3 Things All Beginner Drummers Should Focus On

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  • Опубліковано 30 січ 2025

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  • @alexwalker67
    @alexwalker67 6 років тому +817

    An exercise I get my students of all instruments to improve their timing is to walk around with their iPods. They walk to the beat of a chosen song, not too fast, not too slow. At a random point they pause the music but keep walking at the same speed. When they restart the music they *should* still be in time if they have a good sense of timing. Greetings from the UK.

    • @rskalisky
      @rskalisky 6 років тому +31

      I call it my "pedestrian" beat exercise, been doing for years.

    • @StephenTaylorDrums
      @StephenTaylorDrums  6 років тому +54

      Alex Walker great exercise

    • @RockOn78
      @RockOn78 6 років тому +8

      Great tip, agreed. When I was younger, I’d try the next level exercise. Drive home listening to the radio, find a fun song, and lock into it. Nod your head to the tune (or whatever). When u get home, turn off the car, KEEP NODDING, go inside, turn on the radio...are you still in time? (Still not a pro at this one...but it’s fun).

    • @bradharris720
      @bradharris720 5 років тому +1

      Alex Walker Alex when they hit play they will not be in time again, dipshit.

    • @Durwood71
      @Durwood71 5 років тому +16

      Instead of pausing, it would be more effective to simply mute the sound. That way the song will keep playing and the beat will stay the same. Otherwise, the timing will be off depending on when they stop and restart the music.

  • @RU-HDD-4-HVN
    @RU-HDD-4-HVN 6 років тому +804

    3-5 Things All Beginner Drummers Should Focus On
    1. Being on time.......
    2. Keeping good time.......
    3. Having a good time.......
    4. Knowing when it's time to go home.......
    5. Bonus: Knowing your times tables, fractions and how to count to at least four.......

  • @bonnieking5493
    @bonnieking5493 3 роки тому +93

    I am a 64 year old retired elementary school music teacher who always wanted to play drums. I just ordered my first drum set and am using your videos to prepare for their arrival next week. I love your philosophy and approach to teaching the drums. Having fun and using music along with playing.

  • @genewilliams617
    @genewilliams617 6 років тому +1220

    Don't practice until you get it right. Practice until you can't get it wrong.
    Not my saying.

    • @StephenTaylorDrums
      @StephenTaylorDrums  6 років тому +67

      100% agree

    • @tyagu3107
      @tyagu3107 6 років тому +17

      How to get it right without any practice?

    • @tkdkerry
      @tkdkerry 6 років тому +9

      Frequently stated as the difference between an amateur and a professional.

    • @ttroyscarrlett
      @ttroyscarrlett 6 років тому +4

      @@tyagu3107 impossible

    • @thenite187
      @thenite187 6 років тому +14

      Perhaps the less-deep thinkers might understand more if you added the word "just" to the first sentence. "Don't 'just' practice until you get it right, practice until you can't get it wrong."

  • @jamesmiddleton8335
    @jamesmiddleton8335 4 роки тому +56

    When starting am instrument i always say the same thing, pick a somg you love and learn it the whole way through, when you get stuck, thats what you work on. If you know your favourite song, you generally will practise more. In the very beginning you have to learn what you find fun, deal with groove and metronomes after because ive tried teaching people with a metronome and stuff but most of them give up. People who know their favorite song tend to give up less. Your first task as a teacher is to make your student love music, as soon as they love music they will teach themselves, then you can work on their weaknesses with them

    • @SightUnseen555
      @SightUnseen555 4 роки тому +14

      Oh no, my favorite songs are all progressive and power metal like Dream Theater and Nightwish. This is going to end poorly.... lol.

    • @geophrey7680
      @geophrey7680 4 роки тому +1

      @@SightUnseen555 greater long term goals

    • @muzikjay
      @muzikjay 4 роки тому +3

      100% agree. I play drums, guitar, and piano and this has been true with every instrument I’ve learned. Fun comes first

    • @DannySullivanMusic
      @DannySullivanMusic 4 роки тому +1

      I am greatly glad there's somebody who discerns what's correct

  • @Chris-0113
    @Chris-0113 6 років тому +216

    Lesson start: 2:04

  • @Godzukidan
    @Godzukidan 5 років тому +215

    At age 51 I just started playing drums 4 days ago and this info really helps, thanks! 😎🥁

    • @StephenTaylorDrums
      @StephenTaylorDrums  5 років тому +33

      Welcome to the fam! 👊🏻🥁

    • @flyersfanpei
      @flyersfanpei 5 років тому +17

      I am 45 and just started! Welcome! Best advice I've gotten yet is to just put on some music and play along with it. If you mess up, the music continues and you can jump in when you feel comfortable and can rewind if you need to. I am pairing that with my lessons and WOW I have seen some major improvement on things. Also I am moving my kit around to suit me best...what feels best for me and is still efficient. Good luck with your learning. I am having a blast and have done some things wrong, but improving! Cheers!

    • @abcddcba09
      @abcddcba09 5 років тому +6

      @Godzukidan and @flyersfanpei, thank you both. I'm 31 years old and have been considering to start playing drums, but was afraid that it might have been too late to start and get to a good level at any point in the future. You guys inspired me that it's never too late! Thank you!

    • @MrAngryTwinkie
      @MrAngryTwinkie 5 років тому +12

      37 and starting today!

    • @scottnewland5523
      @scottnewland5523 5 років тому +12

      Great! I am 55 and just started. I play guitar but have always wanted to learn the drums.

  • @MrBuzzzzz
    @MrBuzzzzz Рік тому +7

    I just started teaching drum basics to a few people and I can say for sure that it is the transitions that give most people the most trouble in the beginning. As soon as they do a fill, something goes wrong trying to get back to their beat. I remember having the same issue too. Great video, nice kit.

  • @kimberlyfelton9655
    @kimberlyfelton9655 4 роки тому +37

    I am a 51 year old woman that is fixing to start lessons. I have loved Drums since I was 12. I hope to be good at it. Thanks for the lessons.

