Learn to playI Think I'm Paranoidas made famous by Garbageon drums
The "I Think I'm Paranoid" drum beat features a heavy, driving rhythm with a solid kick-snare pattern, accented cymbals, and dynamic fills, creating a powerful and intense groove.
With our step-by-step drum lesson you can recreate the beat behind I Think I'm Paranoid. We’ve broken down the main sections of the song and will take you through each part beat by beat, with video demonstrations.
I Think I'm Paranoid
Drums Tutorial - Step by Step
Intro
For this lesson, the secondary snare will be mapped to the hi tom.
Lay down an 1/8 note groove on the hi-hat, with 1/16 note kicks on beats 1-a and 4-e.
Verse
Now simplify the groove for the verse, removing the 1/16 note kicks. For the final 2 bars of the verse, bring the 1/16 note kicks back in to lead into the pre-chorus.
Pre-chorus
Start the pre-chorus with a crash, and move your left hand to the main snare. In bar 7, use alternating hands to play the 1/16 notes on the snare, and follow the guitar riff with the kick to lead into double stops on the low tom and snare.
Chorus
Continue the groove on the ride in the chorus, and watch for the crashes in the beginning and middle of this section. Finish this section with double stops on the low tom and snare, starting on beat 1-&.
Bridge
Start the bridge with a crash, and add a 1/16 note on the snare on beat 2-a. In bar 8, follow the guitar riff with the kick pattern again, and stop on beat 3 of the next bar.
Outro
The outro comprises a 4 bar repeating pattern, played four times. Play the crash to start the pattern, and in bar 4, play double stops starting on beat 1-&.
Combine and play
Now combine the sections in the form: intro - verse - pre-chorus - chorus - bridge - chorus - outro - intro to play the full song. Remember to use Practice Mode to slow it down and loop any sections you are having trouble with.
Learn to play
I Think I'm Paranoid
with Melodics
Behind the track
I Think I'm Paranoid
by Garbage
"I Think I'm Paranoid" blends alternative rock with electronic elements, characterized by distorted guitars, layered synths, and a pulsating rhythm section. Shirley Manson's vocal performance is powerful and edgy, skillfully balancing vulnerability with aggression to match the song's intense and moody atmosphere.
Tips for learning I Think I'm Paranoid on drums
Tip 1: Slow it down
Break it down: Tackle each section of 'I Think I'm Paranoid' individually for precision mastery. With Melodics, you can slow the pace of the song and work up to full speed.
Tip 2: Review your performance
Identify growth areas: Listen to playback of your performance to learn where you need to develop your timing, technique & rhythm. Melodics provides instant feedback on your performance.
Tip 3: Practice makes perfect
Stay consistent: With regular, focused practice you'll see rapid progress when learning the song. Even a short session each day will make a huge difference.
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FAQs
- Playing the drums for "I Think I'm Paranoid" can be quite challenging due to its high energy, precise timing, and dynamic shifts. Fortunately, there are beginner versions of the song available on Melodics to check out, making it easier to start learning and gradually mastering the beat.
- Basic Rhythm Understanding: Ability to count and play foundational rock rhythms. Hand Coordination: Independent control of each hand to manage dynamic patterns. Foot Coordination: Effective use of the bass drum pedal in sync with intense hand movements. Timing: Maintain a consistent tempo and handle tempo changes. Dynamics Control: Play with varying intensity to match the song's energetic feel. Endurance: Sustain robust energy levels throughout the song's duration. Listening Skills: Ability to identify and replicate nuanced drum fills and patterns. Patience & Practice: Consistent practice to refine technique and build confidence in handling complex rhythms.
- 114 bpm
- 4/4
- C Major
- New songs are released every week on Melodics! And we love to take requests - the best place for this is within our Discord community where you can also connect with other music learners around the world. Check out https://melodics.com/info/community.