Learn to playI Won't Back Downas made famous by Tom Pettyon drums
The "I Won't Back Down" drum beat features a straightforward, steady rhythm with a solid kick-snare pattern and light hi-hat accents, reinforcing the song’s resilient and laid-back vibe.
With our step-by-step drum lesson you can recreate the beat behind I Won't Back Down. We’ve broken down the main sections of the song and will take you through each part beat by beat, with video demonstrations.
I Won't Back Down
Drums Tutorial - Step by Step
Intro
Lay down the basic groove that comprises the better part of the song for 4 bars in this intro.
Verse
Continue the groove into the verse. Play a crash in bar 5. At the end of this section, play 1/8 notes between the low tom and snare, leading to a crash on beat 3 to move into the chorus.
Chorus
Continue the same groove into the chorus, repeating the fill from the verse in bar 4.
Verse 2 - chorus 2
Kick off verse 2 with a crash. Repeat the fill in bar 10 to lead into the chorus. For this chorus, play the same fill every 3 bars. You may wish to use Practice Mode to loop and slow this down to get the groove locked in.
Outro
Play 5 bars of the groove to lead the tune out.
Combine and play
Now combine the sections to play the full arrangement.
Learn to play
I Won't Back Down
with Melodics
Behind the track
I Won't Back Down
by Tom Petty
"I Won't Back Down" blends rock and folk elements with a simple yet powerful arrangement, characterized by jangly guitars, steady bass, and restrained percussion. Tom Petty's vocal performance is earnest and defiant, carrying the song's message of perseverance and strength with clarity and conviction.
Tips for learning I Won't Back Down on drums
Tip 1: Slow it down
Break it down: Tackle each section of 'I Won't Back Down' 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
- While the drums in "I Won't Back Down" have a simpler pattern compared to some other songs, achieving the right feel and consistency can still be challenging. 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 for consistent patterns. Foot Coordination: Effective use of the bass drum pedal in sync with hand movements. Timing: Maintain a steady, consistent tempo throughout the song. Dynamics Control: Play with the right intensity to match the song’s laid-back yet resolute feel. Endurance: Sustain energy and focus throughout the song's duration. Listening Skills: Ability to replicate subtle nuances in the drum pattern. Patience & Practice: Willingness to practice consistently to refine your technique and build confidence.
- 114 bpm
- 4/4
- G 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.