    • @dallasonfire604
      @dallasonfire604 3 роки тому

      Do it! You might love it and have a passion to do for the rest of your life:)

    • @isharee3039
      @isharee3039 2 роки тому

      How’s it going?!

    • @bekind3050
      @bekind3050 2 роки тому

      I'm 46. Started my first lesson yesterday. I love it. Bought my E-drum Alexis Nitro today.

    • @chetthebee1322
      @chetthebee1322 Рік тому

      I'm 55 and finally learning the drums.

  • @MsGandhi0
    @MsGandhi0 6 років тому +12

    The thing I seem to struggle with most is maintaining groove and timing through and after transitions.
    This video was super beneficial to hear the difference!

  • @emilmakin1401
    @emilmakin1401 3 роки тому +4

    I am 73 and just got a real nice drum kit and I am loving your channel. I tried someone else and could not get into their learning style. You are doing great. I have always wanted to learn. I am loving your cymbals. I have to have a set like that. Thanks for what you do.

  • @plainmainaccount5554
    @plainmainaccount5554 6 років тому +31

    I’ve been playing drums in my church youth band since 2016, and when I first started I sounded like the example you showed of bad timing lol. The problem is I don’t have a drum set and couldn’t/can’t really afford one atm, so the only time behind a set I got was Mondays and Wednesdays, but we had to go through the songs and that’s it. I didn’t have much extra time to practice. Eventually I got there early and stayed a bit late on those two days, and I finally had time to really work on the fundamentals. I’m not perfect, but I definitely have improved.

    • @sirjanagautam4704
      @sirjanagautam4704 5 років тому +9

      You can actually practice drumming without drums :)

    • @eboyeman8457
      @eboyeman8457 4 роки тому +1

      @@sirjanagautam4704 how?

    • @jfvs1988
      @jfvs1988 3 роки тому +3

      @@eboyeman8457 practice pad, tap some subdivisions, play some grooves on some books
      You need to be more proactive and expect things to just fall in to your lap.
      You need to find yourself

  • @minisurfbanana
    @minisurfbanana 4 роки тому +26

    I’m about to start drumming...this lockdown has given me too much time. Ready to buy an Ekit

    • @keilathompson1826
      @keilathompson1826 4 роки тому +2

      been 8 months... did you end up getting into it? how's it going?

    • @DannySullivanMusic
      @DannySullivanMusic 4 роки тому

      It makes me really ecstatic there are a few people that know what's real

    • @zakariamebrahtu1474
      @zakariamebrahtu1474 3 роки тому

      Same I actually got one and it’s going pretty well (been 7 months for me) I’m self taught tho so I’m certain I’m doing some things wrong :/

    • @rd5184
      @rd5184 3 роки тому

      How was drumming gone for u

  • @tomjones2348
    @tomjones2348 2 роки тому +2

    I'm 65, am a classical pianist, violinist, and jazz guitarist for decades. My wife just got her first drum set 2 days ago, so I'm learning to play them to help her learn. This presentation is very helpful. I've always loved the drums, even got the Dave Weckl sticks and snare workout 15 years ago just to improve my guitar timing. Oh.....and my hat is off to you, Stephan, for being able to imitate playing "out of the groove". It's so easy to hear the difference when you get back in the pocket.

  • @patriciabaldwin3888
    @patriciabaldwin3888 6 років тому +24

    Great lesson! I'm going to go practice now :) My struggle is really transitions....I'm aware of it and i know when it's happening....grrrrr. Took up the drums at age 50...never too late I say! Thanks again.

    • @jamescarey5617
      @jamescarey5617 5 років тому +1

      I hear ya... I haven't sat behind a kit in over 10 years. I wasn't a drummer, I was a guitar player. But I would always mess around with certain beats, like the beginning of "we're not gonna take it" by twisted sister.... lol...
      Now I'm 45 and just bought myself my first drum set.
      Nice to see someone try something new like picking up an instrument. Hope you're getting some good practices in. I'm trying. I'm a truck driver, so it's pretty tough for me to get behind the kit every day. But I'm trying...

    • @TheRimshotDrummer
      @TheRimshotDrummer 4 роки тому

      That is great! How is it going now after 1 year? Are you transitioning better now?

  • @corypinkowski7325
    @corypinkowski7325 6 років тому +16

    Thanks man I'm 28 and trying to learn. I appreciate your help man.

  • @mathiashls
    @mathiashls 5 років тому +432

    When the drummer is so good he struggle to play out of tempo

    • @joeycastro.1
      @joeycastro.1 4 роки тому +5

      HAHAHA FOR REAL

    • @DannySullivanMusic
      @DannySullivanMusic 4 роки тому +4

      excellent somebody aside from myself recognizes the truth

    • @brendanash2844
      @brendanash2844 3 роки тому +1

      Primus seems out of tempo to most, but it really isn't.

    • @brendanash2844
      @brendanash2844 3 роки тому +1

      Primus seems out of tempo to many, but isn't.

    • @straizys
      @straizys 3 роки тому

      actually he did but too much.. he could show less of a difference not such anecdotal difference

  • @garyh4458
    @garyh4458 5 років тому +13

    When I was in the military we marched to the point where even when we weren't marching, if a few of us were walking somewhere we would be in step, even when we tried not to be. I guess learning to keep time in drums is similar.

    • @DannySullivanMusic
      @DannySullivanMusic 4 роки тому +2

      It's magnificent someone other than me notices what's up

  • @eagleeyeproductions2317
    @eagleeyeproductions2317 5 років тому +3

    This is excellent advice. As a novice, self taught drummer, I have always struggled with transitions more than the other two (timing, groove). I think it is easy to over anticipate the transition and as you said "cheat" your way through it. Thanks for the tips, great stuff!

