The Commandments of Early Rhythm and Blues Drumming delves into the R&B music of the 1940s and ’50s, an incredible musical era when shuffles ruled the airwaves and modern groove playing was in its infancy.
Written by Zoro and Daniel Glass, this 152-page book has come to be known as "The Shuffles Bible." The Commandments Book includes a step-by-step guide to developing a killer shuffle feel, with more than 100 transcribed grooves and 11 play-along tracks.
Right now, while you're taking the course and really absorbing yourself in the world of shuffles, I'm offering the Commandments Book at a special 20% discount. Click the button below to order.
The Commandments of Early Rhythm and Blues Drumming was the FIRST PLACE WINNER in both the Modern Drummer and DRUM Magazine Readers' Poll awards.
Since its release in 2009, this book has become a "must-have," because it demonstrates how shuffles play a key role in every style of popular music today, including Rock, Funk, Hip Hop, Metal, Country, and Ska/Reggae. Learning more about shuffles will help any drummer play these modern styles with greater authority and nuance.
What's Inside The Book
- An in-depth, historical study of the major Rhythm and Blues styles from the 1940s and '50s.
- A comprehensive, step-by-step guide to playing shuffles.
- CD featuring more than 100 authentic groove and fill examples, plus 11 play-along tracks with charts.
- Featured styles include: Swing, Boogie-Woogie, Jump Blues, Chicago Blues, New Orleans R&B, Texas Blues, "Faux" Latin, Gospel, Early Rock'n'Roll (Bo Diddley Beat, Surf Beat, etc).
- Rare photos of legendary R&B greats.
- Advanced shuffle patterns and soloing ideas.
- Tips for adopting R&B grooves into contemporary styles like Hip Hop, Metal, Country, Ska/Reggae.
- R&B listening and repertoire guides, plus historical charts and an overview of R&B independent record labels.
- Overview of other important elements of early R&B: brush playing, organ groups, Lounge/Exotica music and Doo-Wop.
What People Are Saying
Modern Drummer Magazine
“This book/CD package is well researched, clear in its goals, and enlightening and inspiring in its approach. As the drummer for Royal Crown Revue, one of the prominent neo-swing bands of the 1990s, Daniel Glass has been steeped in these musical waters for years. Keep this one close by; you’re going to want to return to it again and again.”
4 1/2 stars (out of 5)
Dom Famularo
"I am so impressed with what Daniel and Zoro have done to secure the heritage of the modern drum set - every inspired drummer needs to experience and learn from this masterpiece. Thank you both for your hard work, so that generations ahead of us can forever enjoy this magical era!"
- Dom Famularo, Drumming's Global Ambassador
Mike Clark
What a great surprise to meet Daniel Glass and and hear his music. This book is just what the doctor ordered if you want to know about blues, funk and New Orleans drumming. These grooves have always been elusive to play and Daniel nails them; his feel jumps out at you as totally authentic. I grew up on these records so I know the real deal when I hear it. This book is essential for anyone who is serious about understanding the development of music with soul.
- Mike Clark (legendary drummer with Herbie Hancock's Headhunters)
Peter Erskine
"A wonderful resource and an excellent book!"
- Peter Erskine (legendary drummer with Weather Report, Joni Mitchell, Steely Dan)
Freddie Gruber
"Simply amazing, man!"
- Freddie Gruber (legendary educator)
Danny B.
"Daniel, I am really enjoying the work that you and Zoro are doing in bringing the history of drumming to the younger generation. I have been playing drums for over 40 years and never really knew exactly what all my drumming heroes were playing because you couldn't hear it on the records. This book is a breakthrough! At rehearsal, everyone in the band had a smile on their face because the songs were finally sounding right!!"
- Danny B, Ontario, Canada
