South Of The Border — Latin Rock Patterns

In this article I’ll deal with a technique popularized by Steve Gadd, that incorporates Latin rhythms with contemporary drumset patterns.

First, we’ll look at the cowbell rhythm used most often by Steve, in comparison to the more frequently played cowbell rhythm.

Gadd cowbell rhythm. (Played with right hand.)

Most common rhythm.

In many of Steve Gadd’s cowbell patterns this basic rhythm is used, but often it’s disguised by the placement of his left hand and accents. The following patterns are combination parts of these cowbell rhythms and other Latin rhythms.

Notice in the following pattern the same basic rhythm found in Ex. 3.

Next, let’s look at the samba pattern most often used by Gadd.

The following samba patterns are also very effective.