When I was a young drummer, practicing with records was very difficult. Headphones and stereo sets were not available. I would turn up the volume on my small record player to the point where I could hear it over the volume of my drumset. I must admit that this was not a very satisfactory way to practice. I could not play naturally and still hear the music. I have heard the comment that “it is not good to practice with records. You should not follow the band. You should, instead, establish the time yourself.” However, Phil Upchurch, the great guitarist and bass player, has a different view. (Phil also plays drums surprisingly well.) He feels that too many young drummers play without listening to what is going on around them. Phil’s attitude is that a good drummer has to play with other musicians. Practicing with records can be an excellent […]

January 1984 Issue