Bill Bruford

The cerebral prog master who drummed for Yes and King Crimson, known for odd time signatures and pioneering electronic percussion.

William Scott Bruford is an English drummer and percussionist best known for his work with Yes, King Crimson, and his own jazz-fusion projects. His intellectual approach to drumming—emphasizing odd time signatures, melodic tom work, and restraint—set him apart from his contemporaries. Bruford was an early adopter of electronic drums and Simmons pads. He retired from professional drumming in 2009 to focus on writing and education.