Jim Keltner: The Session Drummer Who Shaped Rock Music
When it comes to session drummers, few have had as profound an impact on music as Jim Keltner. Though his name might not be as instantly recognizable as some of the legendary artists he has collaborated with, his influence stretches across decades of musical history. Keltner’s drumming can be heard on countless classic songs, seamlessly blending groove, dynamics, and a deep understanding of rhythm that has left an indelible mark on the industry.
Keltner’s career took off in the late 1960s and early 1970s, a golden era for session musicians, alongside greats like Hal Blaine, Jeff Porcaro, and Earl Palmer. He quickly became the go-to drummer for some of the most influential artists in rock and roll, including Bob Dylan, John Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. His connection to The Beatles extended beyond individual collaborations—he was an honorary member of the supergroup Traveling Wilburys, where his drumming provided the steady backbone for hits like Handle with Care, alongside Tom Petty, Roy Orbison, Jeff Lynne, and Harrison. His work on Living in the Material World further showcased his ability to elevate a songwriter’s vision through masterful percussion.
Keltner's drumming style is a fusion of jazz drumming, hard rock power, and nuanced pop music sensibility. His work with Steely Dan on Josie demonstrated his precision, while his contributions to Neil Young, Eric Clapton, and Ry Cooder recordings highlighted his ability to adapt across genres. He played a key role in The Concert for Bangladesh, an all-star benefit led by Harrison and Ravi Shankar, where he performed alongside Clapton, Leon Russell, and Billy Preston. Years later, he returned for Concert for George, honoring Harrison’s legacy with yet another stunning display of drumming endurance and musical intuition.
Known for his impeccable drum kit tuning and ability to shape a song’s tempo with just the right touch, Keltner has worked with an astonishing range of artists—from Elton John to the Rolling Stones, from the Steve Miller Band to Elvis Costello. His drumbeat on Lennon’s Jealous Guy remains one of the most iconic in recording history, while his session work with Pink Floyd, Paul McCartney, and Joe Cocker added depth and character to their compositions. His ability to blend electronic drums and drum machines with acoustic percussion kept him relevant in the ever-evolving landscape of rock and pop rock.
Beyond his legendary session work, Keltner has played a crucial role in teaching and mentoring young drummers, sharing his knowledge of drum rudiments, snare drum technique, and the importance of groove. He has influenced modern players like Travis Barker and Kenny Aronoff, and his name is frequently mentioned in drum books and online drum lessons. His collaborations with bassists, guitarists, and composers highlight his role as more than just a drummer—he is a true musical architect.
Even after decades in the business, Keltner remains a revered figure in recording sessions and live performances. His work with artists like Fiona Apple, Lucinda Williams, and Rufus Wainwright proves that his drumming is as relevant today as it was in the heyday of rock and roll. His approach to percussion, from congas to timpani to electronic drum pads, has inspired drummers worldwide, and his contributions to music history are celebrated by fans and musicians alike.
Jim Keltner’s legacy is more than just a collection of credits—it’s a testament to the power of rhythm, the art of accompaniment, and the lasting impact of a great session musician. Whether laying down a subtle jazz groove or powering through a hard rock anthem, Keltner has shaped the sound of modern music, one masterful beat at a time.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1942, Jim Keltner grew up surrounded by the rich musical culture of the American heartland. His early fascination with rhythm and percussion was sparked by jazz drumming legends such as Max Roach and Buddy Rich, whose intricate drum rudiments and dynamic control shaped his approach to the drum kit. Inspired by the grooves of hard rock, pop music, and jazz, Keltner developed a unique style that seamlessly blended swing, groove, and precision.
As a young musician, he studied the interplay between tempo and feel, practicing tirelessly on the snare drum, bass drum, and toms to refine his touch. His interest extended beyond traditional drum setups—he experimented with congas, djembe, tambourines, and even early drum machines, honing a versatility that would make him one of the most sought-after session drummers of his time. While he wasn't a household name like Keith Moon or Charlie Watts, Keltner’s drumming prowess earned him recognition among elite musicians, and his session work would leave an indelible mark on rock music history.
