Simon Kirke helped write the blueprint for British blues-rock and classic rock drumming — straightforward, powerful, and always in service of the song. His playing anchored two legendary bands back-to-back: first Free (with Paul Rodgers and Paul Kossoff), then Bad Company, where his groove and touch became part of rock radio history.
Kirke’s drumming can be heard on some of the defining records of the era. With Free, he helped drive the band’s classic early-’70s run, including Fire and Water (1970). With Bad Company, he became the band’s only continuous member and helped power their signature sound across the prime 1970s catalog (Bad Company, Straight Shooter, Run with the Pack), building a reputation for huge backbeats, wide-open grooves, and a feel that always sounded natural rather than forced.
What he’s doing now: Kirke stayed in the public spotlight during Bad Company’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction week, including appearances and interviews around the November 8, 2025 ceremony (with coverage noting Paul Rodgers could not perform due to health concerns). In late 2025 interviews, Kirke also spoke about plans for a new solo album and even a rock stage musical concept — showing he’s still creating, not just looking backward.
Recordings / credits: Kirke’s core recorded legacy runs through Free and Bad Company’s classic albums, plus decades of live performance releases and reissues tied to those bands’ catalogs.
Gear: Ludwig Drums; Paiste Cymbals.
Sources: American Songwriter; Glide Magazine; East Hampton Star; Entertainment Weekly; Paiste (Simon Kirke artist listing).
Update: 1/22/26
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