If you’re a Nirvana fan and a drummer, you’re probably itching to learn some of their classic songs. And one of their most iconic tracks is undoubtedly "Come as You Are." Lucky for you, we have you covered with our free drum sheet music for this legendary song. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the song's drum parts and help you master the powerful rhythm of "Come as You Are."
What You Will Need
To get started, you will need the following materials:
- A drum set
- A printed copy of our free drum sheet music for "Come as You Are"
- Headphones or speakers to play along with the original track
The Intro
The song begins with a simple drum beat that sets the tone for what’s to come. The beat consists of a steady kick drum on beats 1 and 3, accompanied by a closed hi-hat pattern on beats 2 and 4. Take your time to familiarize yourself with this intro rhythm and practice it until it feels natural.
The Verses
As the song progresses into the verses, the drum part becomes more intricate. You'll need to incorporate the snare drum and toms into your playing. The key is to maintain a tight and controlled rhythm while adding a punchy feel to the song. Pay close attention to the dynamics, emphasizing powerful accents where needed.
The Pre-Chorus and Chorus
The pre-chorus and chorus sections of "Come as You Are" are where the energy ramps up. Here, you'll unleash your drumming skills with powerful fills and a heavier beat. The snare drum and crash cymbals play a prominent role, adding an explosive sound to the song. Keep the tempo steady and be sure to nail those fills for an authentic Nirvana sound.
The Bridge
The bridge section provides a nice contrast to the rest of the song. You'll switch to a half-time feel, creating a more spacious sound. Focus on keeping the groove steady while incorporating ghost notes on the snare to add texture. This section might take some practice to perfect, but once you have it down, it will make the overall song shine.
Putting It All Together
Now that you have a breakdown of the different drum parts, it's time to put them all together. Start by practicing each section separately, ensuring that you have a solid grasp on the individual patterns. Then, gradually bring them together, transitioning smoothly between each part. Don't forget to play along with the original song to get the full experience and match your timing with the band.
Learning Nirvana's "Come as You Are" on the drums is an incredibly rewarding experience. The song showcases the band's signature sound and gives drummers the opportunity to showcase their skills. By using our free drum sheet music and following our guide, you'll be well on your way to mastering this classic track. So, grab your drumsticks, set up your kit, and let's rock out to "Come as You Are"!