  • @NortiWhips
    @NortiWhips 4 роки тому +2

    Straight up resonate with these problems. It's something I know I desperately need to focus on. Especially transitioning between drum fills, I constantly find myself offbeat coming from the fill. Good to know it's a common problem for beginners

  • @langadubazana
    @langadubazana 6 років тому +12

    After 7 years and I'm still working on this! For me it's time and transitions, it's still kind of a crutch so for now I've stripped down on busy fills and bells and whistles. Getting better. Thank you Mr Taylor.

    • @StephenTaylorDrums
      @StephenTaylorDrums  6 років тому +1

      We're all just a work in progress...and you're more than welcome my friend

    • @TheRimshotDrummer
      @TheRimshotDrummer 4 роки тому

      How are you doing now, one year out?

  • @nelsonvienneau7348
    @nelsonvienneau7348 2 роки тому

    first time drumming anything at 50 yrs of age, bought a mapex tornado beginner drum kit,
    your videos are gona be of great help, thanks!!!

  • @sequences8942
    @sequences8942 6 років тому +6

    Even without a tick, my instructor told me I have great time when I started. I decided to add a tick to my practice anyway, and he said I got even better. Getting the timing right feels so good I can't believe people don't work on it first.

  • @flyme2themoon720
    @flyme2themoon720 4 роки тому

    Im a guitar player who started playing at 6 years old and now 42 and decided to sit and play my drummers kit one day and now im hooked..I realized that my pick hand was always emulating drum beats that were in me naturally.it was really cool to sit down and I started playing drum beats that were fitting perfectly over songs ive written over the years..im not saying I played them well on the drums but everything came together and always wondered why whatever drummer I was playing was never quite bringing out the overall feel(groove)as you were saying...my guitar style is very percussive and rhythmic along the lines of Nuno Bettencourts style..its amazing how much ive grown as a musician by getting behind the drums..im going to start from the basics because my rythums seem to be a in a timing that alot of drummers seem to struggle with when following what I write..I hear that my timing falls in and out of diffent time signatures but always lands back where they should..is that an issue im having or not finding the right drummer for what I do?

  • @footnotedrummer
    @footnotedrummer 6 років тому +8

    You have likely covered this in one of your exercises, but as a young self taught drummer (35+ years ago)... one the biggest turning points for me was learning how to double tap my kick in double time, while riding a consistent time on the hats. Once I got that down... things just started to skyrocket for me. If you've not done this lesson... I'd highly recommend it.
    Thanks for your lessons. A drummer should never stop learning, and any outside influence that someone may get, can alter the way you approach things. Keep it up. Stephen!

  • @SpeakerBuilder
    @SpeakerBuilder 2 роки тому +1

    So glad to hear you start off with timing, it is the MOST important skill set, one I had to discover and develop on my own, and NO ONE teacher ever told me that, or had me work on it!

  • @connortannahill109
    @connortannahill109 4 роки тому +3

    I need to improve transitions for sure. As well as playing quarter Notes with the high hat and keeping time when there's lots of kicks. I'm a guitar player starting to learn drums... and I don't want to stop, I'll be checking out every new video 🤘

    • @henrikbergman4055
      @henrikbergman4055 3 роки тому

      Wonder if this is a thing for musicians that play other instruments. I play sax and have started playing drums for fun and for improving time and I have extact the same issues as you described.

  • @republicsentinel7196
    @republicsentinel7196 4 роки тому +1

    I've only been playing 6 months but I've played guitar for 35 years so I understand music and timing but personally, I'm struggling with all 3. I'm not the least bit discouraged but I'm still finding the nuance of actually playing the drums and not just hitting them. These videos have been a huge help. Thank you!

  • @joey6139
    @joey6139 4 роки тому +6

    I played when I was a kid but havent played a full set for almost 14 years. Just bought a set and looking to get back into it. Wish me luck

    • @TheRimshotDrummer
      @TheRimshotDrummer 4 роки тому

      Good luck Joey! You got this!

    • @genewilliams617
      @genewilliams617 4 роки тому

      Give yourself time (no pun intended) to get back to YOU'RE groove. I'm 73 y.o. and started in 1962. Hopefully, you never stop learning. My email is "genewilliams9984@live.com". Contact me for a receipe with a parradiddle that is excellent, if I do say so myself.

  • @adamblevins1435
    @adamblevins1435 4 роки тому +1

    Love. It. I tell all of my students that I wish I had spent more time just practicing holding down a solid groove when I was younger. I love how you also mention transitions. That's something that many drummers neglect, but being able to switch seamlessly from groove to groove, as well as from groove to fill and back again, is as important as being able to hold down the groove by itself. I can always tell an inexperienced drummer because they almost always rush during fills, and have a tendency to end fills on the wrong beat. Thanks for the great video. Keep 'em coming!

  • @donwoodward7944
    @donwoodward7944 5 років тому +3

    Great video. I think the real problem is some drummers simply can't hear or tell that they have bad time. It's such an intangible thing. You just kind of have to know, and have that innate sense of what sounds right, and if you are in fact laying down a groove. If you posses that basic sense, then it becomes a matter of staying within your own technical abilities and working to improve them. A simple, rock solid groove is FAR superior than something technical that has bad time or loses the groove.

  • @antjones4633
    @antjones4633 Рік тому

    I am working with a student right now and he is struggling most with transitions. This was very helpful!

  • @mftwohill51
    @mftwohill51 6 років тому +3

    It is so good that people like Stephen take the time to teach us all their God given talents that took them years to perfect. Thanks so much for your online lessons, they are very inspirational. Love it.

  • @ericcrowe
    @ericcrowe Місяць тому

    I'm basically just starting. I started about a year or so ago, but life interrupts and I'm just starting back. I'm having trouble with all three, but I know with practice and patience it'll get easier. Limb Independence is also a tricky thing at the moment. Thank you for your videos.

