I have been inspired by countless different musicians, over the last forty years; in no particular order, drummers John Bonham, Phil Collins, Phil Gould, Vinnie Colaiuta, David Garibaldi, Stewart Copeland, Gavin Harrison, Todd Sucherman, and endless others.
I find myself listening to music, not for the drummers, although this is something I obviously take great pleasure in, but for the bliss of ensemble. Drum solos should be fun, but playing in a group is for the pinnacle of music endeavour. There is nothing finer than playing in an ensemble that thinks and works together.
Inspiration takes many forms. It doesn't necessarily mean musical or technical excitement, it can be an ethos, or a feeling. A good example is that of Nick Mason of Pink Floyd. His laconic playing has never been satisfactorily emulated. There are technicians by the dozen, but only one Nick Mason. His placement of notes is iconic, graceful, and extrardinarily hard to do well. Am I inspired to emulate him? No, but the fact remains - he is unique. That individuality of style and sound is my goal.
My teaching reflects this. Every pupil is taught in a different way. There are, of course, shortcuts and methods, and fundamentals, but the end goal is to develop an individual's sound and style without compromisng their interests. In short, you are not going to sound like me!