When we first learned how to play the drums, we learned a few basic beats, and maybe a fill or two. But taking your drumming to the next level requires more.
Beginning drum students and experienced pros have one thing in common. Whether playing in the garage or on the biggest stages in the world, you still must practice.
Practice typically requires playing with other band members. But maybe their schedule doesn’t work with yours. Or, maybe the musicians you can find to work with aren’t good enough to push you and you’re no longer challenged.
Perhaps you get labeled as playing a certain style, and are unable to get a gig in another genre. Maybe you’re a Funk drummer who wants to play country. Or a Jazz player who wants to rock. Once you’re associated with a particular form of music, it can be quite difficult to be seen as anything else. Take Garth Brooks, for example. He was the biggest name in country music, but when he tried to put out a rock album his fans turned on him.
But what choice do you have? Well, the only other real option until now was to practice playing drums on your own. And as you know, this can be tedious or even downright boring. (Think about it… how many times can you play Wipeout or Zeppelin’s Rock & Roll without finally wanting to stick a drumstick in your eye?)
Were talking about using a play along CD. This is a fairly new tool; so let me explain what it is and how you can get the best use from it.
Play along CD is just a fancy name for a recording that’s missing one of the instrument tracks. Its like a Karaoke recording (although not nearly as cheesy sounding.) Karaoke removes the vocal track and allows you to sing along. A play along CD is the same thing, but with your instrument missing. This allows you to play your part of the song.
For example, if you’re a drummer, a drum practice CD contains all of the tracks except for the drums. You simply put the CD on, sit behind your kit, and keep the beat. It’s a great way to practice on your own. You can even get more creative than the original drummer and play something totally unique.
All drummers need practice. And you can accomplish some of this with a simple metronome and a drum kit. But a great drummer can do more than just keep a beat. Professional drummers must develop a strong sense of time, master meter, and be able to groove. It’s all about feeling. And you don’t get that without playing with others either live or on a play along CD. That is what will make you the one everyone calls for a gig.
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