Music Lesson: "My Name Is" by Eminem

Introduction

"My Name Is" is a classic track by hip-hop artist Eminem. The original recording features a programmed drum machine, giving it a very electronic sound. When performed live, the drummer Devin Webster often plays, providing a slightly different feel compared to the original recording.

Key Features of the Track

• Drum Feel: The track has a quarter note feel, characterized by a lot of bass drum unison with the snare.
• Playability: While playing quarter notes is technically easier than more complex patterns, it can be challenging for timekeeping. Therefore, thinking in eighth notes while playing quarter notes is crucial.

Thinking in Eighth Notes:

• As you play quarter notes, think:

  "1, 2, 3, 4, and boom, ba, ba, boom, ba"

Important Techniques

Timekeeping

• Slow Tempo Challenge: Quarter notes at a slow tempo can be very difficult, even for professional drummers. Focus on filling the spaces and maintaining a steady time.

Bass Drum Technique

• Unison with Snare Drum: Pay special attention to the unison bass drums and recurring groups of three followed by single strokes with the snare on two and four.
• Bass Drum Positioning: Leave the bass drum beater on the head to ensure a tight sound.

  "It's just feels good to do that."

Hi-Hat and Snare

• Play with a heavy hi-hat and a big rim shot on the snare to create a strong sound.

  "This is how I would play this. Something like this. 1, 2, 3, 4."

Playing Dynamics

• Adjust the volume and maintain a precise feel while avoiding a "flam" sound.
• Be cautious of timing as you transition between sections:
  • From A to B Section: Transitioning from quarter notes to eighth notes.
  • Maintain a constant flow of time.

Feel of the Track

• Even though "My Name Is" is a machine program, it maintains a swing feel.
• Emphasize the internal rhythm:

  "Doo doo bad ba doo doo bad ba doo doo."

Practice Tips

• Focus on Unisons: Ensure that your bass drum and snare work tightly together.
• Avoid Flam Feel: Keep the unison figures crisp.
• Practice sections repeatedly before piecing the entire track together.

Conclusion

Have fun with this track! Listen carefully to the original, and don't hesitate to practice with a backing track. Enjoy the process of mastering "My Name Is"!