Nirvana is one of the most iconic bands in music history, and their songs are a staple of many drummers’ playlists. However, their music can be challenging to play, especially for beginners. If you’re looking to learn a Nirvana song on drums, you might be wondering which one is the easiest to start with. In this article, we’ll explore the easiest Nirvana song to learn on drums and provide a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
Why Learn Nirvana Songs on Drums?
Before we dive into the easiest Nirvana song to learn on drums, let’s talk about why learning their songs is a great idea. Nirvana’s music is a great way to improve your drumming skills, as it covers a range of techniques and styles. From the simple, driving rhythms of “Come As You Are” to the complex, dynamic patterns of “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” Nirvana’s songs offer a wealth of challenges and opportunities for growth.
Additionally, learning Nirvana songs is a great way to connect with other musicians and fans. Nirvana’s music is widely recognized and loved, and playing their songs is a great way to bond with others who share your passion for music.
Choosing the Easiest Nirvana Song to Learn on Drums
So, which Nirvana song is the easiest to learn on drums? After analyzing their discography and considering various factors such as tempo, time signature, and complexity, we recommend starting with “Breed.”
Why “Breed” is a Great Choice for Beginners
“Breed” is a high-energy song from Nirvana’s debut album, Bleach. It’s a great choice for beginners because of its:
- Simple tempo: “Breed” is played at a moderate tempo of 160 BPM, which is relatively easy to follow.
- Straightforward time signature: The song is played in 4/4 time, which is the most common time signature in rock music.
- Basic drum pattern: The drum pattern in “Breed” is simple and repetitive, making it easy to learn and play along with.
Step-by-Step Guide to Learning “Breed” on Drums
Now that we’ve chosen “Breed” as the easiest Nirvana song to learn on drums, let’s break down the song into smaller sections and provide a step-by-step guide to learning it.
Section 1: Intro and Verse
The intro and verse of “Breed” feature a simple, driving rhythm played on the kick drum and snare drum. To play this section, follow these steps:
- Start by playing a steady kick drum pattern on beats 1 and 3.
- Add the snare drum on beats 2 and 4.
- Play a simple hi-hat pattern on the off-beats.
- Focus on playing with a strong, consistent rhythm and a relaxed feel.
Tip: Focus on Your Foot Technique
When playing the kick drum pattern, focus on using your foot to play the notes. This will help you develop a strong, consistent sound and improve your overall technique.
Section 2: Chorus
The chorus of “Breed” features a slightly more complex drum pattern, with the addition of crash cymbals and a more driving rhythm. To play this section, follow these steps:
- Start by playing the same kick drum pattern as the verse.
- Add the snare drum on beats 2 and 4, but play it slightly louder and with more emphasis.
- Play a crash cymbal on the “and” of beat 2.
- Focus on playing with a strong, energetic feel and a sense of momentum.
Tip: Use Your Arms to Add Emphasis
When playing the chorus, use your arms to add emphasis to the snare drum and crash cymbal. This will help you create a more dynamic and engaging sound.
Section 3: Bridge
The bridge of “Breed” features a slightly slower tempo and a more subdued drum pattern. To play this section, follow these steps:
- Start by playing a slower kick drum pattern, focusing on beats 1 and 3.
- Add the snare drum on beats 2 and 4, but play it slightly softer and with less emphasis.
- Play a simple hi-hat pattern on the off-beats.
- Focus on playing with a relaxed, laid-back feel.
Tip: Focus on Your Dynamics
When playing the bridge, focus on playing with a range of dynamics, from soft to loud. This will help you create a more nuanced and engaging sound.
Conclusion
Learning “Breed” on drums is a great way to start your Nirvana drumming journey. With its simple tempo, straightforward time signature, and basic drum pattern, it’s an accessible song for beginners. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you’ll be able to learn and play “Breed” with confidence and accuracy.
Remember to focus on your technique, dynamics, and overall feel, and don’t be afraid to experiment and add your own flair to the song. With practice and dedication, you’ll be playing like Dave Grohl in no time!
Additional Tips and Resources
- Practice with a metronome: Using a metronome will help you develop a strong sense of timing and rhythm.
- Listen to the original recording: Listen to the original recording of “Breed” to get a sense of the song’s feel and dynamics.
- Watch drum covers: Watch drum covers of “Breed” on YouTube to get inspiration and see how other drummers play the song.
- Take lessons: Consider taking lessons from a qualified drum teacher to help you improve your technique and learn new skills.
By following these tips and resources, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled drummer and playing your favorite Nirvana songs with confidence and accuracy.
What makes a Nirvana song easy to learn on drums?