Before long, he found himself in the company of legends. His session work led him to collaborate with artists like Leon Russell and Ry Cooder, paving the way for high-profile gigs with Joe Cocker, the Steve Miller Band, and Steely Dan. His ability to master different genres and adapt to complex musical compositions caught the attention of The Beatles’ inner circle. Keltner became a key figure in post-Beatles projects, drumming for John Lennon's Imagine sessions, George Harrison’s Living in the Material World, and Ringo Starr’s solo albums. His connection to The Beatles deepened when he performed at The Concert for Bangladesh, a groundbreaking charity event organized by Harrison and Ravi Shankar.
Throughout the 1970s and 80s, Keltner became the go-to drummer for icons like Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, and Neil Young, showcasing his endurance and dynamic touch on legendary tracks. He played a crucial role in the formation of the supergroup The Traveling Wilburys, joining George Harrison, Jeff Lynne, Tom Petty, Roy Orbison, and Bob Dylan in crafting timeless songs like Handle with Care. His ability to provide a solid, tasteful groove made him an essential part of countless recording sessions, from the folk-rock storytelling of John Hiatt to the jazz-infused intricacies of Donald Fagen’s Aja.
Keltner’s contributions to music extended beyond the drum kit. He embraced emerging technology, incorporating drum machines and sampling into his work while maintaining the organic feel of live drumming. Whether playing a tight pop rock beat for Nick Lowe, a reggae-influenced groove for a Fiona Apple track, or experimenting with progressive rock alongside Pink Floyd’s network of collaborators, his adaptability was unmatched. Even as trends shifted, Keltner remained in high demand, contributing to projects by Elvis Costello, Randy Newman, and even later collaborations with Nile Rodgers and Sheryl Crow.
The Rise of a Session Legend
Jim Keltner's big break came in the late 1960s when he started working as a session musician in Los Angeles, a city that had already produced legendary drummers like Hal Blaine of The Wrecking Crew. Inspired by Blaine’s approach to session drumming, Keltner quickly became one of the most sought-after drummers in rock music, admired for his impeccable timing, groove, and ability to blend seamlessly into any musical arrangement. His skill with the drum kit, from the subtle articulation of the snare drum and tom drums to the expressive use of cymbals, made him a favorite among producers and artists alike.
One of his most notable early gigs was drumming on Watching the River Flow by Bob Dylan, where his steady yet expressive playing drove the song without overpowering Dylan’s distinct vocal phrasing. This collaboration marked the beginning of a long association with Dylan, who continued to call on Keltner for landmark albums such as Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid and Knocked Out Loaded. Keltner’s ability to master both hard rock and folk-inspired grooves made him indispensable to Dylan’s ever-evolving sound.
His reputation soon extended beyond Bob Dylan’s projects, leading him to work with George Harrison, Ringo Starr, and John Lennon on their post-Beatles solo ventures. Keltner became a key figure in the Plastic Ono Band, drumming for Lennon on Imagine and Jealous Guy, adding a delicate balance of rhythm and dynamics. He later played a crucial role in Harrison’s Living in the Material World and the legendary Concert for Bangladesh, where he shared drumming duties with Ringo Starr. His endurance and mastery of tempo allowed him to support live performances that demanded both subtle jazz drumming and driving rock beats.
Keltner’s reach in pop and rock music only expanded from there. He played for Steely Dan on Josie, added his rhythmic finesse to records by Joe Cocker, Ry Cooder, and Leon Russell, and even collaborated with icons like Eric Clapton, Elton John, and Neil Young. His work with The Rolling Stones showcased his ability to adapt to the gritty blues-infused rock and roll that defined Mick Jagger and Keith Richards’ songwriting. Meanwhile, his experimental approach to percussion—blending traditional drum rudiments with instruments like the conga, djembe, and electronic drum sounds—allowed him to remain ahead of the curve as drum machines and MIDI technology became increasingly prevalent in recording sessions.
