Exploring Keith Moon's Drumming Style and His Hi-Hat Usage

Keith Moon, the legendary drummer of The Who, is widely recognized for his wild and innovative drumming style. However, a common question among fans and music enthusiasts is, 'Why didn’t Keith Moon use a hi-hat in his drumkit?'

Did Keith Moon Have a Hi-Hat?

Contrary to popular belief, Keith Moon did indeed have a hi-hat in his drumkit. However, it was not always a consistent presence during his performances. There are several reasons for this, which we will explore in this article.

Keith Moon and His Wild Drumming Style

One of the primary reasons Keith Moon didn't always use a hi-hat was his flamboyant and chaotic drumming style. Known for his flailing on the toms and crash cymbals, Keith often left the hi-hat out of his setup. Many musicians choose to use hi-hats for their precise and rhythmic qualities, but Keith Moon’s approach to drumming was more focused on the dynamic and often loud sounds produced by his toms and cymbals.

Keith Moon’s Jazz Influences

Keith Moon was heavily influenced by jazz drumming, which often emphasizes the use of ride and crash cymbals over the hi-hat. This unique approach is evident in many of his performances and recordings.

Key moments:

Keith’s use of a hi-hat can be seen in the 'Who Are You' video. When the hi-hat is needed, he occasionally leans over to use the hi-hat set to his right, proving that he did use it when required. A 14-inch Zildjian hi-hat, which Keith endorsed during his later career, further illustrates his relationship with hi-hats.

Why Did Keith Moon Prefer Other Cymbals?

Another reason for Keith Moon’s minimal use of the hi-hat is the sonic impact of the other cymbals in his kit. The ride and crash cymbals he frequently used created a rich and full sound that could mask the nuances of a hi-hat. The hi-hat, while important, might not have provided enough contrast or interest in the context of his dramatic performances.

Conclusion: Keith Moon’s Drumming Approach

Ultimately, Keith Moon’s drumming style and approach to his drumkit weren’t about following conventional patterns. He was a true original, and his drumming was characterized by spontaneity, experimentation, and a disregard for traditional drumming norms. This is why he often left the hi-hat out of his setup, preferring the bold and unpredictable sounds of his toms and cymbals.

While he did have a hi-hat, it was only one part of his vast and complex drumming arsenal. His unique approach to drumming not only defined his legendary performances but also left a lasting impact on the world of music.