Jim Gordon: The drama of the drummer.

He's a drummer of exceptional talent. He's credited as the co-author of “Layla." He has schizophrenia... and he's in prison.

There are many, but three stand out when one thinks about drummers who shaped the sound of modern rock music: Hal Blaine, Jim Gordon, and Jeff Porcaro.

All three did more than keep time; they transcended the hired hand or sideman role.

Blaine is most famously known as a member of the Wrecking Crew, studio wizards who helped Phil Spector create his “Wall o…