Chart-Toppers – Two-Bars – Lesson 2

The following chart-topping examples are two-measure repeating grooves. When working with 8th beats, two-measure repeating beats are common because they make the groove less repetitive. They are, however, more difficult to play because you have to remember more while playing.

After you’ve played the beat a few times through, try playing the groove without looking at the notation. This is a good listening exercise but also great practice for building your “beat memory.” How many rock drummers do you see on stage reading sheet music? Probably not many!

Ohio – Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young

Livin’ on a Prayer – Bon Jovi

The Middle – Jimmy Eat World

Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress – The Hollies