Playing on Top of the Beat

by Patrick
(NYC)

If your groove is going well and your fill is slightly on top of the beat what does that mean, does it mean I'm rushing it or it's not the right fill.

ANSWER

Hi, Patrick--

It depends on HOW slightly you are on top of the beat at "1" after your fill.

If it is a 16th note, then either you are rushing your fill or you need another 16th note or rest in the fill.

The best thing to do is to write out your fill and be sure that there are enough beats. If there are, then try practicing your fill with the metronome.

By the way, there is nothing wrong with playing slightly on top of the beat. Good jazz drummers make it a practice because it give the music a "moving forward" kind of feel.

This does not mean rushing, but just consistently being ever so slightly ahead of the beat.

If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to ask. I am always willing to help!

Lynne