9/09/2008

Bringing Your Song To Life With Drums

The Kick

Whether you are using FL Studio or using another drum source, the importance of drums is essential in every song you write. Drums are the backbone of most songs. When you think of a dance song, you think of the beat. The beat is the fuel for making people want to just get up and dance. Here, I will explain common kinds of drums and their place in the world.

The whole beat comes down to the kick drums. When you are tapping your foot to a song, you are also identifying the kick drum. It is the sound of the song that provides the main rhythm.

In some songs, the kick drum is played in accordance with the bass. After all, a kick drum is in the bass drum category. It is low, rhythmic, and usually follows a strict pattern throughout the song. Here is a song that emphasize it's kick.

Rhythm Is A Dancer by SNAP

Notice the kick in this song almost has a hypnotizing effect on the listener. Once it starts, it stays the same throughout the song (until the pre-chorus and close.)

The Hat/ Hi Hat
A subtle sounding drum that plays a vital roll in all types of music. It is especially popular in hip hop and rap songs. It is usually played in a loop, repeating through it's respectable parts of the song. For instance, a hat could be played every other beat in an 8 beat riff through each verse. When the pre-chorus starts, the hat will become more frequent and intense.

Hat drums are a member of the cymbal family. It is what gives the song some sizzle. Out of all the main drum sounds, it is the most unpredictable and free. Here are two songs that emphasize their hat drums.

Dr. Dre Ft. Eminem- Forgot About Dre

ADULT LANGUAGE



This song thrives on it's high hat. It is more prominent than any other percussion in the song, and without it the song would probably be bland.

Melissa Etheridge- Bring Me Some Water



Though not as prominent in this song, the hat plays a vital roll. In the beginning, listen to the light drumming. The hat is rhythmically repeating and brings excitement to the singing.

The Snare
The snare is the butter, the kick is the bread. It is common in every type of song, and it is always unique. Sometimes it's the only drum used in a song. It could be used as a solo in a song, it could be used to coordinate with the kick. Think back to highschool basketball games. The matching band always used their snare drums to create their own song.

It usually happens once or twice to every 8 beats. The snare will usually be the main tool for bringing excitement and fun to a song. Check out the fun this guy is having:



A song that emphisizes it's snare:



I've put together a short video showing myself putting the mentioned percussion together to create a dance song. If you have any questions, feel free to ask!



As always, remember to have fun writing your music.

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Posted by shewrites2live

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