A Nirvana song is considered easy to learn on drums when it has a simple and repetitive drum pattern, a slow to moderate tempo, and minimal complex time signatures or rhythms. Many of Nirvana’s songs feature driving and straightforward drum beats that are perfect for beginners to practice and build their skills. Additionally, the band’s music often focuses on the energy and feel of the performance rather than intricate drumming, making it more accessible to new drummers.
When choosing an easy Nirvana song to learn on drums, look for tracks with a consistent beat and simple fills. You can also consider songs with a slower tempo, as they will give you more time to focus on playing each note accurately. Some popular easy Nirvana songs for drummers include “Come As You Are,” “Lithium,” and “Breed.”
What is the easiest Nirvana song to learn on drums for a beginner?
The easiest Nirvana song to learn on drums for a beginner is often debated among drummers, but a popular choice is “Come As You Are.” This song features a simple and iconic drum pattern that repeats throughout the track, making it easy to learn and play along with. The tempo is moderate, and the time signature is straightforward, allowing beginners to focus on developing their basic drumming skills.
The drum pattern in “Come As You Are” is also relatively simple, consisting of a combination of quarter notes and eighth notes on the hi-hats, snare drum, and bass drum. This pattern is easy to follow and allows beginners to practice playing with a steady beat and developing their coordination between limbs. With practice, beginners can quickly learn to play along with this song and develop their skills as a drummer.
What skills do I need to learn to play Nirvana songs on drums?
To play Nirvana songs on drums, you’ll need to develop basic drumming skills such as coordination, timing, and rhythm. You should be able to play with a steady beat, develop your limb independence, and practice playing with dynamics (loud and soft). Additionally, you’ll need to learn basic drumming techniques such as playing quarter notes, eighth notes, and sixteenth notes, as well as basic fills and grooves.
It’s also essential to develop your listening skills and learn to play along with a metronome or a recording of the song. This will help you improve your timing and ensure that you’re playing in sync with the music. As you progress, you can focus on developing more advanced skills such as playing with complex time signatures, odd time signatures, and intricate drum patterns.
How long will it take to learn a Nirvana song on drums?
The time it takes to learn a Nirvana song on drums depends on your individual skill level, practice schedule, and the complexity of the song. If you’re a beginner, it may take several weeks or even months to learn a simple Nirvana song, while more experienced drummers may be able to learn a song in a few days or a week.
It’s essential to set realistic goals and practice regularly to improve your skills. Start by breaking down the song into smaller sections and practicing each part slowly until you feel comfortable. Gradually increase your speed and practice playing along with a metronome or a recording of the song. With consistent practice, you can quickly learn to play a Nirvana song on drums and develop your skills as a drummer.
What equipment do I need to learn Nirvana songs on drums?
To learn Nirvana songs on drums, you’ll need a basic drum kit consisting of a bass drum, snare drum, tom-toms, hi-hats, and a crash cymbal. You’ll also need a pair of drumsticks and a drum throne. If you’re practicing at home, it’s recommended to use a drum practice pad or a electronic drum kit to minimize noise and disturbance.
Additionally, you may want to invest in a metronome to help you improve your timing and a pair of drumming headphones to practice playing along with recordings of Nirvana songs. You can also use online resources such as video lessons, drum tabs, and practice tracks to help you learn and improve your skills.
Can I learn to play Nirvana songs on drums without taking lessons?
Yes, it’s possible to learn to play Nirvana songs on drums without taking lessons. There are many online resources available, including video lessons, drum tabs, and practice tracks, that can help you learn and improve your skills. You can also use apps and software such as YouTube, Drumeo, and Toontrack to access a wide range of drum lessons and practice tools.
However, taking lessons from a qualified drum teacher can be beneficial in helping you improve your skills faster and more efficiently. A drum teacher can provide personalized feedback, correct any bad habits, and help you develop a practice routine tailored to your needs and goals. If you’re a beginner, it’s recommended to take lessons to ensure that you’re developing good technique and avoiding any injuries.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when learning Nirvana songs on drums?
When learning Nirvana songs on drums, some common mistakes to avoid include playing with poor timing, rushing or dragging the beat, and playing with incorrect dynamics. It’s also essential to avoid developing bad habits such as playing with an uneven stroke or using the wrong grip.
Additionally, make sure to practice slowly and build up your speed gradually. Don’t try to play a song at full speed if you’re not comfortable with the tempo or the drum pattern. It’s also essential to listen to the original recording of the song and try to mimic the drumming style and feel of the song. With consistent practice and attention to detail, you can avoid common mistakes and develop your skills as a drummer.