Learn to playSuper Bad (Parts 1 & 2)as made famous by James Brownon drums
The drum beat for 'Super Bad (Parts 1 & 2)' by James Brown is a dynamic, syncopated groove with a tight, funky rhythm, driving hi-hats, steady snare hits, and deep, resonant kicks.
With our step-by-step drum lesson you can recreate the beat behind 'Super Bad (Parts 1 & 2)'. We’ve broken down the main sections of the song and will take you through each part beat by beat, with video demonstrations.
Super Bad (Parts 1 & 2)
Drums Tutorial - Step by Step
A Section
Play the kick and snare together on beat 1. Open the hi-hat on beats 1-& and 3-&. Watch for the skip beat on the snare on beat 3-e.
Note: the emphasis of the snare on beats 1, 2-&, and 4 is known as a tresillo rhythm, and is the same as the first half of the 3-2 son clave rhythm.
B Section
Now for the B section, move into a 2 bar repeating pattern, moving between 1/4 notes on the ride, and a bar with skip beats on the ride with variations in the kick and snare. Remember to use Practice Mode if you need to slow it down and isolate any tricky parts. Finish the section with hits on the snare.
A section 2
Now return to the A section groove for 20 bars.
B section 2
Reprise the B section on the ride - with more variations in every second bar.
Outro
Return to the A section groove for 8 bars, and play the hits from the B section to finish.
Combine and play
Now combine the sections to play the full arrangement.
Learn to play
Super Bad (Parts 1 & 2)
with Melodics
Behind the track
Super Bad (Parts 1 & 2)
by James Brown
'Super Bad (Parts 1 & 2)' by James Brown features a high-energy funk composition with tight, syncopated grooves, powerful horn sections, and dynamic bass lines. The rhythm is anchored by a steady drum beat with driving hi-hats and resonant kicks. James Brown's vocal performance is raw and electrifying, characterized by his signature shouts, soulful improvisations, and call-and-response interactions with the band. The song's structure emphasizes repetition and groove, creating an infectious and danceable track that showcases Brown's unparalleled stage presence and musical influence.
Tips for learning 'Super Bad (Parts 1 & 2)' on drums
Tip 1: Slow it down
Break it down: Tackle each section of 'Super Bad (Parts 1 & 2)' 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 'Super Bad (Parts 1 & 2)' on the drums can be challenging, especially for beginners. The drum beat features a syncopated groove, which requires precise timing and a strong sense of rhythm. Key elements like the steady hi-hat pattern, the tight snare hits, and the deep, consistent bass drum kicks must be executed with accuracy to maintain the song's driving funk feel. Additionally, the drummer needs to be comfortable with dynamic playing and able to lock in with the bass and horn sections to create the cohesive groove essential to funk music. While not the most technically complex piece, it demands solid rhythmic foundation and a good sense of groove. Fortunately, there are beginner versions of the song available on Melodics to check out!
- To play 'Super Bad (Parts 1 & 2)' on the drums, you need to develop the following skills: - Timing and Rhythm: A strong sense of timing is crucial to maintain the song's syncopated groove. - Syncopation: Ability to play off-beat patterns and rhythms with precision. - Hi-Hat Control: Proficiency in maintaining a steady hi-hat pattern while playing other parts of the kit. - Dynamic Playing: Skill in varying intensity and volume to match the song’s energy and interact with the band. - Consistency: Maintaining a steady beat without rushing or dragging, especially during repetitive sections. - Coordination: Independence between hands and feet to handle complex patterns involving the snare, bass drum, and hi-hat. - Groove and Feel: Ability to lock in with the bass line and horn sections to create a cohesive and infectious funk groove. Developing these skills will help you capture the essence of James Brown's 'Super Bad (Parts 1 & 2)' and deliver a compelling performance.
- 125 bpm
- 4 / 4
- D major
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