Steve Hewitt: The Placebo Drummer You Need To Know

Nichole Feest 21 May 2025

Ever wondered what propels a band from the local pub scene to international acclaim? For Placebo, much of that kinetic energy came from Steve Hewitt, the powerhouse drummer whose influence went far beyond simply keeping the beat.

Steve Hewitt, the English musician who pounded his way into the hearts of alternative rock fans as the drummer for Placebo, has a story that extends beyond the stage. Born in Nottingham, England, on March 22, 1971, Hewitts musical journey began early. By 1991, he'd already joined his first band, Breed, honing his skills and laying the foundation for his future success. It wasn't until 1996 that he found his true calling, stepping in to replace Robert Schultzberg as the drummer for Placebo. From that moment on, Hewitt's explosive drumming became an integral part of the band's sound, featuring on every album until his departure. Most recently, Placebo has released "Never Let Me Go" (2022).

Birth Name:	Steve Hewitt
Birth Date:	March 22, 1971
Birth Place:	Nottingham, England
Occupation:	Musician, songwriter, producer, engineer
Band:	Placebo (1996-2007)
Musical style:	Alternative rock
Awards:	NME Award for Best Drummer (2007)
Reference	AllMusic

But Hewitt was far more than just a drummer. He's known for his powerful and energetic drumming style, which wasn't his only contribution to the band. He is also a talented songwriter, having co-written several of Placebo's hits, including the iconic "Nancy Boy" and "Pure Morning". His musicianship and skill have garnered praise from critics and fans alike, solidifying his place as a respected figure in the music industry. Beyond his commitments to Placebo, Steve Hewitt broadened his horizons by playing drums for other notable bands like The Mars Volta and The Auteurs. His talents extended into production and engineering, where he produced albums for bands like The Cooper Temple Clause and Amplifier, proving his versatility in the music industry.

Steve Hewitt is an English musician widely known for his role as the drummer of the alternative rock band Placebo. But his influence extends far beyond the drum kit. He's a songwriter who has co-authored many of the band's memorable tracks, and hes also an active participant in the production and engineering aspects of their music.

Musician: Drummer, songwriter, producer
Band: Placebo (1996-2007)
Musical style: Alternative rock
Known for: Powerful and energetic drumming
Collaborations: The Mars Volta, The Auteurs
Awards: NME Award for Best Drummer (2007)

Hewitt's drumming is celebrated for its raw power and relentless energy, making him one of the most esteemed drummers in the music world. His songwriting skills are evident in some of Placebo's most beloved hits. His dedication to the music industry is apparent not only through his performances but also through his work in producing and engineering, as well as his collaborations with bands like The Mars Volta and The Auteurs, which further emphasize his adaptability as a musician.

Steve Hewitt is a true multi-faceted musician who has earned acclaim as a drummer, songwriter, and producer. His diverse skills and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in his success and have significantly enriched the music he's been involved with.

As a drummer, Hewitt's signature style is his commanding and energetic approach, a trait that has come to define the sound of Placebo. His drumming serves as the backbone of the band's music, injecting a rhythmic drive and creating a vibrant soundscape. As a songwriter, Hewitts talent shines through his work on Placebo's albums. He co-wrote many of the band's most popular songs, including the unforgettable "Nancy Boy" and "Pure Morning," demonstrating his capacity to craft both catchy melodies and thought-provoking lyrics.

Beyond his involvement with Placebo, Hewitt has generously shared his skills as a producer and engineer with other bands like The Cooper Temple Clause and Amplifier. These projects highlight his deep commitment to the music industry and his desire to nurture other artists. His capabilities in production and engineering allow him to sculpt the sonic identities of different bands and contribute creatively.

In essence, Steve Hewitt's journey as a musician, songwriter, and producer underscores his passion for music and his relentless dedication to his craft. His contributions have left a lasting impression on the music industry, emphasizing his versatility and talent.

Steve Hewitt's connection to Placebo, which was originally formed in 1994, represents a pivotal moment in his musical trajectory. Joining the band in 1996, Hewitt served as drummer, songwriter, and producer, shaping Placebo's sound and ensuring their lasting success.

Drumming:
Hewitt's powerful and energetic drumming is inextricably linked to Placebo's music. His precise, dynamic playing delivers a rhythmic foundation, fueling the band's energetic performances and captivating listeners.
Songwriting:
Hewitt's contributions extend beyond his role as a drummer. He co-authored some of Placebo's most memorable songs, including "Nancy Boy" and "Pure Morning," where his skill for crafting memorable melodies and introspective lyrics is evident.
Production:
Hewitt also took on production duties for Placebo's albums, offering his understanding of the bands creative vision and technical expertise to the overall sonic quality and cohesion of the music.
Collaborative Spirit:
Hewitt's collaborative approach within Placebo is clear in his interactions with Brian Molko and Stefan Olsdal. Their collective approach to songwriting and shared enthusiasm for creating profound music has resulted in a distinctive sound that resonates with fans worldwide.

Hewitts time with Placebo demonstrates not only his individual abilities but also his pivotal role in the bands evolution. His contributions have solidified his importance as an integral member of Placebo and cemented his place in the alternative rock genre.

Steve Hewitt's musical style is deeply embedded in alternative rock, a genre born in the 1980s from a blend of punk, indie rock, and various other influences. Alternative rock is known for its experimental approach to sound and structure, often incorporating elements from genres like electronica, hip-hop, and folk.