By the late 1980s, Keltner found himself drumming for the Traveling Wilburys, the supergroup featuring George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison, Tom Petty, and Jeff Lynne. His relaxed yet precise drumming on Handle with Care and End of the Line contributed to the band’s signature sound, balancing rock and roll with elements of folk and pop rock. His ability to adapt across genres, from progressive rock with Pink Floyd to rootsy Americana with John Hiatt and Lucinda Williams, solidified his status as a masterful session drummer.
Even outside of the studio, Keltner's influence extended into music education and production. He worked as a teacher and mentor, guiding younger drummers and musicians on mastering the nuances of groove and dynamics. His drumming has been widely studied, sampled, and referenced in modern music, with producers and audio engineers using his grooves as a benchmark for natural-sounding rhythm tracks. His work with artists ranging from Randy Newman and Sheryl Crow to Fiona Apple and Brian Wilson proves his adaptability and deep understanding of musical composition.
Throughout his career, Keltner’s contributions to music have been recognized by peers and fans alike. Whether performing alongside legends at The Concert for George or lending his touch to projects spanning jazz, pop, and rock and roll, he remains a cornerstone of recorded music history. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as part of numerous iconic collaborations, his legacy as a session drummer, composer, and musical innovator continues to inspire drummers worldwide.
Keltner and The Beatles Connection
Though Jim Keltner never officially joined The Beatles, his work as a session drummer cemented him as a key figure in the extended Beatles universe. His association with John Lennon began with Plastic Ono Band, where his restrained yet deeply expressive drumming played a crucial role in shaping the album’s raw, emotional intensity. On Jealous Guy, Keltner’s delicate cymbal work and dynamic snare drum accents added a layer of vulnerability to the song, making it one of Lennon’s most heartfelt performances.
Keltner’s relationship with George Harrison was equally significant, contributing to Living in the Material World, where his subtle drum rudiments and masterful control of tempo gave the record a warm, organic feel. He also performed at The Concert for Bangladesh, sharing the stage with Eric Clapton, Ringo Starr, and Leon Russell, demonstrating his endurance and adaptability across various musical compositions.
Beyond his work with individual Beatles, Keltner played a crucial role in The Traveling Wilburys, a supergroup featuring Harrison, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, Jeff Lynne, and Roy Orbison. His laid-back yet compelling groove on Handle with Care became an essential part of the band’s signature rock music sound. His ability to blend elements of pop rock, hard rock, and even jazz drumming showcased his deep understanding of rhythm and musical arrangement.
Beyond The Beatles’ orbit, Keltner collaborated with legends like Joe Cocker, Gary Wright, and Steely Dan. His precise drumming style, influenced by Hal Blaine and The Wrecking Crew, earned him a reputation as a recording session powerhouse. He worked with Elton John, The Rolling Stones, Mick Jagger, and Paul McCartney, further solidifying his legacy in rock and roll history.
Keltner’s impact extended into experimental and modern production techniques, contributing to sampling, drum machines, and even digital drum MIDI programming. His mastery of bass drum, tom drum, and conga allowed him to transcend genres, working with artists from Pink Floyd to Nile Rodgers. He was also a sought-after music teacher, sharing his knowledge of percussion ensembles and online drum lessons to inspire new generations of drummers.
From The Beatles to The Traveling Wilburys, and from Elvis Costello to Lucinda Williams, Jim Keltner’s career reflects a lifetime dedicated to music, groove, and the art of drumming. Whether behind an acoustic drum kit or shaping modern electronic drum sounds, his contributions remain vital to rock and roll and beyond.