  • @Devon523
    @Devon523 4 роки тому +4

    This is actually really helpful, at helping me know how to help my students. I’m new to teaching, so I can play, but conveying messages to and helping my students is challenging

  • @slestage5725
    @slestage5725 4 роки тому +1

    Thank you! I am a rhythm guitar player of over 40 years and I was recently asked to play drums in a local worship band. My son is actually a pro drummer but he lives 20 hours away from me. Seems I have the basic fundamentals nailed down but I am still a work in progress and this has helped me especially as I work on transitions. Thank you!🥁

  • @breadboy2712
    @breadboy2712 6 років тому +7

    I wish I had this advice given to me years ago. Follow Mr. Taylor's advice here and you'll be better off for it.
    One thing I would add is to record yourself at regular intervals. It is invaluable. Be prepared to honestly evaluate, and don't get discouraged!
    I think one of my greatest strengths as a musician is that I have learned to not get discouraged! Any problem with your, or my playing, can be overcome!

  • @beverlynelson6431
    @beverlynelson6431 5 років тому +2

    Even though I am a student of hand drums, congas mainly, I find your videos very helpful and applicable to hand drums. Smooth transitions is the skill I need to work on the most. I also watched your video "10 ways to tell if you are a good drummer". It was a cruel but necessary awakening. I'm not discouraged; I just have a long way to go. The journey's the thing. Thanks.

  • @wjb111
    @wjb111 6 років тому +9

    Transitions is my biggest challenge. Still consider myself a rookie/beginner after 2+ years. (59 y.o.)
    Great Video!!

    • @StephenTaylorDrums
      @StephenTaylorDrums  6 років тому

      They're so hard but so important

    • @edrivera5996
      @edrivera5996 6 років тому

      56 years old and just started, been taking lessons about 3 months now, and transition is my sticking point also.

    • @heckler73
      @heckler73 6 років тому

      @J DRUMS Wait a minute...your name is "J DRUMS", *A N D* you're a drummer?
      I would never have guessed it...

    • @watkinsmom1
      @watkinsmom1 6 років тому

      I just started lessons at 47! Something I've always wanted to do and am super excited! Just need to PRACTICE. I don't have my own set yet, that would help a ton.

    • @cldn4629
      @cldn4629 5 років тому

      @@watkinsmom1 I'm a self taught drummer. Been playing for two years now but have had a drum set for a year and half. Practicing with a set helps a ton👍😊

  • @jeffwaters2470
    @jeffwaters2470 6 років тому +1

    Just coming back after about 20 years. Having trouble with my transition coming back to the groove without losing time. For family and neighbors I have an 8 piece electric set. Gets the job done and thanks for all you do. Coming back but my time and transition are all over the place. I sound just like you on the open lick.

    • @StephenTaylorDrums
      @StephenTaylorDrums  6 років тому

      Jeff Waters welcome back to the fam! The good news is, you know where your problem is. Now just isolate it and fix it

  • @waynehughes3639
    @waynehughes3639 6 років тому +27

    Your examples of bad drumming were very enlightening.

  • @MattTofield
    @MattTofield Рік тому

    Stephen Taylor thanks for sharing your knowledge, I’m 60 and just bought my first drum set. Very excited to have found your channel.

  • @mnz0209
    @mnz0209 5 років тому +5

    Thank you I'm brand new to learning the drums. Your channel had really been helping me to practice effectively

    • @TheRimshotDrummer
      @TheRimshotDrummer 4 роки тому

      Michael, how are you doing now after 11 months?

    • @mnz0209
      @mnz0209 4 роки тому +1

      @@TheRimshotDrummer im doing good love to play

    • @TheRimshotDrummer
      @TheRimshotDrummer 4 роки тому

      @@mnz0209 That is great! I will also have learning resources available to help you if you need them. Have an amazing day.

  • @stevebarnes9694
    @stevebarnes9694 4 роки тому

    This guy is great......I am a beginner. Older beginner. Looked at ALL the channels for drums. The three that CLEARLY stand out are Drumeo /65Drum and Stephen Taylor. This guy is a GREAT teacher......and I mean great. Well done Stephen. You also spell Stephen correctly ;)

  • @KaptainKrypton
    @KaptainKrypton 6 років тому +3

    2:58 gave me an aneurysm. LOL. Fantastic video! Massively invaluable tips. This is the single greatest, practical and effective drum
    Channel on UA-cam. Bar none!

    • @StephenTaylorDrums
      @StephenTaylorDrums  6 років тому

      Lol, I do what I can to sound as bad as possible ;^)
      And thanks so much! So glad the channel helps that much

  • @JeroenvD1993
    @JeroenvD1993 4 роки тому +1

    Another good one would be to record your playing and listen it back!
    What I've discovered and was a big eye opener for me to develop a real strong sense of time keeping (next to practising to a click) was to record myself when playing, practice/live sessions, and then listen them back, carefully analyzing the tempo.
    This has really helped me develop a strong, real time sense of my time keeping. If you don't have this strongly developped, it is possible your ears might fool you when you're playing and then when listening back to a recording that might not sound at all as how you interpreted it in the moment.

  • @thescript_terhi6266
    @thescript_terhi6266 6 років тому +3

    Hands down transitions are my weak point. I’ve played around 2 yrs so I’m still very much a beginner. Thanks for a really helpful video Stephen!!

  • @infundere
    @infundere 6 років тому +1

    Hello, Stephen, I saw this week your video on 10 fills every drummer should know, and I've been trying to learn them by heart and I had today the opportunity to practice some of them and I felt very good for bringing something good to my small old rusty musical abilities set, and I want to thank you for that, keep it on!

  • @zohraishv
    @zohraishv 5 років тому +69

    Stephen: Which one do you struggle with the most? The timing, the groove, the transition?
    Me: Yes.

    • @DannySullivanMusic
      @DannySullivanMusic 4 роки тому

      It makes me really cheerful when there are people that sense what's what

  • @andrewjones5190
    @andrewjones5190 5 років тому +1

    I’ve just found you. I’m 47, been learning only 18 months and transitions kick my butt every time. Heeelllpppp from Australia!

