This month, Modern Drummer is proud to induct Jim Keltner into the Hall of Fame! When I heard the news, I jumped at the chance to transcribe Jim’s masterful performance on Steely Dan’s “Josie.” The groove he lays down on this track is irresistibly funky—and there’s far more going on beneath the surface than a casual listen reveals. The pocket is deep, the funk undeniable, and beneath the surface lies a level of nuance that only a careful listen—or a close transcription—can reveal. Many have covered this song over the years, yet few capture the funky swing and elasticity of the original recording.  What is the secret sauce? In my opinion it’s Jim’s hi-hat work. It’s not merely keeping time it’s shaping it. The hi-hat is not a steady eighth-note pulse, but a syncopated pattern built around intentional space. Each note is carefully placed, and the moments he leaves open are […]

December 2025 Issue