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The Big 7: Larnell Lewis Ranks Key Drumming Skills

Seamus Evely  /  UPDATED Nov 21, 2023

“If there’s no groove, what do ya got?”

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Larnell Lewis is among the elite modern drummers of the last decade. Whether you found him through his many notable Snarky Puppy performances, his solo work, or his several appearances on Drumeo (including the viral video where Larnell hears Metallica’s “Enter Sandman” for the first time), you know that Larnell has got the goods.

I thought it would be fun to revisit my list of essential drumming skills and have Larnell rank them from most important to least important. As a bonus, Larnell also offers a helpful tip to improve upon each skill set.

I thought it would be fun to revisit my list of essential drumming skills and have Larnell rank them from most important to least important. As a bonus, Larnell also offers a helpful tip to improve upon each skill set. 

In this episode:

You will hear about…

  • The ‘Big 7’ and Larnell’s rankings:
    1. Speed
    2. Independence/Coordination
    3. Time Keeping/Groove
    4. Personality
    5. Sound
    6. Repertoire
    7. Technique
  • A tip from Larnell to improve upon each skill in the Big 7
  • Confidence tips from Larnell

Why should you listen?

This list is by and large what drummers, and all musicians for that matter, need to develop in order to become competent on their respective instrument. But what needs to be addressed first? Which of these things doesn’t need to be entertained until other skills have been sorted out?

Clarity brings focus. Focus brings direction. Direction served with diligent practice brings results. This is the purpose of today’s episode. To help you see results in your drumming and beyond.

Music featured in today’s episode:

Larnell Lewis – “The Forgotten Ones” (RTM)
Larnell Lewis – “Change Your Mind” (RTM)
Larnell Lewis – “In The Moment” (RTM)

Find Larnell Lewis on Spotify

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