James Brown's Funky Drummer - Drum Lesson

Go here http://bangthedrumsquickly.com for the notation for this lesson
In this video we go over the beat played on the tune Funky Drummer done by James Brown and his band. The drum solo on the recording is performed by Clyde Stubblefield and is probably one of the most sampled rhythmic beat in hip hop and pop music today.

We break it down by starting with the bass drum pattern.

Next we learn the snare pattern. This one is a little difficult to learn, because it feels like the hi hat and snare should be played separately but in fact they are played together all the time.

Putting the snare and bass together can be a little challenging. Maybe try just playing eighth notes on the hi hat instead of sixteenths.

The hi hat openings are most difficult part of this beat because it feels like it comes on such odd times. But actually its not that random.


Post with any questions.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• Clyde Stubblefield
• cool
• drum lessons
• drumming
• easy
• fast
• fun
• funk
• Funky Drummer
• hip hop
• In The Jungle Groove
• James Brown
• King Records
• pop music
• The Funky Drummer
• tips

[ManiacSerialKilleR]

you're playing it wrong,

there isnt a bass kick at the 3rd count.

[DisgruntledAntelope]

played it wrong btw

[ivanbagual]

please metronome .....

[mcTOOSH1]

Although this is different to Clyde Stubblefield's funky drummer who gives a toss? It's your own interpretation of the funky drummer. Who says you have to play it the same way? There's no need for crap comments. As long as it sounds funky then that's all that matters!

[freakontime15]

the stiks backwards/upside down

[alzalzo1]

hey man , thanks for your help  !

[ThaiGreenLiam]

@alzalzo1 hes playing straight 16th notes over a normal 4 crotchets in a bar man. basically hes playing every note with his right hand on the hi-hat. i cant think of an easier way to explain it man. hope it helps bro.

[indyandsam]

Wow - I didn't realise what a bunch of dickheads musicians are until I read the comments

[csanz35]

looks like a Berklee practice room....

[alzalzo1]

what notes R you playing in the hi hat , im having a hard time to keep up on the hi hat , im beginner player

[MrSlapshot007]

This was a very good lesson, breaking it down into the component parts. WELL DONE and keep up th good work!

[GMANKOOL23]

@ManiacSerialKilleR you right about that