i agree todd,i think for the most part it's a 'drummer thing' to show other players respect,and to appreciate their playing.you don't get it a lot from guitarists,that's for sure.some of the players you mentioned in your second post i haven't even heard of,but i am familiar with the playing of the feller from foreigner,and he has some lovely chops going on.i know a couple of pat benatar songs,but paul delong is a new one on me.if i may throw a couple of names into the mix...............
Bobby Elliot....The Hollies.lovely player with a great jazz touch,still doing the business today.
Mick Tucker....The Sweet.what a great pop/rock player,amazing chops and very overlooked....R.I.P Mick
another guy who never gets the recognition is Roger Taylor from Queen.big big playing from a small bloke.
my last mention is for Chris Sharrock...The La's,Lightning Seeds,Robbie Williams,Oasis,Beady Eye.very moon like antics,but the playing is very much there.excellent.
so,the man at the back.the guy everyone turns their back on.the guy who steers the ship,night after night.if he gets it right,no-one remembers.if he gets it wrong,no-one forgets.