Djembe Solo Jam - Western Contemporary Funk Fusion Drumset Style

Djembe lesson: Learn how to play the djembe like a drum set. Journey into the djembe with David and enjoy the trancey funky rhythmic drumset motif. The djembe is truly the most versatile drum in the world, because of its ability to emulate so many aspects of the drum set. The tambourine adds the cymbal element which compliments the djembe to complete the drum set. The tambourine is mounted to an LP Gajate Foot Pedal Bracket. Hopefully this video will introduce people to some of the possibilities when it comes to playing the djembe and tambourine, which is a truly special combination.

This funky style isn't exactly what you'll find in West Africa, Mali, Ghana or Senegal, but rather in America. Of course I encourage everyone to explore the amazing African roots and styles of this incredible drum. This video is for people who are interested in learning how to apply this beautiful instrument to modern American music.

Notice the application of rudiments, such as double strokes, various diddles, 3 & 4 stroke rolls and the heal toe technique mostly found in conga playing. Most African djembe players focus mainly on single stroke combinations, probably to get the maximum volume out of the instrument.

Also by hitting the edge of the drum with the finger tips, while holding the other hand in various spots and distances away from the center of the head produces an interesting flange effect. This works especially well with synthetic heads and machine tuned djembes, which already tend to ring out more. If you want to see how the authentic African djembe players get great tones, check out Kassoumsanogo who is incredible!

Always start off by practicing slowly to a metronome to develop muscle memory. This leads to even and accurate playing in the shortest amount of time.