Steely Dan, Eric Clapton, and Other Iconic Collaborations
One of the hallmarks of Jim Keltner’s career is his versatility as a session drummer, a skill that has placed him alongside some of the most legendary names in rock music. His ability to adapt to different grooves, master intricate drum rudiments, and balance dynamic drum beats has cemented his status among elite drummers like Hal Blaine, Jeff Porcaro, Steve Gadd, and Kenny Aronoff.
His work with Steely Dan on Josie, a standout track from Aja, showcases his finesse in jazz drumming, effortlessly blending syncopated rhythms with a rock-solid tempo. Keltner's approach to the drum kit—balancing the resonance of cymbals, tom drums, and the snare drum—made him a perfect match for Donald Fagen and Walter Becker’s meticulous recording sessions. His groove on Josie is as precise as it is fluid, making it a defining moment in pop rock drumming.
Beyond Steely Dan, Eric Clapton frequently called on Keltner to lay down the rhythmic foundation for his albums, from the blues-driven There’s One in Every Crowd to the rock-infused No Reason to Cry. Keltner’s ability to switch between the powerful attack needed for hard rock tracks and the subtle touch required for blues and pop music showcased his incredible endurance and musical dynamics.
Keltner’s collaborations extend beyond just Clapton and Steely Dan—his drumming played a pivotal role in some of the most influential records in history. He worked with The Beatles’ John Lennon, George Harrison, Paul McCartney, and Ringo Starr, becoming one of the few drummers to record with every member of the band post-breakup. He was the driving force behind Jealous Guy from Lennon’s Imagine and contributed to Harrison’s Living in the Material World. His work with The Traveling Wilburys—a supergroup featuring Harrison, Tom Petty, Roy Orbison, Bob Dylan, and Jeff Lynne—on songs like Handle with Care further solidified his status as a session musician who could seamlessly blend into any musical setting.
Keltner was also a key figure in historic concerts, including The Concert for Bangladesh and Concert for George, honoring his close friend Harrison. His ability to navigate between rock and roll, progressive rock, jazz, and even reggae drumming styles made him a go-to drummer for artists as diverse as Ry Cooder, Joe Cocker, Elton John, the Steve Miller Band, Jackson Browne, Mick Jagger, Willie Nelson, and Fiona Apple. His drumming was just as essential in studio sessions as it was in live performances, where his feel for groove and rhythm made every song breathe.
The Concert for Bangladesh and Beyond
In 1971, The Concert for Bangladesh became a landmark moment in rock music history, setting the precedent for benefit concerts to follow. Organized by George Harrison, this historic event brought together some of the greatest musicians of the era, including Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, Ravi Shankar, Leon Russell, and Ringo Starr. Jim Keltner played a pivotal role in the rhythm section, delivering a powerful yet nuanced drum performance alongside Starr, showcasing his deep understanding of groove, tempo, and dynamic control. His ability to merge Western rock drumming with Indian classical rhythms reflected a level of musicality and cultural sensitivity that solidified his reputation as one of the finest session musicians of his time.
Beyond his contributions to The Concert for Bangladesh, Keltner became a defining figure in the session drumming world, often compared to legends like Hal Blaine, Jeff Porcaro, and Earl Palmer. His mastery of the snare drum, bass drum, tom drum, and intricate drum rudiments made him a sought-after musician for artists across multiple genres, from hard rock and pop music to jazz and progressive rock. Over the years, he played on countless recording sessions, contributing to albums by Steely Dan, Ry Cooder, Joe Cocker, Harry Nilsson, Elton John, and The Rolling Stones. His versatility extended to drum machines and sampling, adapting to evolving music production techniques.
Keltner’s association with The Beatles didn't end with The Concert for Bangladesh. He worked extensively with John Lennon on projects like Jealous Guy and Imagine, played on Ringo Starr's solo albums, and collaborated with Paul McCartney on various projects, including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame tribute concerts. He was also a core part of the supergroup The Traveling Wilburys, which featured Harrison, Tom Petty, Jeff Lynne, Roy Orbison, and Bob Dylan. His drumming on songs like Handle with Care demonstrated his effortless ability to blend into a band while maintaining a signature rhythmic feel.
