"Livin' on a Prayer" by Bon Jovi is a classic rock anthem known for its energetic and anthemic nature. Playing the drums along to this song can be a thrilling experience. Here are some tips to enhance your drumming experience with "Livin' on a Prayer":
Master the Basic Beat: Start by getting the basic beat down. "Livin' on a Prayer" has a driving 4/4 rock beat. Focus on maintaining a steady rhythm with your bass drum on beats 1 and 3 and your snare drum on beats 2 and 4.
Use Dynamic Drumming: The song has dynamic changes, so be sure to play with varying dynamics. During the verses, you might want to keep it relatively simple and then build up the intensity during the chorus. Experiment with different volumes and accents to capture the dynamics of the song.
Pay Attention to the Fill-ins: There are some notable drum fills in the song, especially leading into the chorus. Practice these fills to add excitement and transition smoothly between sections. Pay attention to the timing and feel of the fills to match the overall vibe of the song.
Sync with the Band: "Livin' on a Prayer" is a band-oriented song, so it's crucial to sync with the other musicians. Pay attention to the vocals, guitar, and bass parts to ensure that your drumming complements the overall sound. Communication and coordination with the rest of the band are key.
Experiment with Tom-Toms: During the bridge and instrumental sections, there are opportunities to use the tom-toms to add variety to your drumming. Experiment with different tom patterns to keep the drumming interesting and dynamic.
Practice Tempo Control: The song's tempo is crucial, so practice playing along with the original recording or a metronome to ensure you maintain a steady pace. Consistent tempo is essential for a tight and powerful performance.
Add Your Personal Flair: While it's important to stay true to the original feel of the song, don't be afraid to inject some of your own style and flair. Add personal touches to the fills or experiment with different drumming techniques to make the performance your own.
Focus on Endurance: "Livin' on a Prayer" has a high-energy feel throughout, so be prepared for a physically demanding drumming session. Work on your endurance to sustain the energy levels required for the entire song, especially during live performances.
Remember, the key is to have fun while playing. As you become more comfortable with the song, you can explore different nuances and develop your own signature style when playing "Livin' on a Prayer" on the drums.
Caden shows us how students are learning to play Livin' on a Prayer in just a short time while taking drum lessons. Check out this video!
Want to know more about the drummer from Bon Jovi? Here is a quick background of Tico.
Tico Torres, born Hector Samuel Juan Torres, is an accomplished drummer and a long-time member of Bon Jovi, having been with the band since 1983.
Here are some key points about Tico Torres:
Early Life: Tico Torres was born on October 7, 1953, in New York City, USA. Before joining Bon Jovi, he had an impressive career as a studio and live session drummer, working with various artists.
Joining Bon Jovi: Tico became the drummer for Bon Jovi just in time for the recording of their breakthrough album, "Slippery When Wet," which included hit songs like "Livin' on a Prayer," "You Give Love a Bad Name," and "Wanted Dead or Alive." His powerful and energetic drumming style contributed significantly to the band's success.
Contributions to Bon Jovi's Sound: Tico Torres is known for his dynamic and solid drumming that complements Bon Jovi's anthemic rock sound. His drumming often features driving rhythms and skillful use of fills, adding to the overall energy of the band's music.
Artistic Talents Beyond Drumming: In addition to his drumming skills, Tico is also an accomplished artist. He is known for his work as a painter and has showcased his art in various exhibitions.
Longevity with Bon Jovi: Tico Torres has been a consistent member of Bon Jovi for several decades, making him one of the enduring members of the band. His longevity speaks to his musical compatibility with the other members and his significant contribution to the band's success over the years.
Live Performances: Tico Torres is renowned for his energetic and engaging performances during Bon Jovi's live shows. His stage presence and tight drumming contribute to the band's reputation as a powerful and entertaining live act.
Learn more about our drum lessons from our social media
Comments