    • @TheRimshotDrummer
      @TheRimshotDrummer 4 роки тому

      Hello Andrew Jones! How are you doing now after 11 months?

  • @Metronome-s2n
    @Metronome-s2n 6 років тому +107

    Transitions!!!! Nervousness approaching fill!!!

    • @StephenTaylorDrums
      @StephenTaylorDrums  6 років тому +14

      This was my biggest hang up for SO long

    • @blues61
      @blues61 6 років тому +8

      Funny thing, it's the same for guitar players. You're grooving along just fine with the basic rhythm or lick and then you've got to hit that turnaround or transition lick. Here comes that nervous tension. Thank g*d for a good drummer that gives you that lovely support so you can relax and be in the moment for that transition.

    • @dirtydave2691
      @dirtydave2691 6 років тому +4

      @@blues61 That's why I practice fills so they go smooth. As beginners we tend to over complicate a fill...........I call it the "Peart" syndrome. We can't all play like him, but we can be smooth. Think of one of your favorite rock songs.......I like early Van Halen and Alex fills are not too complicated in their first couple of albums.

    • @howtoteachscience
      @howtoteachscience 5 років тому +1

      I freakin HATE that fear. It's the worst!! I really hope I outgrow it someday.

    • @karenhanania9014
      @karenhanania9014 5 років тому

      Nervousness coming out of fills!

  • @yourstrulytonydollar4733
    @yourstrulytonydollar4733 2 роки тому

    6:56 - 7:20 successfully failing. Lol
    Been playing on and off (more off) for about 20yrs and Just got my 1st real drumset yesterday. Im amped up!!! My 7 yo wants to learn too. He sat and watched this and the "how to set up" vid with me. Thanks for theses tutorials. Im psyched for the future! 🤟🤘✌

  • @ILikeWafflz
    @ILikeWafflz 6 років тому +150

    You play "deliberately bad" drums pretty convincingly: it can be a little difficult to train so much to be right on time and then purposefully play in bad time _and_ sound like it's unintentional.

    • @StephenTaylorDrums
      @StephenTaylorDrums  6 років тому +15

      lol

    • @BlackHawk2029
      @BlackHawk2029 6 років тому +15

      That's actually a huge compliment. My last band had a tune that ended in falling apart into a chaotic mess. Sort of a "trash can" ending with extra trash. And it was SUPER difficult to get it to sound convincing.

    • @p4thoma
      @p4thoma 6 років тому

      ILikeWafflz I said the exact same thing!!

    • @patrickcostello4146
      @patrickcostello4146 6 років тому

      was just gonna say.

    • @Therealozzy47
      @Therealozzy47 6 років тому +3

      I was thinking that as well.....its hard to suck on purpose.

  • @Humankindperson
    @Humankindperson Рік тому

    Thankyou for your tips ! Just set up our 1st drum set." For my son"Super fun can't wait to learn some songs

  • @elduderino123be
    @elduderino123be 5 років тому +3

    I like your lessons a lot mate, must be hella difficult for you to play out of time and mess up those fills

  • @beerculees1
    @beerculees1 4 роки тому

    I played for about 10 years. Just bought an alesis.havent played in about 15 years. Being honest and starting from scratch. Gonna follow your lessons, starting with playing to a click. Back to all basics. Going to build good practice habits. Never knew how to practice in the past. Thank you for the time and work you're putting out there.

  • @extromous
    @extromous 5 років тому +7

    'It's about Time, Time, Time!' ...and here's what I have to say about Time... 'you have to love the space in between your notes more than you love what you're playing'. Billy Ward. /;¬,

  • @frederickchubay9657
    @frederickchubay9657 4 роки тому +1

    I have been playing for a little less than a month. Your content and methods of explaining concepts are spot on. This morning, as I played Day 20 of 30 Days To Better Doubles I found it productive to focus on timing and for example, the transition from single stroke sixteenth notes to double stroke sixteenths, as found in Check Yoself.

  • @bash6519
    @bash6519 5 років тому +10

    “You probably laughed and said I sound like that”. LOL I said and did that exact phrase

    • @DannySullivanMusic
      @DannySullivanMusic 4 роки тому

      very fabulous there's somebody who understands what's real

  • @juanmallafre3754
    @juanmallafre3754 Рік тому

    Im an adult beginner and I find your videos very helpful. Thank you!

  • @75lordfisch
    @75lordfisch 4 роки тому +12

    i just got a drum yesterday, i've been a bass player for 20+ years, i know what needs to be done, i'm just having a hard time with controlling each limb independently so my timing suffers a lot..i wouldn't want to play bass with me....

  • @dmowolfenspeedster
    @dmowolfenspeedster 4 роки тому +1

    My timing, groove, and transitions are really awful. And I'm embarrassed to admit that I was brazen enough to play many gigs with a band and had no idea how bad I was. My teacher has me working through The New Breed, it is exposing my weaknesses and making clear what I need to work out. Love your channel, thanks for sharing all of these great insights on drumming.

  • @AzazelsChamber
    @AzazelsChamber 4 роки тому +15

    I'm trying to learn about drums cuz I wanna play them and youtube gives me an ad asking "do you wanna play the guitar" 🤦‍♀️

    • @shhs1227
      @shhs1227 4 роки тому

      how's the drumming going

    • @flyme2themoon720
      @flyme2themoon720 4 роки тому

      Ive played guitar40 years..start with the drums.i wish I had.it will make you a better guitar player..theres always the good drummer jokes until I got behind a kit after all these years and understood the importance of what they do

  • @hotrodofsalem
    @hotrodofsalem 5 років тому

    Thank you for the lessons i got work to do now. I have been drumming for six years with an Xbox 360 and rock band but with real drums i know funny rite? im not good at all but never had a lesson and this has shed some light for me! Thank you ill get back with you when i get these down a little better!

