Music has the incredible power to inspire, challenge, and elevate our abilities as musicians. Drummers, in particular, often find themselves seeking out songs that not only sound great but also help improve their drumming skills. Whether you’re a beginner looking to develop your rhythm or an experienced drummer aiming to hone your technique, there are certain songs that can serve as excellent practice material. In this article, we will explore the top 10 best drum songs that can significantly enhance your skills.
- “Back in Black” by AC/DC
Kicking off our list is the timeless classic “Back in Black” by AC/DC. This song features Phil Rudd’s steady and powerful drumming, making it a fantastic choice for drummers looking to improve their groove and rock drumming skills. Focus on nailing the consistent rhythm and precise timing for a great workout.
- “In the Air Tonight” by Phil Collins
“In the Air Tonight” is an iconic song that showcases Phil Collins’ incredible drumming abilities. The song’s dramatic drum fill, in particular, is famous and can be a challenging but rewarding piece to learn. Practicing this song will enhance your sense of dynamics and precision.
- “Rosanna” by Toto
Jeff Porcaro’s drumming in “Rosanna” is a masterclass in groove and precision. The intricate shuffle groove, ghost notes, and dynamic changes in this song make it an ideal choice for drummers aiming to improve their finesse and control.
- “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana
Dave Grohl’s drumming in “Smells Like Teen Spirit” is simple yet iconic. This song is perfect for beginners looking to build a strong foundation in rock drumming. Focus on maintaining a steady beat and powerful hits to capture the essence of this grunge classic.
- “Hot for Teacher” by Van Halen
Alex Van Halen’s drumming in “Hot for Teacher” is a showcase of technical prowess. This song is ideal for advanced drummers seeking to improve their double bass pedal and drum solo skills. It’s a challenging track that will push your abilities to the limit.
- “La Villa Strangiato” by Rush
Rush’s Neil Peart is known for his virtuoso drumming, and “La Villa Strangiato” is a testament to his talent. This instrumental piece is a journey through complex time signatures and intricate drum patterns. It’s perfect for drummers looking to expand their progressive drumming abilities.
- “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder
“Superstition” features the legendary Stevie Wonder on drums, and the funky groove is infectious. This song is an excellent choice for drummers who want to work on their funk and pocket-playing skills. Learning to lock in with the rhythm section is key here.
- “YYZ” by Rush
Another Rush classic, “YYZ” is a drumming masterpiece that will challenge your coordination, speed, and precision. Neil Peart’s drumming on this instrumental track is a drumming clinic, making it a fantastic choice for advanced drummers looking to push their boundaries.
- “The Ocean” by Led Zeppelin
John Bonham’s drumming in “The Ocean” exemplifies his powerful and dynamic style. This song is great for intermediate drummers aiming to improve their rock drumming skills, especially in terms of groove and fills.
- “My Hero” by Foo Fighters
Dave Grohl returns to our list with “My Hero” by the Foo Fighters. This song offers an opportunity for drummers to work on their dynamics and transitions between different sections. Grohl’s drumming here perfectly complements the song’s emotional intensity.
Conclusion
These top 10 drum songs offer a diverse range of challenges for drummers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to build a strong foundation or an advanced drummer seeking to push your boundaries, these songs provide valuable opportunities to improve your skills. Remember, practice makes perfect, so take the time to dissect these tracks, focus on the nuances, and, most importantly, have fun while enhancing your drumming abilities. With dedication and perseverance, you’ll find yourself becoming a better drummer with each beat.
