Which drummer is known for co-founding the progressive metal band Dream Theater?

Mike Portnoy co-founded Dream Theater, originally formed under the name Majesty. He helped establish the band's progressive metal style through intricate drumming, long compositions, and frequent rhythmic changes.

Portnoy formed the band in 1985 with guitarist John Petrucci and bassist John Myung while the three were students at Berklee College of Music. He remained Dream Theater's drummer until 2010, then returned to the band in 2023.

Neil Peart, Bill Ward, and Lars Ulrich are also highly influential rock or metal drummers, but they are associated with Rush, Black Sabbath, and Metallica respectively. Portnoy's work with Dream Theater also earned him several Modern Drummer readers' poll awards.