Tag: master drummer

  • The Times have Changed for drummers

    The Times have Changed for drummers


    Back in the 70s, drummers with a vast knowledge of world rhythms from different genres were pretty rare. Of course there were some, but not like today. Very few had the chance to travel to places like Africa to study with masters or experience the rhythms of Cuba. Milt Holland legendary percussionist did. Nowadays, that… Read More »

  • Is it the drum or drummer?

    Is it the drum or drummer?


    Is it the drum or the drummer, the carpenter or the hammer? You know the old debate. It’s like asking whether it’s the ballplayer or the bat. There are two sides to this discussion, with no definitive right or wrong in my opinion. From my experiences, I’ve seen incredible drummers produce amazing sounds on what… Read More »

  • Bolokada reveals secret of the djembe

    Bolokada reveals secret of the djembe


    Bolokada reveals secret of the djembe It is rare that I am able to share the deepest secrets of the Djembe!  I have shared many songs, rhythms, and stories of my Malinke people, many techniques. Now, I’m excited to share the secrets of playing the djembe and the music with you. This is something I… Read More »

  • Understanding the Basic Fundamentals of Playing the Djembe Drum

    Understanding the Basic Fundamentals of Playing the Djembe Drum


    West African hand drumming and specifically speaking, “traditional djembe drumming” is based on a system of fundamentals or “basics” just like any other type or form of drumming be it Indian, Afro Cuban, Brazilian or even the western drum set. There are rudiments or “basic fundamentals” of djembe playing that can be similar to drum… Read More »

  • There are many kinds and types  of djembe and African drum rhythms

    There are many kinds and types of djembe and African drum rhythms


    Let’s face the facts. Until Mamady Keita arrived in the USA we were playing djembe ass backwards. For example, Mandiani was more often then not being played  backwards as Soli, (Donba in Senegal) or visa versa. We were doing the best we could at the time as there was very limited  resources available in the… Read More »

Michael Pluznick