Hewitt's drumming aligns perfectly with alternative rock, offering a blend of power and energy alongside experimentation and unpredictability. He's known for incorporating complex rhythms and fills, creating a beat that drives the music.

Hewitt's songwriting for Placebo echoes his alternative rock sensibilities. His songs often delve into dark and introspective themes, characterized by unusual chord progressions and melodic arrangements.

Hewitt's commitment to alternative rock has been a driving force in Placebo's success. The band has released many critically acclaimed albums and toured globally. His drumming and songwriting have helped to define Placebo's sound, earning him recognition as one of alternative rock's most influential drummers.

Steve Hewitt's powerful and energetic drumming defines his musical style and has been a major factor in his success as a musician. His precise and dynamic playing lays a solid rhythmic foundation for Placebo's music, fueling their energetic performances and enthralling audiences.

Hewitt's drumming style is influenced by a wide range of sources, including punk, heavy metal, and funk. He's known for his use of complex rhythms and fills, as well as his ability to create a driving beat that propels the band's music.

Hewitt's drumming has helped Placebo achieve tremendous success. They've released critically acclaimed albums and toured extensively. Hewitt's drumming has been crucial to Placebo's live performances, and he is considered one of alternative rock's most influential drummers.

Steve Hewitts collaborations with The Mars Volta and The Auteurs highlight his versatility and his dedication to exploring different musical styles. His work with these bands showcases his ability to adapt and bring his unique drumming style to create a distinctive sound.

Hewitt joined The Mars Volta as a touring drummer in 2005. His drumming complemented the bands complex and progressive sound, adding a driving force to their live performances. Hewitts contributions to The Mars Volta were well-received by fans and critics, quickly becoming essential to the bands live sound.

Besides his work with The Mars Volta, Hewitt has also collaborated with The Auteurs, an English alternative rock band. He played drums on their 2000 album, "How I Learned to Love the Bootboys," where his drumming created a raw and energetic sound that captured the band's rebellious spirit.

Hewitts collaborations with The Mars Volta and The Auteurs showcase his versatility and his willingness to explore different musical genres. His work with these bands has helped to shape his unique drumming style and has contributed to the overall success of both bands.

The NME Award for Best Drummer is a prestigious accolade presented annually by the British music magazine NME. Steve Hewitt received this honor in 2007, a testament to his drumming skills and contributions to the music industry.

Recognition of Talent:
The NME Award for Best Drummer recognizes Hewitt's exceptional skill as a drummer, highlighting his technical proficiency, rhythmic precision, and ability to create compelling drum patterns.
Impact on Placebo's Success:
Hewitt's drumming has played a key role in the success of Placebo, one of alternative rock's most influential bands. His energetic style has provided a solid foundation for the band's signature sound and live performances.
Influence on Aspiring Musicians:
Hewitt's NME Award is an inspiration to aspiring drummers, demonstrating the heights they can achieve through dedication and passion. His unique style has influenced a new generation of drummers, encouraging them to push the boundaries of their craft.
Contribution to Alternative Rock:
Hewitt's drumming has helped shape the sound of alternative rock music, influencing countless other bands and solidifying his place as one of the most respected drummers in the industry.

The NME Award for Best Drummer (2007) is a testament to Steve Hewitt's talent, his impact on Placebo's success, and his contributions to music. It acknowledges his skill, creativity, and influence, cementing his status as one of the most celebrated drummers of our time.

Below are six frequently asked questions and their answers, which provide deeper insights into Steve Hewitt's career, musical style, and contributions.

Question 1: What is Steve Hewitt's musical style?

Answer: Hewitt's musical style is rooted in alternative rock, a blend of punk, indie, and other influences. His drumming combines power, energy, and experimentation, fitting the genre's unconventional sounds and structures.

Question 2: What are some of Steve Hewitt's notable collaborations?

Answer: Hewitt has collaborated with bands such as The Mars Volta and The Auteurs. His work with these bands demonstrates his versatility and adaptability to different styles, from progressive to alternative rock.

Question 3: What is Steve Hewitt's most significant contribution to music?

Answer: Hewitt's most significant contribution is his powerful and energetic drumming, which has shaped Placebo's sound and live performances. His innovative abilities have influenced many drummers and contributed to alternative rock's evolution.

Question 4: What awards has Steve Hewitt received?

Answer: Hewitt received the NME Award for Best Drummer in 2007, recognizing his drumming skills and contributions to the music industry.

Question 5: What is Steve Hewitt's current musical status?

Answer: Hewitt is currently active in music, although no longer with Placebo since 2007. He remains an influential figure in alternative rock.

Question 6: What is Steve Hewitt's legacy in the music industry?

Answer: Steve Hewitt's legacy lies in his drumming style, which helped define Placebo's sound and influenced countless drummers. His contributions have solidified his position as one of the most respected drummers in the genre.

These FAQs offer a detailed overview of Steve Hewitt's career and contributions.

Steve Hewitt's journey as a musician, songwriter, and producer has made a lasting impact. His drumming has become synonymous with Placebo, shaping their sound. His songwriting and production work show his versatility.

Hewitt's collaborations with The Mars Volta and The Auteurs highlight his adaptability. His ability to blend his drumming into different genres demonstrates his musicality.

The NME Award for Best Drummer (2007) recognizes Hewitts skills and influence on alternative rock. His innovative approach has inspired musicians, solidifying his legacy.

Steve Hewitt's contributions to music will continue to inspire and shape alternative rock. His passion serves as a beacon for aspiring musicians.

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