A way to apply ideas and exercises in a musical setting is to play along with songs. Using the metronome and studying drum books is essential during your practice sessions, but in the end, you should also focus on playing music.
I’m glad to share a playlist of 50 songs without drums, including classic songs and hidden gems for various styles, from rock to pop, blues, and jazz. This selection is a great way to experiment with your ideas and increase creativity by adding drum parts. The playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. Share it with your friends, follow me, and subscribe to my channel if you find it useful; it’s a way to support my research and selection work.
For example, “Life by the Drop” by Stevie Ray Vaughan is a perfect song for working on shuffle rhythms. On “Daydreaming” by Radiohead, you can play some 3/4 jazz-waltz stuff. You can experiment with brushes or hot rods for a unique touch on acoustic songs. Unleash your creativity and have fun!
Notes: Some songs might not be available in some countries. Muddy Waters’ “Still A Fool” features solely the bass drum. “What Went Wrong” by Blink-182 is not on Spotify and has been replaced with “At The Door” by The Strokes.
For more playlists, take a look at my collections focused on specific genres, grooves, and drummers: 20 Classic Songs for Beginner Drummers, Shuffle Grooves, Jazz Grooves, One-Handed Hi-Hat 16th Notes, Odd Time Signatures, Brazilian Songs Collection (Samba, Partido Alto, Bossa Nova), Jeff Porcaro Shuffle Groove Collection, Vinnie Colaiuta Grooves Collection, and Steve Gadd Grooves Collection. To access the playlists, visit: https://bit.ly/drum-playlists
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