Calling all percussion students and rhythm enthusiasts! Let’s talk about the state of djembe and conga drum solos that we often come across. Have you noticed a shift away from beautiful grooves and funky beats in favor of flashy techniques and speedy rolls?

While I appreciate the technical prowess and speed displayed by these talented musicians, I can’t help but wonder – does it make you want to dance? Do you feel it in your heart, or is it all in your head?

Both experiences are valid, of course! I want to remind all my fellow percussion students and lovers of the craft to prioritize establishing a solid groove. Don’t forget about the funk and feel! In our quest to be mind-blowing and impressive, we sometimes neglect the basics of groove and funk. After all, funk cannot thrive at high speeds alone. Why is that? Well, funk is a delicate balance of space and beats. It requires room to breathe. The space surrounding the notes is what gives them emphasis. It’s like the invisible walls that hold your rhythm house together. Don’t get me wrong, high-speed playing can still be funky, but let’s not overlook the importance of deep groove. We need grooves that make us want to dance, that move us, and bring joy to ourselves and those around us. That’s just as important.

If we look back at the greats of the past, we’ll see that they understood the value of space. Think about James Brown in soul music, Mongo Santamaria, Armando, Chano Pozo in Afro-Cuban, and Famoudou Konaté in West African rhythms. Listen to their recordings and notice how they use chops, space, and push-and-pull to create their magic. Their music makes me want to dance, play, and feel it in my heart and gut. Maybe it’s just me, but I believe this mix of space and beats is where the true essence of rhythm resides, and it should always be our starting point – the roots.

Take a moment to listen or re-listen to the works of Patato and Totico or Munequitos. Pay attention to the space they leave, allowing the drum notes to naturally sustain. It’s a truly beautiful element that seems to be lacking in today’s music, in my humble opinion. I, for one, am tired of hearing people simply showcasing their ability to play rolls at different speeds – fast, faster, and fastest.

Let’s get back to the root system, where the heart and soul of rhythm resides.