First things first. Download your free transcription here.
Today's video touches on a topic that comes up relatively frequently with my students.
"I'm not trying to be an instagram star or play 25 minute stadium solos. Can't I just focus on groove?"
Well in one very basic sense, yes of course.
We can all think of great drummers for whom solos or "chopping" was and is a very minor part of their lexicon, if it's a part at all.
But the inevitable follow up is "well what's a 'good' drummer anyway?"
Because it's not like fight sports or flying space craft. It all really is subjective to a degree, depending on the audience. So that's why I say the definition of "good" or "great" drumming depends on what you're trying to do. Be an adaptable studio great like Steve gadd? Well that's a different skill set from integrating really well into one band. Which is different from just enjoying yourself whenever you play.
But here's the rub: if we take that third definition, then for Me, chopping is indeed part of being great. Etc etc.
Then there are two other angles: not knowing what you're missing, and "headroom". It's possible that if you haven't experienced chopping, you actually might like it.
It's also possible that many of our favorite players who don't routinely "bust out" solos nonetheless are able to improvise when the moment calls for it, and that extra capacity gives their playing an intangible confidence.
But as usual, I'm out here trying to have a better conversation than just "groove va chops".
See if you agree with my opinions.