  • @clovisgeigers7020
    @clovisgeigers7020 5 років тому +5

    Drums are wonderful. :D

  • @collinausbury
    @collinausbury 4 роки тому +1

    Your lessons feels like we're hanging out. Thank you. Working on my fills and timing.

  • @ddGrandahl
    @ddGrandahl 6 років тому +32

    It's tough trying to watch this video without grinding my teeth. Good god off-tempo fills sound horrible lmao

    • @hansgrueber8169
      @hansgrueber8169 6 років тому +2

      Off tempo fills are where its at!!, true genius. The convention of time is old news.

    • @StephenTaylorDrums
      @StephenTaylorDrums  6 років тому +3

      Lol...funny thing is, we all sounded like that at one time

    • @StephenTaylorDrums
      @StephenTaylorDrums  6 років тому +4

      I agree with you...but before we work on playing off time fills, we should be able to play IN time. That's something that is a building block for everything else.

    • @hansgrueber8169
      @hansgrueber8169 6 років тому

      I am in total agreement with everything here, my original statement needed to be in the sarcasm font (if there is one), lol.

  • @johncspine2787
    @johncspine2787 4 роки тому

    Played pro sym brass decades. I learned virtually everything I ever needed about tempo from my college wind ensemble director..subdivision, subdivision, and subdivision. Plus internalizing it. You’d be amazed at how some pros still don’t “have their antennas up.” You must master this before playing with others. Know when to take the beat from others, when to play out and take charge, when to shut up and let someone’s solo be heard. You master the fundamentals so your attention can be expanded to what every person around you is doing, not worried about your own technique.

  • @j666srothschild9
    @j666srothschild9 5 років тому +3

    you have just focus on blast beats and heel toe/doubble bass with metronome

  • @thephysiopractor
    @thephysiopractor 5 років тому +3

    Just starting out and there's so much to practice didn't know what to focus on. This help, thanks!

  • @milesaugust4413
    @milesaugust4413 5 років тому +3

    RIP NEIL PEART aka Drum Phil aka the Master aka The Professor aka Pratt aka The GOAT.

  • @MalikethTheBlackBlade1
    @MalikethTheBlackBlade1 2 роки тому

    Just ordered my first e drum kit yesterday. Excited to start!

  • @lucyferina
    @lucyferina 3 роки тому +3

    I never had issues with timing even when I started, I also never have practiced, I don't like rudiments, I just play along but yet manage to have groove...we all learn differently

    • @K3NH
      @K3NH 3 роки тому

      :D. Is there a hate button?

  • @SGTRitacca
    @SGTRitacca 5 років тому +1

    i just started playing a week ago and love it. I have the bad timing problem currently, but it is getting better. you're video are pretty good, appreciate your time.

  • @lastcall9998
    @lastcall9998 6 років тому +9

    I thought the claps were gonna be sarcastic... hahaha, little did I know I was right, but in a different way... indeed! ;)

  • @Ticonderous1
    @Ticonderous1 6 років тому

    Hey brother ... i have been drumming 20+ years and am sitting here 2.10am (down in Oz) watching this beginner video ... just love to soak up all you teach , as a mainly self taught drummer i am still open to learning , even after all these years ...Awesome for you to get over 100k subs as well mate.. well deserved .. i think you had less than 20k when i found yr channel ...

  • @StephenTaylorDrums
    @StephenTaylorDrums  6 років тому +22

    *Subscribe to my channel or I'll steal your cymbals:* bit.ly/2AyH1Fb
    *5 Drum Fills That WORK: **ua-cam.com/video/iji3N5qGW58/v-deo.html*
    *It's tough these days when you are a beginner drummer...there is SO MUCH information out there. How do we know what we need to focus on in our drumming? What is the most important? What really doesn't matter.*
    *Here are 3 areas that all beginner drummers should focus on. These are not cool licks...they're not crazy beats...they are time tested and proven big picture items that will have you up and playing along to your favorite songs in no time. They're not easy and you won't master them overnight. But focusing on these items in your drum practice time will put you well ahead of other players. Focusing on these 3 items is the reason I was able to start playing professionally at the age of 16. When you're on the gig, NO ONE CARES whether you can play that cool, slick sextupletratamcueinsanesetthedrumsonfire fill. They care that you can play good time, make the music feel good, and get from point A to point B on the drums without screwing it up.*
    *Real talk. But these will give you real results when playing actual music.*
    *Leave a comment and let me know which one of these you struggle with the most!*
    *Here's some other beginner drum lessons in this series:*
    *Your First Drum Lesson:* ua-cam.com/video/plH20pMLxiA/v-deo.html
    *Your First Drum Fill:* ua-cam.com/video/hM1xB6gXMpA/v-deo.html
    *How To Set Up Your Drums Correctly (3 Tips):* ua-cam.com/video/ZMMcmVChfAs/v-deo.html

    • @maximusheronimus23980
      @maximusheronimus23980 6 років тому

      i'm a hobby drummer, and i'm still on 4/4 beats, but i'm trying to be as groovy and have the best timing possible....

    • @xertia1
      @xertia1 6 років тому

      Transitions has always been my weakness, getting better over time though. Doesn't help only playing now and then for the fun of it though!

    • @jeanniecummings5176
      @jeanniecummings5176 6 років тому

      I play guitar and bass and write lyrics always with a full band and my drummers were always good now im trying to make my own music with no other players. I really really suck at drums im just using a drum pad off a phone app but just this little bit you have shown was a great help thank you i can repay by subscribing and hitting that like button thanks again

    • @StephenTaylorDrums
      @StephenTaylorDrums  6 років тому

      Jeannie Cummings so glad it helped Jeannie!

  • @BigDaddyNC734
    @BigDaddyNC734 5 років тому +1

    I'm primarily a guitar and bass player, so groove seems to be a relatively strong point for me. Where I struggle is in the transitions. With a lot of practice I have improved those transitions, but there is still plenty of road to travel. Good thing I'm having fun with it.
    Thanks for the doing these videos. Keep up the good work!

