackson Jr.: from Memphis to the Love Crowd -- Ringo Starr: the biggest fool that ever hit the big time -- Charlie Watts: let it loose -- Kenny Buttrey: beyond the Nashville sound -- Moe Tucker: louder than anything -- Clyde Stubblefield: don't turn it loose -- John Bonham: power and presence -- Bernard "Pretty" Purdie: the sweetener -- Earl Hudson: this is hardcore -- Tony Thompson: the biggest beat -- Dave Lombardo: going to extremes -- Dave Grohl: one big rip-off! -- Questlove: man vs. machine

"Rock and roll thrives on rhythm, but the drummers who drive that pulse often stay in the shadows. In Backbeats, acclaimed music historian John Lingan brings these unsung heroes into the spotlight, delivering a fascinating journey through six decades of rock history. Drawing on deep research and vivid storytelling, Lingan explores the lives of fifteen pathbreaking drummers and their fellow timekeepers--men and women who together laid down the beat of an era. ... Packed with insider stories and exclusive interviews--from Robert Plant's reflections on Led Zeppelin's legendary sessions to superstar recording engineer Steve Albini's behind-the-scenes accounts--Backbeats offers an eye-opening glimpse into some of rock's most unforgettable moments, including the seismic shift of Bob Dylan going electric at Newport, James Brown's explosive creation of funk in the late sixties, and the birth of LA thrash metal in the early eighties."--Dust jacket flaps