Led Zeppelin's 'Rock and Roll' Named Greatest Drum Intro Ever by Ultimate Classic Rock

Some songs need a few seconds to grab your attention. Led Zeppelin's "Rock and Roll" needs about two.

Before Robert Plant sings a single word or Jimmy Page unleashes a riff, drummer John Bonham announces exactly what's about to happen with one of the most recognizable openings in rock history. According to Ultimate Classic Rock, it's also the greatest drum intro ever recorded.

The publication recently ranked the best rock drum intros of all time and placed "Rock and Roll" at No. 1, ahead of countless classics that followed in its wake. More than 50 years after the song's release, it's still easy to understand why.

John Bonham's Opening Is Still Instantly Recognizable

Released on Led Zeppelin's landmark 1971 album Led Zeppelin IV, "Rock and Roll" was designed as a tribute to the early rock pioneers who inspired the band. The song wastes no time getting started.

Bonham's explosive opening fill launches directly into the track's driving groove, creating one of the most memorable introductions in rock music. It's the kind of drum part that countless musicians have tried to replicate and generations of fans can identify within seconds.

Why It Still Stands Above the Rest

In naming it the greatest drum intro of all time, Ultimate Classic Rock praised Bonham's unique combination of power and precision. The outlet noted that many drummers can play aggressively, but few could match Bonham's ability to propel a song forward while maintaining complete control.

The intro to "Rock and Roll" feels as though it might spin off the rails at any moment. Yet every crash, strike, and accent lands exactly where it should. That's part of what made Bonham such a force behind the kit.

While fellow rock legends like Keith Moon were known for their wild, unpredictable style, Bonham's brilliance often came from channeling enormous power into a groove that never lost its direction.

One of Rock's Most Influential Drummers

Bonham's reputation has only grown since his death in 1980. He's routinely ranked among the greatest drummers in music history, and his work with Led Zeppelin continues to influence rock, hard rock, metal, and countless other genres.

For many fans, "Rock and Roll" remains the perfect example of what made him special. The intro is loud, it's fast, and it's unmistakable.

And more than five decades later, it still delivers the same adrenaline rush it did in 1971.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Jun 19, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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This story was originally published June 19, 2026 at 5:00 AM.