  • @FanaticDrummer
    @FanaticDrummer 6 років тому +60

    Easy:
    1: Gear
    2: Gospel Chops
    3: More gear
    2018 Drummers 😂

    • @Diatonic5th
      @Diatonic5th 6 років тому +7

      lol! *2018 Drummers:*
      1. Every beat and fill must be linear.
      2. Be sure to overplay every song by using a ton of triplet feel ghost notes.
      3. Repeat #1 & #2.

    • @mgates9139
      @mgates9139 6 років тому +1

      Don't forgot.. blast beats on EVERY song

    • @TheStudioDrummer
      @TheStudioDrummer 6 років тому

      lol!

    • @tanishaalbert5595
      @tanishaalbert5595 5 років тому

      Yes

    • @tanishaalbert5595
      @tanishaalbert5595 5 років тому

      @@Diatonic5th h

  • @corienineboom
    @corienineboom 5 років тому +2

    I am so amazed. Beginner drummer here, I definitely need these tips!!! God bless you for this!

    • @TheRimshotDrummer
      @TheRimshotDrummer 4 роки тому +1

      Hi Corie! How are you doing one year later?

    • @corienineboom
      @corienineboom 4 роки тому +1

      Hey, man!! Unfortunately, we had to leave the church that I was drumming at, and since then I’ve become a stay at home mom to 3 boys instead of 2, so I’ve got my hands full 99% of the time! 😁 I want to pick it back up one day when I’m not so busy! Thanks for checking!

    • @TheRimshotDrummer
      @TheRimshotDrummer 4 роки тому +1

      @@corienineboom You are welcome! Sorry you had to leave your church. Congrats on the boys. Let's keep in touch. I would love to be a part of your coming back to drumming when your schedule allows. I just started a channel to support beginner and intermediate drummers. Chat with you later.

    • @corienineboom
      @corienineboom 4 роки тому +1

      Sounds great! Thank you!

  • @shadowhenge7118
    @shadowhenge7118 5 років тому +5

    You know you're good when you've gone full circle enough to fake playing bad, heh.

    • @shhs1227
      @shhs1227 4 роки тому

      Not just that but he fakes it well lol truly full circle

  • @Subilon
    @Subilon 8 місяців тому

    Thanks Stephen for your channel it will help with my drum students

  • @NoahONilsson
    @NoahONilsson 6 років тому +5

    What would you define as a beginner drummer?

    • @sethpooser5291
      @sethpooser5291 6 років тому +7

      We're all beginners if you think about it. Am I right?

    • @auralitegames3367
      @auralitegames3367 6 років тому +1

      Probably just starting out

    • @EthanLaBounty
      @EthanLaBounty 6 років тому +2

      I suppose it would be someone lacking or just brushing the important things that he talked about in the video like groove, timing etc.

    • @tyagu3107
      @tyagu3107 6 років тому

      .. is it that hard to define who are the beginners?

    • @humanjohn3793
      @humanjohn3793 6 років тому +3

      @deadboy600 He's right though. Every drummer can improve.
      You can be the best metal drummer in the world and not be able to play a jazz beat. Hence, you're a beginner to jazz.
      You can play Latin incredibly well but not know how to play to a rock song. Making you a beginner to rock.
      You can know every style in the world but your band could play an acoustic show and require you to pick up a tambourine. Making you a beginner to auxiliary percussion.
      You can play fast and heavy but not know how to play a five stroke roll or a flam. Making you a beginner to rudiments.
      You can be the most technical drummer in the world but start playing in a band that doesn't need you to go all out. Making you a beginner in matching the music you're playing to.
      I can go on. The point is, you can think you're good and that there's nothing left for you to learn but there will always be something for you to learn if you apply yourself. Take a chill pill every once in a while.

  • @JasonBrown033
    @JasonBrown033 5 років тому

    Well done Stephen! Good lesson. I'll be sharing this video with another guy that's a beginner and exploring the drums...

    • @TheRimshotDrummer
      @TheRimshotDrummer 4 роки тому

      Jason Brown, How are you and your friend coming along on the drums? I am new to UA-cam and have videos to help beginner drummers too. Use my channel in addition to this one. between the two, you will be rocking in no time. Stephen has really good stuff.

  • @MECHAMUSO
    @MECHAMUSO 5 років тому +11

    Someone should forward this video to Lars Ulrich. These are the 3 things he has trouble with! 😂

  • @chrisheadland4835
    @chrisheadland4835 5 років тому

    Excellent intro to a total newbie! Thanks the pointers will be sure to check out your resources :)

  • @simonblack3910
    @simonblack3910 6 років тому +20

    Your points are well made. But for god sakes, like every other instructional UA-cam video you guys all do the same thing. Here's what it is:
    1. One finds oneself scrolling through UA-cam for good information
    2. By sheer luck, you come across a video that you think should be worth viewing, so you click on it.
    3. The video starts with the instructor restating the videos title "Hey folks, here's the three things every drummer should focus on"
    4. And then it's 10 minutes of disclaimers, every other video you offer, what you're going to get to at the end of the video, why you found the video in the first place, what you're probably going through right now, some good decorating ideas, a few jokes to the people off camera, and anything else that has nothing to do with the reason why someone clicked on your video in the first place.
    Here's a thought: ACTUALLY START THE STUPID FREAKING VIDEO WHAT THE MATERIAL THAT MADE ME CLICK ON IT!!
    Seriously, it has to be the most annoying thing when seeking information.
    Not for nothing, you make some good points. Those other things that you have to say, how about waiting till the end of the video to say them? Imagine asking someone for directions, and they talked for 15 minutes about where they grew up around here. Just think about it, just saying.

    • @StephenTaylorDrums
      @StephenTaylorDrums  6 років тому +10

      Simon black I actually think about it a lot. Teaching Drums via video is my full time job. The reason I construct videos the way I do on this channel all happens for a reason. It’s the same for the more in depth lessons on my website. They’re constructed differently because it’s not a You Tube audience.
      please, feel free to use that scrub button to skip around. Thanks for stopping my by my friend!

