Few drum parts are as instantly recognizable as “Africa” by Toto, and much of that magic comes from Jeff Porcaro’s unique ability to blend precision, feel, and musical restraint. Released in 1982 as part of the acclaimed album Toto IV, the song features one of the most studied grooves in pop and rock history … More Drum Shorts: Toto – Africa (Drum Fill Analysis) + Free Full Transcription
It’s time again for a recap! We’re closing another year full of positive notes, and I’m beyond grateful for your support and appreciation of my content. The blog reached one million total visits—a major milestone for a small and niche platform. This year’s stats exceeded those of the previous year, with over 216,000 views … More 2025 Recap
Rush’s 1984 album Grace Under Pressure continued the band’s move into a slick, synthesizer-driven progressive rock sound. The album’s production was notably “glossy,” with very prominent keyboards. Its opener track, “Distant Early Warning,” exemplifies this blend: an up-tempo rock anthem driven by swirling synth … More Neil Peart: Rush – Distant Early Warning (Full Drum Transcription)
Black Friday 2025 is here! Get 20% off all my drum sheet music, transcriptions, and eBooks. This exclusive deal is available until December 2 for unlimited purchases at Francis’ Drumming Store. Unlock 120+ drumming resources with the discount code drumdeals at checkout. Don’t miss this chance; prices will increase after this … More Black Friday 2025 Kickoff!
Toto’s 1988 album The Seventh One was celebrated as the best-received since the acclaimed Toto IV. On this album, “These Chains” stands out as a midtempo pop-rock song, featuring a 4/4 captivating groove and lush guitar layers. This foundation gives the song a classy, smooth rhythm. Building on this, Jeff Porcaro’s drumming is remarkable … More Jeff Porcaro: Toto – These Chains (Full Drum Transcription)
Last month, we analyzed the drum grooves of “Cissy Strut” by The Meters in our Drum Shorts series. Now I’m thrilled to share the complete drum transcription of the iconic funk tune featuring Joseph “Zigaboo” Modeliste on drums, for those who want to study all the groove variations, embellishments, and musical fills. The drum transcription … More The Meters – Cissy Strut (Drum Sheet Music)
Here are two comprehensive drum transcription bundles for drummers looking to study the work of renowned artists. The Neil Peart – Rush Drum Transcriptions Collection includes a book on Peart’s drumming style along with 9 transcriptions of classic Rush songs. The Complete Drum Transcriptions Collection features over 100 transcriptions and eBooks (all the products from … More Drum Transcription Bundles
“Jellybelly” by The Smashing Pumpkins is an unpredictable episode of energy and raw intensity from the band’s celebrated double album Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness (1995). With its crushing riffs, relentless drumming, and existential lyrics, the song is a powerful example of the band’s ability to blend heaviness with introspection. Jimmy Chamberlin’s drumming … More Jimmy Chamberlin: Smashing Pumpkins – Jellybelly (Drum Analysis + Full Transcription)
“Jellybelly” by The Smashing Pumpkins, from the album Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness (1995), is a blast of raw power and precision, standing as the most complex track of the band. The song showcases the explosive energy and intricate drumming of Jimmy Chamberlin. Known for his fusion-influenced style and technical proficiency, Chamberlin delivers a … More Smashing Pumpkins – Jellybelly (Drum Sheet Music)
The live performance of Joshua Redman, Brad Mehldau, Christian McBride, and Brian Blade at the Falcon (in New York’s Hudson Valley) is the finest example of jazz at its pinnacle. This live version of the show-opener tune “Long Gone” showcases the quartet’s divine musical chemistry, with a free-flowing interplay between subtle introspection and dynamic intensity. … More Redman, Mehldau, McBride, Blade – Long Gone (Live at The Falcon) – Drum Sheet Music
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