The Drummer's Role
What does it mean when someone says, “Wow, that drummer has a great feel”? To me, it means several things. Most of all, it means he is listening to what is going on around him. He knows the tune inside and out and always knows where he is in the form. It means he is fully supporting the musicians around him, and has studied the particular genre he is playing. A great drummer once told me, “You gotta be Dr. Feel Good every night.” I also remember reading a quote by Herbie Hancock: “If there were no other musicians playing, I wouldn’t have anything to play”.
If you’re thinking this doesn’t happen over night, you’re right. It takes years of listening, practicing, and playing. I believe that for drummers in particular, it’s a good idea to get acquainted with many forms of music, and get a level of comfort playing in these different grooves. (Check out Todd playing through an incredible assortment of rhythms in the video).
Learn the melody to the tune you want to play. Sing it. There’s a strong connection between your voice and your body.
Drumming and dancing go hand in hand. Take a look around the globe. African traditions and the African Diaspora illustrate this. In fact, most cultures do. I think it’s absolutely essential to play for dancers. Each dance has a particular shape and lilt. You’ll see where they put their emphasis, accents and general phrasing- very key to creating a groovy feeling.
-Herbie Hancock
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Methods to Obtaining the Role
One important step is to get some good headphones and play along with music. Try to lock in with the drummer and bass player. You’ll find out what it means to be “on the beat,” “on top of the beat,” or “behind the beat.” There’s so much variation in styles and feels. What makes, say John “Zigaboo” Modeleste different from Steve Gadd? Or Elvin Jones different than Jimmy Cobb? Or Terri Lyne Carrington different than Vinnie Colaiuta?
Another important step is to use a metronome. In fact, I would recommend using a metronome for all of your practicing, with the exception of when you’re playing along with music. It will feel very grounding. And humbling.
Recommended Reading for Drummers
There are two books that I used as a kid that I still recommend today.
One is Stick Control, by George L. Stone.
The other is Syncopation, by Ted Reed.
On the topic of syncopation, an amazing drummer named Allan Dawson came up with a concept now referred to as “The Ways” -- a method using syncopation for limb independence. It was a real breakthrough.
About the writer
Drummer, percussionist, teacher and author Todd Isler is based in New York City, where he has been active in the jazz and world music scenes for over 20 years. He plays with his band, International Orange, and numerous projects around New York City. View his teaching profile page >>>