Vinnie Colaiuta
One of the most popular and technically awesome drummers of all time, Vinnie was runner-up in the group to progress to the next round with ease.
His contribution to the work of Sting, Frank Zappa, Joni Mitchell, Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea and Jeff Beck has for a good many years made him the go-to guy for any artists needing a man capable of absolute mastery of sublime rhythms, odd-time and incredible chops.
Steve Gadd
One of the most recorded drummers of all time, during the 1980s Steve Gadd made the idea of the session drummer cool, an artist in his own right.
Gadd's contribution to the music of Paul Simon, Eric Clapton and Chick Corea was inspired and inspiring, causing no less than Buddy Rich to single him out for "elevating the art of drumming".
Easily topping the sixth group – Pop/Session/Gospel – with nearly 20% of the vote, Steve Gadd will be hoping to repeat his victory in the next round.
Stewart Copeland
Copeland revolutionised drumming with a dynamic style that combined punk rock, pop and the reggae one-drop.
With The Police he created classic albums on which Sting's passionate vocals and Andy Summers' celestial guitar was perfectly complemented by Copeland's intelligent percussion.
Chad Smith
The Red Hot Chili Peppers' indomitable sticksman is also a man of many side projects including the funky Bombastic Meatbats and classic rockers Chickenfoot.
But it's for his work with LA funk-punks the Chili Peppers on classic albums like Bloodsugarsexmagik and Californication that he's lauded as one of the best rock and funk players around.
John Bonham
Led Zeppelin's John Bonham was a master and commander of the drums whose powerful sound and style has influenced generations of players.
Surely a favourite to win the competition, having topped just about every drummer's poll ever. However, you can't underestimate the magic of the cup, as they say. Anything can happen, particularly with the young upstarts getting plenty of votes from eager fans.
Buddy Rich
A quarter-century since his passing, jazz and big band legend Buddy Rich is still considered one of the greatest ever drummers.
Rich has topped just about every serious drummer's poll of the greatest ever sticksman, however since this isn't particularly serious, Buddy may not have the easiest ride in this tournament.
