 We can all agree that contemporary music is placing greater demands on drummers of all musical styles. Whether it’s Hip-Hop, Pop, Funk, Rock, Fusion, Blues, Latin or Jazz, studying fundamental techniques such as double strokes and ghost strokes will be helpful in reaching your goals. Below are some useful concepts to get you started.
First, let’s discuss the left hand. It’s always a good idea to build strength in both hands. Try playing hi-hat patterns that you now play with the right hand, with the left hand instead. (Ex. 1)
Notice how playing the hi-hat with the left hand frees the right to move around the kit, as illustrated in Exercises 2 and 3.
Also, practice hi-hat opening exercises with the left hand (Ex. 4 and Ex. 5).
Now, let’s look at a technique borrowed from our rudimental tradition. This technique utilizes basic double strokes. Notice in Exercises 6 and 7 how common rhythmic figures take on a new sound and feel through the use of doubles.
You can see and hear how these doubles are used in the groove patterns in Exercises 8, 9 and 10.
Now, let’s look at “Ghost Strokes” or “Ghosting” a stroke, as it is sometimes called. A “Ghost Stroke” is more implied, rather than an accented or unaccented note. Played very softly, it is almost inaudible compared to the other strokes in a pattern. A good example of this concept is shown in the figure  . The hi-hat on the “and” of the beat should be barely audible, so that it sounds like the figure  . Check out the groove Exercises 11 and 12.
 
After you have a chance to play through these brief exercises I’m sure you’ll see how these techniques can be incorporated to bring about some great new and innovative grooves, patterns and fills of your own. Have fun and remember to always practice slowly and consistently at first, gradually bringing things up to the desired tempo. Groove on!
These concepts and exercises are taken from Rick’s books “Advanced Funk Studies” and “Contemporary Drumset Techniques.” More intensive study of these concepts can be found in these books as well as the accompanying 25th Anniversary DVD.
About the Author
Rick Latham is a drum set artist performing, recording, producing and teaching in the Los Angeles area since 1984. Once a featured member of The Edgar Winter Band, Rick is currently the founder and driving force of his own contemporary jazz “supergroup”, Rick Latham and the Groove Doctors. Throughout his career Rick has performed with B.B. King, Quincy Jones, Neal Schon and Pat Travers, among many others. Latham is also the author of the long-celebrated and internationally recognized drummer’s text Advanced Funk Studies and Contemporary Drumset Techniques. |
Download a printer-friendly PDF file of the exercises (380KB)