‘Tis the season to drum up some holiday cheer! As drummers, we know that rhythm is the heartbeat of any celebration, and what better way to infuse the festive spirit than by mastering the beats of iconic Christmas songs?
In this rhythmic journey, we’re unwrapping the gift of rhythm with the “Jingle Beats” series, featuring the TOP 5 Christmas Drumming Classics that will have you rockin’ around the drum kit in no time.
The holiday season brings not only joy and merriment but also a unique opportunity to add a special flair to our drumming repertoire. From Mariah Carey’s timeless “All I Want For Christmas Is You” to the rock-infused rendition of “The Christmas Song” by Twisted Sister, we’ll explore the beats that make these songs holiday staples.
So, buckle up your drumsticks, don your festive drummer’s cap, and let’s dive into the world of yuletide rhythms that are sure to make your drumming merry and bright!
1. “All I Want For Christmas Is You” – Mariah Carey:
Let’s kick off our festive drumming journey with a modern classic that has become synonymous with the holiday season—Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You.” The infectious energy of this tune is not just in Mariah’s soaring vocals but also in the vibrant drumming that propels the song forward. Throughout the verses, maintain a steady beat, and when the chorus hits, unleash the power of your drum kit to capture the exuberance of the season.
2. “Last Christmas” – Wham!:
Next on our yuletide playlist is the timeless “Last Christmas” by Wham! The song’s catchy chorus and heartfelt lyrics are perfectly complemented by its distinct drumming patterns. Pay attention to the balance between the crisp snare hits and the subdued yet driving rhythm in the verses. This song is a great opportunity to practice dynamics, creating a musical conversation between your drum kit and the other instruments.
3. “Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town” – Michael Bublé:
Switching gears to a jazzy rendition, we find Michael Bublé’s take on “Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town.” Embrace the swing feel and let your drumming dance alongside Bublé’s smooth vocals. Jazz up your fills, experiment with different hi-hat patterns, and keep the rhythm light and playful. This song is a testament to the versatility of holiday beats, showcasing that Christmas cheer can swing just as effortlessly as it rocks.
4. “You Make It Feel Like Christmas” – Gwen Stefani feat. Blake Shelton:
Now, let’s explore a country-pop collaboration that brings a twangy charm to our holiday playlist. Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton’s “You Make It Feel Like Christmas” invites us to infuse our drumming with a touch of country warmth. Experiment with a laid-back groove, accentuating the downbeats and incorporating subtle snare rolls. This song is a delightful blend of genres, and your drumming can add that extra sparkle to the Christmas magic.
5. “The Christmas Song” – Twisted Sister:
Closing out our festive drumming adventure is a rockin’ rendition of “The Christmas Song” by Twisted Sister. Embrace the heavier side of holiday beats with powerful drum fills, dynamic cymbal crashes, and a driving rhythm that echoes the energy of a rock concert. Twisted Sister’s take on this classic proves that Christmas can be as headbang-worthy as it is heartwarming.
Conclusion:
As we wrap up our exploration of these TOP 5 Christmas Drumming Classics, remember that the magic of holiday beats lies in your ability to infuse them with your unique style. Whether you’re keeping it classic, swinging to jazz, twanging with country, or rocking out, these festive rhythms are a canvas for your creativity. So, drummers, go ahead, spread the joy, and make this holiday season one to remember with your musical prowess!
Stay tuned for more drumming insights, practice tips, and rhythmic delights. Until then, may your beats be merry and your fills be bright!
