Drummers and sometimes bass players get little respect.
But most are good about and tell the jokes themselves
They both keep the whole mess cohesive.
Without them, there’s no order.
They are the drivers of the musical bus so to speak. They hold the keys and it’s their foot on the gas pedal. Without them you’re not going very far. ( Same goes for the tuba in symphonic groups)
I say this as a reformed trumpeter. Back in the day I thought it was the one who carried the melody that counted the most...I’ve learned since then while sitting on the other side (as an audience member)
Now this is an appropriate apology. Not coerced..driven by experience.
Q. What the difference between a guitarist and a large pizza?
A. A large pizza can feed a family of four.