Groove (drumming)

In drumming, a groove is a repeated phrase that sets and maintains the rhythm and tempo of the piece.

Grooves and fills are the main components of the music played on a drum kit, and together with basic techniques or rudiments such as flams make up the curriculum for learning to play the drum kit.

To a drummer, a groove is the drumming equivalent of a riff to a guitarist.

Examples

Traditional Africa Bell pattern Cross-rhythm Djembe rhythms

Asia Dumbek iqa' Tala

Europe Jig March Polka Waltz Asymmetric or compound meter Flamenco Palos

Latin America Bossa Nova Cha-cha Dembow Merengue Samba Son Clave Tresillo

Contemporary Jazz music Shuffle Swing

Rock music Cut time Four on the floor Two-step Rosanna shuffle

Heavy metal music Blast beat Breakdown Double bass drum pattern

See also Groove (music)

References