Francis' Drumming Blog

The Afro-Cuban 6/8 rhythm embodies the heartbeat of a rich and diverse cultural heritage, transcending the boundaries of geography and time. Its incorporation on the drumset opens doors for new rhythms involving coordination, independence, and polyrhythms. In the following two videos, I show you some ideas:

• Moving the left hand around the drumset to create melodic counter-rhythms.
• Adding a snare drum backbeat in a half-time feel.
• Playing different open/closed left foot hi-hat ostinatos.
• Moving the right-hand bell pattern to the ride cymbal, playing the backbeat on 2 & 4 (a sort of hybrid shuffle).

Check out my previous articles to know more and deepen your understanding of Afro-Cuban 6/8. You’ll discover Ted Reed’s Syncopation interpretations, funk/rock adaptations, and left foot clave application. Expand your knowledge with these recommended books: Afro-Cuban Rhythms for Drumset by Frank Malabe and Bob Weiner and The Essence of Afro-Cuban Percussion & Drum Set by Ed Uribe. Elevate your drumming!