I was thinking the other day that the most important lesson I ever had (when I was starting out 35+ years ago) was from a fantastic, amazing drum teacher I was lucky enough to have.. he played in my brother's band and gave me lessons for $5 a pop! In any case the lesson was on 'how to play tight'.. (not to be confused with playing loose and relaxed - which is how you always want to play!). Playing tight means playing with precision, in the pocket with dynamics and a great feel. To this day, whenever I play, I always channel the way this guy played.. he had lightning fast reflexes and perfect time - as well as the way he hit the drums dynamically with such finesse - it was very inspiring! He started off the lesson by playing a cut from the record Deep Purple in Rock - Living Wreck.. where Ian Paice plays an introductory beat to lead the band in.. and it was like 'listen to this guy.. this is a perfect example of what I'm talking about'. It's like you are totally inside the beat..
If you can put all those elements together, you will find your playing - and the band you are driving will cook like nobodies business! It's like you are in the zone.. and your ears open up as well. Whenever I hear drummers that just pound the drums, or have time issues.. I think 'if only they'd taken that lesson!!!'
If you can put all those elements together, you will find your playing - and the band you are driving will cook like nobodies business! It's like you are in the zone.. and your ears open up as well. Whenever I hear drummers that just pound the drums, or have time issues.. I think 'if only they'd taken that lesson!!!'
The best lesson ever..