In 2002, Keltner once again honored George Harrison’s legacy at The Concert for George, performing alongside Paul McCartney, Jeff Lynne, Tom Petty, Ringo Starr, and an all-star lineup that included members of The Band and The Rolling Stones. His role in these tribute performances highlighted his deep connection to Harrison’s music and his enduring influence on rock and roll.
As a musician with an innate sense of rhythm, Keltner’s drumming embodies the essence of groove, whether playing acoustic cymbals and congas or integrating electronic elements like MIDI and drum machines. His contributions to rock music, pop rock, and even jazz drumming continue to inspire drummers worldwide. His endurance and adaptability across decades, from classic rock to modern digital recording techniques, make him one of the most respected drummers in history. Whether in a session drummer role or on stage at legendary concerts, Keltner's artistry remains an essential part of music history.
Honoring a Session Drumming Giant
Jim Keltner’s contributions to rock, pop, jazz, and even progressive rock cannot be overstated. His ability to craft grooves that serve the song, whether through subtle cymbal work, a deep-pocketed snare drum backbeat, or experimental percussion, has made him one of the most sought-after session musicians of all time. His mastery of rhythm and musical intelligence shine through whether he’s laying down a steady tempo for Bob Dylan, providing dynamic drum fills for John Lennon’s Jealous Guy, or adding depth to George Harrison’s Living in the Material World.
Keltner has played a pivotal role in shaping modern rock and pop music. His work with The Beatles' members—George Harrison, Paul McCartney, and Ringo Starr—solidified his place among drumming legends. He was a key part of the Concert for Bangladesh, where his interplay with fellow drummers, including Ringo Starr, demonstrated his ability to blend seamlessly into large ensemble arrangements. Later, he became an unofficial member of the supergroup Traveling Wilburys, lending his signature groove to Handle with Care, one of their most iconic tracks.
Beyond rock music, Keltner’s drumming spans genres, from jazz drumming with Steely Dan to hard rock with Eric Clapton and experimental rhythms with Ry Cooder. His drum kit setups vary, often incorporating congas, djembe, and electronic drums to create unique textures. His ability to fuse traditional drum rudiments with modern drum machine techniques has influenced generations of drummers, from Jeff Porcaro to Kenny Aronoff and even modern players like Travis Barker.
A true studio veteran, Keltner has collaborated with legendary artists such as Elton John, Mick Jagger, Joe Cocker, Willie Nelson, and Neil Young, bringing his impeccable sense of groove to countless hit songs. His work on Dream Weaver with Gary Wright, Josie with Steely Dan, and Watching the River Flow with Bob Dylan exemplifies his versatility as a session drummer. Whether working with singer-songwriters like Joni Mitchell and Randy Newman or rock icons like The Rolling Stones and The Band, Keltner’s ability to enhance a song without overpowering it remains unparalleled.
Even as younger drummers emerge, Keltner’s legacy continues to inspire. His influence can be heard in the sampling techniques of hip-hop producers, the dynamic playing of jazz drummers like Steve Gadd, and the rock-solid beats of session legends like Hal Blaine and Roger Hawkins. His endurance, both physically and creatively, has allowed him to remain at the forefront of music for decades, from the early days of rock and roll to the modern era of digital recording and MIDI production.
Jim Keltner is more than just a session musician—he’s a cornerstone of modern drumming, a master of groove, and a testament to the power of rhythm. His ability to make any song feel just right has earned him a place among the greats, alongside Hal Blaine, Earl Palmer, and Charlie Watts. Whether behind a bass drum, a tom drum, or a percussion ensemble, his touch elevates every recording. For drummers and musicians alike, studying his work is an essential lesson in dynamics, musical composition, and the art of making a song come alive.