I've always thought that Michael Bland and John Blackwell were the best drummers Prince ever had(even better than my girl, Sheila E. who is an excellent percussionist). Who do you guys think is better. John seems to be more fancy with his playing, but i think Mike could hold his own with him.

It is a tough question... When Prince & Michael parted company, I thought it was a biiiiig mistake and that Prince would never find a drummer of that quality to replace him..... Kirk A Johnson..... bless him!

John Blackwell is the business for me. I am genuinely in awe of his playing at times... it's like.... no... that's just not possible! I have his DVD and some of the stuff blows me away.

Whilst some of Michaels stuff is great, (Sshhh is the best example), I think John is a more musical drummer and personally, has had the biggest influence on me as a drummer, although it's only in the last few years I've been aware of John.

thats an unfair question to ask dont u think?.... both men were/are perfect for the job as drummers for prince..

It's not an unfair question. I agree both men are very good drummers, but i just wanted to get everyone's opinion of who they feel is the best and why.

After last night's concert here in Detroit, I will say John Blackwell. He ripped it up last night. I have seen him play before, but his solo last night was amazing.

Smooches;)

....."tell ur buddy to take off his hat!" (ha,ha,ha,ha.....)

Michael Bland He could rock and play funk with ease and his solos aren't as predictible as Blackwell's. Blackwell is flashy but Michael didn't have to be, the drums in Call the Law or What's my Name are mind blowing.

Both are equally talented, but in different idioms.

Blackwell is a jazz/funk drummer par excellence.

Bland is the perfect funk/rock/hip hop drummer.

I like 'em both,obviously,but Blackwell is more "artistic" on drums and Bland is more bombastic.I love Blands hard hitting and his crash cymbal work.He was perfect for that time .He was great with the straight -up funk and Blackwell is good with the subtle funk.

Michael Bland was Great But I Think Blackwell well he's Really My Favorite Prince Drummer..He Rips It UP...

Blackwell is mindblowing...

Don't make me laugh.

Little is known about Michael Bland's creative input.

He's a far greater drummer
and he never got to show off the Sheila and John get to..

So if you've ever been to Bunkers you know.

Michael B!!!

Long Live the 1995 NPG!!!!

MsMisha319 said:

I agree - I was in awe of him to start but after Auburn Hills - OH MY WORD!!!! he is so good. My son was at the concert with me in Milwaukee - and he now wants to play drums - just from watching Blackwell. He is great!!!!

John Blackwell. The guy is amazing.

Pagey said:

John B. continually beats the hell out of those drums ...Michael was good for the time he was with Prince , but John is fierce when it comes to the music that Prince is playing now. To tell you the truth, I think that John Blackwell may be with Prince for a long time ...just like Rhonda....just my

JOhn B. Vs. Michael B? who cares? They're both better than Kirky J. and Bobby Z. put 2gether!

'dre

That's a hard one. Although I think I prefer Mike B's playing style, I'm gonna have to say John B. is a better drummer technically. Neither of them are a Dennis Chambers, but who is? (other than Dennis)[/b]