Winning The Battle With Yourself

Hey fellow drummers!

What are you struggling with right now? How much of your struggle is with yourself rather than the instrument?

I’ve been working a lot recently on trying to get out of my own way, and this week’s featured article tries to pass on some hints and tips that can help with breaking down some of those psychological barriers that can stop us from progressing.

Alongside that, we have our weekly top 5 from around the web, and a focus on the hugely influential Stewart Copeland, delving into some examples of his unique sound.

Enjoy, and happy drumming,

Iain

Steve Smith spoke to DrumTalk about setup, dynamics, adjusting your playing to the genre, and more. As usual, there are some great insights from Steve!

Your second “Steve” this week - Steve Jordan. “Art Of Drumming” recreates Steve’s sounds in their video!

“That Swedish Drummer” has posted a beginner’s guide to 16th note grooves. If you’re in the early stages of your drumming career (or even just want to go back to basics), check it out!

Happy Birthday, Carter McLean - or is it everyone else’s birthday, since we’ve been given a little present?

Another gift this week comes from from Al’s Drum Hang - insights from 35 years of drumming experience…

This week’s featured article talks about some of the psychological aspects of playing the drums.

We can often get in our own way - our thoughts and beliefs can hold back our progress or catch us off guard at the worst moments.

Do you find it easy to get into the flow state during practice or rehearsals, but struggle on stage? Thanks, brain!

We discuss some of the issues that we face as drummers and musicians and some mechanisms for dealing with them.

…Stewart Copeland

Stewart Copeland is a name that reverberates powerfully in the annals of rock drumming. Known for his distinctive, high-energy style and innovative technique, Copeland has left an indelible mark on the world of music, particularly through his work with the iconic rock band, The Police.

Background

Stewart Copeland was born on July 16, 1952, in Alexandria, Virginia, USA. Despite his American roots, he spent his formative years in the Middle East, where his father was a CIA officer. Exposed to a rich tapestry of cultures and musical influences, Copeland was drawn to drumming from a young age. His early encounters with Arabic music, in particular, would have a profound influence on his drumming style, shaping his approach to rhythm and timing. Copeland began his professional music career in the mid-1970s, playing for progressive rock band Curved Air.

Time with The Police

In 1977, Copeland formed The Police with Sting and Henry Padovani, who was later replaced by Andy Summers.

The band fused elements of rock, reggae, and jazz to create a sound that was entirely their own. Copeland's drumming was a vital component of this sound. His brisk, syncopated beats and innovative use of cymbals brought an unusual and irresistible energy to The Police's music.

The band enjoyed immense success, with hits like "Roxanne," "Message in a Bottle" and "Every Breath You Take" and Copeland's distinctive drumming was central to their unique and unforgettable sound.

Style and Quirks

Stewart Copeland's style is marked by an energetic, off-beat approach to rhythm, often employing syncopation and unexpected accents. He is renowned for his intricate hi-hat work and his innovative use of cymbals, often incorporating splash cymbals and bell effects into his drumming. Copeland's playing also stands out for his use of the rim of the drum, creating a distinctive clicking sound that became a signature of his style. His drum setup, notably a bright Tama drum kit with Paiste cymbals, also contributed to his unique sound.

Let’s take a look at 3 tracks that highlight Stewart’s unique style.

Track 1: "Walking on the Moon" (The Police)

"Walking on the Moon" perfectly highlights Copeland's unique, reggae-inspired style. His offbeat, syncopated drumming adds a distinctive, buoyant feel to the track. Listen to how he maintains a laid-back groove while incorporating unexpected accents and fills. His mastery of dynamics and control is evident as he seamlessly transitions from subdued verses to the energetic chorus.

Track 2: "Driven to Tears" (The Police)

"Driven to Tears" showcases Copeland's ability to create tension and drama with his drumming. His playing on this track is characterized by rapid, intricate hi-hat and ride patterns and aggressive snare hits. The intense, driving rhythm he maintains throughout the song is a testament to his technical prowess and stamina.

Track 3: "Murder by Numbers" (The Police)

"Murder by Numbers" features a less frenetic, but equally impressive, aspect of Copeland's drumming. Here, he displays his finesse and musicality, laying down a smooth, jazzy beat that perfectly complements the song's noir-ish vibe. His deft touch on the cymbals and his tasteful use of ghost notes add a layer of complexity to the seemingly simple rhythm. This track demonstrates that Copeland's skills extend beyond high-energy rock drumming into more nuanced, sophisticated styles.

Drumming to His Own Beat: The Lasting Legacy

Stewart Copeland's contribution to the world of drumming extends far beyond his time with The Police. His adventurous, inventive style has inspired countless drummers and left a lasting legacy in the world of music.

His playing continues to captivate and inspire, proving that the rhythm is indeed the heart of any musical endeavour.

His story serves as a reminder that drumming is not just about keeping time, but about creating a unique musical voice that can speak to, and move, audiences worldwide.

An interesting video about tracking drums onto tape! A nice easy watch when you get 15 minutes.

I thought this was a fun video about double bass drum playing

Until next time, have fun.