During this Christmas season, when you are being bombarded by Christmas music, listen for Michael Buble’s version of “All I Want for Christmas” and bask in the groove of Modern Drummer 2025 Hall of Fame inductee, Jim Keltner. That is just one of the thousands of songs that Jim’s creativity has brought to life. With a career that stretches from John Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr to Bob Dylan, Joe Cocker, Neil Young, Eric Clapton, Ry Cooder, Dolly Parton, Mavis Staples, and Jerry Lee Lewis, and to younger artists like Michael Buble’, Connor Oberst, Phoebe Bridgers, Sheryl Crow, John Mayer, and Fiona Apple. We were excited that Jim was able to take time out from his most recent sessions (also with Buble’) to talk about his life, his wonderful career, his influences, and his vast influence on all of us. Some drummers don’t need a lengthy introduction. Ladies and […]

December 2025 Issue