Introducing: The Drum History Minute
I recently started writing a monthly column in DRUM! magazine entitled “Moment in History.” The column was inspired by a series of audio commentaries I created for this website called “The Drum History Minute.”
Each commentary focuses on a particular element of drum history – whether it be a particular drummer, groove, recording or piece of gear – and brings it to life in a whole new way. So go ahead, click on one of the topics below . . . you might find yourself suddenly interested in “history” like you never were in school!
DHM #1: Rockin’ and A Knockin’
Learn the history behind one of rock’s all time classic openers: John Bonham’s intro to Led Zeppelin’s “Rock’n’Roll.”
DHM #3: Buddy Harman
Here’s the back story on Buddy Harman, the “Father of Country Drumming.” Classic Tracks Featuring the Drumming of Buddy Harman:
“Crazy,” “Walkin’ After Midnight” – Patsy Cline
“Bye Bye Love,” “Cathy’s Clown”– The Everly Brothers
“Oh Pretty Woman” – Roy Orbison
“King of the Road” – Roger Miller
“Ring of Fire” – Johnny Cash
“Big Bad John” – Jimmy Dean, Johnny Cash
“Stand By Your Man” – Tammy Wynette
“The Battle of New Orleans” – Johnny Horton
“Viva Las Vegas” – Elvis Presley
“The Train Kept A Rollin’” – Johnny Burnette Trio
Check out this incredible internet piece on the origins of breakbeats. Turns out that many of today’s best known breakbeats derive from the drum part of a 1960s soul tune called “Amen, Brother.” Warning: This piece lasts about 15 minutes, but is totally worth it!
DHM #2: Rock Around the Clock
Get the scoop behind the first official smash of the rock era.
DHM #4: The “Bo Diddley Beat”
Get the skinny on one of the most enduring rock beats of all time.
Songs Based On The Bo Diddley Beat:
“Bo Diddley,” “Who Do You Love,” “Pretty Thing” – Bo Diddley
“Not Fade Away” – Buddy Holly, Rolling Stones
“Willie & the Hand Jive” – Johnny Otis Show, Eric Clapton, Grease Soundtrack
“I Want Candy” – Bow Wow Wow, The Strangeloves
“Women are Smarter” – The Grateful Dead
“Magic Carpet Ride” – Steppenwolf
“Magic Bus” – The Who
“Who Do You Love” – The Doors, George Thorogood
“She’s the One” – Bruce Springsteen
“Faith” – George Michael
“Desire” – U2
Check out this 1955 video clip of Bo Diddley performing his hit “Bo Diddley.”
Special thanks to C.G. Ryche for his very fine job of recording and editing the Drum History Minutes.