The “skipping” syncopation only feel like they skip along over the top of the groove, like a rock bouncing over the surface of the water. Like jazz ride patterns or shuffles used on blues tunes, the following example impacts reggae songs a lot for just a slight shift in the rhythms or dynamics. These variations can also be good opportunities to phrase songs in unique ways. You can vary the rhythm or the accents, and by doing so, you can establish different styles. The shuffle patterns come in several variations. It’s more common in the “rockers reggae,” but you can use it on any type of reggae drum beat. Since most reggae drum beats have a swing feel, straight patterns are more common with faster reggae grooves. Straight patternĪ straight pattern may sound ordinary or even boring. The hi-hat variations are more so in terms of rhythm and feel. You change up the accents a little but not too much because the groove relies on the upbeat emphasis.

Many of the variations on these three beats come in the form of different hi-hat or snare drum patterns. If you’re interested in more about the “money beat,” check out this article that explains the basic beat and other variations. The kick drum is on 1 and 3, while the snare is on beats 2 and 4. The “rockers” reggae beat is the money beat. The kick drum is on all four downbeats in each measure, leaving lots of opportunity to vary the rhythms that dance on top via the snare, toms, cymbals, and percussion. This is the “four on the floor” of reggae drum beats. This element of the drum beat supports the other rhythm section instruments, like guitar and keys. The upbeat accents on hi-hat are another important feature of the reggae groove. It’s emphasis is opposite the common backbeat with its heavy kick on beats 1 and 3, placing the kick on 2 and 4 - beat 3 for how I’ve chosen to notate it below.

The “one drop” is the most recognizable reggae beat for drum set.

Reggae drum kit notation