A lot of people ask me how to improve their rhythm when they are drumming or learning to drum. Everyone has to start somewhere and there are definitely things to do that can help us improve.
A fun way to play, improve, learn to “lock in” and sit in a groove is to play along to any kind of pre recorded music. Simply put on the music and play along! I still love this and do it regularly.
It’s a “metronome effect” which helps us, our body, muscles and mind focus in and learn to stay in time. Because it is so fun it does not feel tedious. You can also use a metronome or drum program app for the same effect.
If you are learning djembe or congas it’s really fun and helpful to play to prerecorded djembe or Afro Cuban drumming music. I like to play accompaniment and then branch off and repeat a nice lick I hear.
I spent many years with Los Munequitos records locking in to parts and learning the quinto (lead drum) and solo chains.
If you are taking drum classes please record the aido for your class and listen back and play along to it as well.