    • @simonblack3910
      @simonblack3910 6 років тому +1

      @@StephenTaylorDrums I need to make the point that it's a great vid though. My transistions have been problematic at times, so again, your points are well made.

    • @uhhhclem
      @uhhhclem 6 років тому +2

      ​@@StephenTaylorDrums I can tell you that I gave up watching this video instead of hearing what you had to say about the subject, and exactly for the reasons that Simon said. These tropes are, for want of a better word, disrespectful. I came to this video because I wanted to learn about drumming, and that's not what I'm getting.
      This is a really common failure mode of UA-cam instructional videos. Doing this wrong is a big part of why some instructors have a dedicated audience and a ton of followers and can get support via Patreon while others don't and can't.
      Contrast the structure of your video with one of Adam Neely's instructional videos. Neely's start with a quick introduction and then immediately dive into the subject. If there's any promotion in the video at all, it's at the end (and for the most part, he doesn't do in-video promotion at all anymore). The thing that's front and center in his videos at all time is the material. It shows that he respects his audience's needs.
      The first two full minutes of this video are about *your* needs. Why should anyone watch that?

    • @gregoryhoward3501
      @gregoryhoward3501 6 років тому

      Hey instead of approaching an informative teacher with a hostile fueled complaint, maybe you should understand what they're breaking down. He's not making these videos for uninformative procrastination. If you took the time to listen to him you would understand that he's giving you the background and origin of the topic, how to approach and appropriately practice what he's showing you, and to reiterate the lesson to ensure you understood the lesson. What better way to invest research time? As a musician you're supposed to fully invest, improve, and never stop learning. Until you change the fly by night approach in improving your playing, you'll always be mediocre. Don't cheat yourself by investing in short shitty videos that simply throw half-assed lessons at the audience. If anything invest your time with videos and teachers similar. Even better it's game winning knowledge and information for FUCKING FREE. It's a win win overall. I promise I'm not coming at you in a offensive way, I just want to explain the advantage that he's offering us as drummers. Appreciate the work he does and continue to discipline yourself to becoming a better drummers. Hopefully one day you'll be the on the other side teaching novice drummers. Rock on man! \m/

    • @uhhhclem
      @uhhhclem 6 років тому

      ​@@gregoryhoward3501 No hostility from me, friend. Just some suggestions of things you can do that will build your audience instead of driving it away.
      As with musicianship, teaching is something that you can learn by figuring out just what sounds good to you, and eventually you can get really good at it. But you can get better a lot faster by studying what others in the field are doing and how they're doing it. Once you get more experience you'll understand how valuable it is when people you don't even know offer you their hand to help you get better. (You'll also learn, as you did when you were learning to be a musician, that when people analyze your performance and suggest improvements it's not because they're being hostile.)

  • @dylansonderman3003
    @dylansonderman3003 4 роки тому

    Helpful tips, thank you!

  • @marekgabrysch3087
    @marekgabrysch3087 6 років тому +3

    groove timing and transitions for the impatient- over 2minutes of waffle

  • @maxhdi6293
    @maxhdi6293 6 років тому +1

    Thanks for the tip, been playing for years yet still want to come back to the beginning and learn all of this again.
    again, Thanks

  • @KevinZ2269
    @KevinZ2269 6 років тому +7

    Lars needs to watch this LOL.. Sorry I just had to.

  • @MalibuGlassMI
    @MalibuGlassMI 3 роки тому

    Timing, Grove, Transitions...Brand new at 48 yrs. Old. Thank you..Subbing and lots to do...Let's go!

    • @StephenTaylorDrums
      @StephenTaylorDrums  3 роки тому +1

      Glad to have ya hanging Tom

    • @MalibuGlassMI
      @MalibuGlassMI 3 роки тому

      @@StephenTaylorDrums Thanks Stephen. You're an awesome teacher... I'm learning a lot from you more than anyone else so far on UA-cam. I'll be back! Too bad you're not in Grand Rapids I'd pay you for lessons.

  • @brothaman4578
    @brothaman4578 5 років тому +3

    I thought you were applauding me for picking up the drums. So disappointing. :-(

  • @howtoteachscience
    @howtoteachscience 5 років тому

    I have a channel for beginner drummers and it's hard to find people who address things like this without being snarky or sarcastic. Thanks for being one of the good guys. I love your stuff.

  • @chriskenrowan
    @chriskenrowan 6 років тому +3

    Two and half minutes into it we finally get to #1 - timing. What a waste of time...

  • @moshesakal
    @moshesakal 6 років тому +1

    Stephen this is great. Not even half way through the video and I'll already picked up some great tips. I love the idea you mentioned about us having our own frequency and not having to worry about being robotic. It says a lot about our natural gifts and abilities. Thanks for sharing these tips.

  • @peacegroove7854
    @peacegroove7854 6 років тому +2

    Timing. You can´t have groove or good transitions without a great sense of timing. It´s the skill ALL GREAT DRUMMERS have in common, it might even be the only thing that they all share. Thanks for posting!

  • @ed0985587
    @ed0985587 5 років тому +1

    Awesome lesson, can't wait to watch more. I've figured out that as a new drum player my groove is all out of whack! Likely because I don't quite know what I am doing yet. It sure is fun and therapeutic smacking on those drums though!! Coming from guitar background, drums is a different world!

  • @donjuanob
    @donjuanob 6 років тому

    Transition atm...just picking the sticks back up after 10 yr lay off...your videos have been very helpful..STEVEN..THANKS FROM NORTH MS

  • @ronmyers2317
    @ronmyers2317 4 роки тому

    Your suggestion to record myself during a practice and play it back is quite intimidating. I have been purposely avoiding recording myself for fear of what I'm going to hear. But I guess I have to bite the bullet. I guess it's the only way for my time Transitions and grooves to get better. Thanks for sharing the video