its a really interesting song, what I hear is a shift that causes the guitar and piano to serve as the glue of the song, that way the rythym section can come forward and be more intricate
Sting's bass part helps - it's written really well, but it's also recorded on two basses layered over top of one another. One's fretted & one's definitely fretless. The fretless gives much more expression with the sliding between notes and intonation.
It was definitely a distinctive drum sound. I remember hearing that was attributive to tightening the nuts one up - thats why his kit sounded like nothing I'd/we've heard before.
Copeland’s hats are so badass that Peter Gabriel had him play JUST hi-hats on “Red Rain,” and within the first measure of the song you know it’s Stewart Copeland playing. Very few drummers have such a personal signature.
Perfectly played. So many people take liberties with SCs playing, himself included seeing as he never plays the same thing twice live, but the style and feel was masterfully delivered. Well done.
That's my favorite way to hear music. The Allman Brothers Band was well-known for that. They *never* played anything the same way twice while live. It's also what makes it worth getting your hands on any live performance you can from them, since you get a different version of their songs every time. Them bring likely the first rock back to use 2 drummers was really cool, too. Duane Allman picked that trick up from James Brown. Duane said they also used 2 drummers so one cat didn't have to try and kill himself playing it all. By the end of the The Allman Brother Band's run last year, they had moved to 3 percussionists, something Duane was looking at doing when he was killed. So they eventually came full circle and fulfilled that vision of how he wanted the band. Duane actually wanted what amounted to an orchestra? to join the band, also from what I understand. That's why Gregg's solo album after Duane passed had that orchestra on it. Gregg did that for Duane because he had wanted that for ABB. I still don't think the world fully grasps just how much we lost when Duane Allman was killed that October day in Georgia in 1971. Smh. If only...
I absolutely agree. I was blown away when I first really listened to what he was doing. At the very beginning of the police , with their first big hit here in Germany SOS.
They were all perfect. With all their bitching and fighting they made some of the greatest music ever ! Unbelievable music . Wrapped around my finger is outstanding
But every one can do that, i resolve in the drums even without delay he does to use. To Caesar thats belong him, but every drummer can do that without delay.
Carter Beauford does a lot of that also. It’s like he’s a lead drummer. Don’t get me wrong, Beauford and Copeland got serious groove but they play their part with the intricacy, color and confidence of a soloist. Sorry just a guitar player😁🍻🤘
I saw The Police on their Ghost in the Machine tour and it was an amazing concert. They opened with “Message in a Bottle” then went directly into “Every Little Thing She does is Magic” which was a 1-2 knockout punch ! Stewart Copeland is a hard hitting force of nature and my favorite drummer to have seen perform live. Well done on your cover and tribute.
Not enough people know about Mr. Beatdown Brown. Such a flawless performance. The pocket, the feel, the technique, the dynamics, everything was spot on. This man has mastered the art of serving the song. I was thrilled to see him on Drumeo and I wish him nothing but an abundance of success. Truly astounding.
People always look at me like I'm crazy because the bridge to this song is probably my favorite music theme and I try to explain to people that the drumming in this bridge isn't straight forward with all the nuances. You play this perfectly, and although I will never be this caliber of drummer you inspire me to pursue my other endeavors. You are my hero, you definitely have the spirit in you.
Rob Brown you are the man! Whew, that was so tight. As you said drumming Hero's change with the times, over the span of my 40yrs of playing one drummer rises above all the others. For me that drummer is Gavin Harrison. As an adult, Gavin's playing inspired me to reach higher, to push myself, and to play the drums as a form of self expression.
Rob, you're one of MY heroes. I've been playing forever too. I love your playing. I love your teaching. I love the way you connect to us. Being watching for over a year now. You keep it real.
When he does those double hits on the toms twice, my hair stood up. It just sounded so freakin awesome!!! Awesome job man, you KILLED IT!!! Great accents on the ride, too, VERY nice!!
I've heard and used the word, 'Motivated', too many countless number of times, however you gave it a deeper meaning. Thank you Sir. Peace and God bless 2022
I’m a guitarist that has also played over 30yrs. Huge Police and SC fan. This cover and this man’s words made me smile and gave me some inspiration. You Sir, are motivating me to keep going 👍
Yeah. He could really get by with HH, snare, bass drum & it would still be something I’d want to listen to. Hell, I’d listen to Stew play a garbage can lid for that matter...
Dude! Same here. Ive been working on nailing Spirit of Radio for a year and I’m still hearing things that I was missing. Gonna do a reveal for the family tomorrow complete with fog machine and lasers. Neal, Stewart, Phil, and Keith were the 4 that got me going in 1985....
Heroes of the drum world - Bill Ward, Nicko McBrain, Clive Burr, Neil Peart, and now Rob Brown after seeing your Drumeo video about staying in the pocket and playing less, not more. "I'd rather be told to play more than to play less. I never want to be told to play less" (not verbatim)!!! That's an epic line for sure. I finally decided to take up drumming at the tender age of 63. Thankful for electronic drums, or I'd never have done that to my family.
I started out playing drums when I was six years old in my dads basement studio/office. In 1985 (I was 10-11 years old), my parents moved us to Las Vegas where there are no basements and no room in my new bedroom for my drum kit so I became a bassist… drummers/percussion will always hold my heart. That being said, my first and foremost drum hero is Stewart Copeland. He was the reason I begged my dad to buy me a drum set so early on. Watching Stewart was and still is mesmerizing… there are many more but he’s my favorite.
The children of Gaza motivate me to persevere. My obstacles are so small and insignificant compared to their Heroic struggles to overcome overwhelming hardships and injustice. Yet they prevail. My Heroes!!!✌️🎶
Rob has a pure love for his craft, a modern day master. If I had to choose one drummer for a hero (which is no easy task,so many) it would be Copland. Not only due to his incredible individualistic style but his ability to write music as well. Oh, and there’s that little thing where he has influenced generations of drummers, Rob, thank you brother 🤙🏼
Stewart Copeland , for a guy who founded one of the biggest 3 piece bands ever, is still a great musician and composer, and his feel for the drums is unprecedented 🖖
Stewart was my influence when I learned to play drums. Sadly have not played in many years but am now getting back into it. I follow his channel . Nice interpretation of playing this song.
I'm with you, Beat Down! I started drumming 5+ years ago, age 45 with no prior music experience. My motivators and inspirations are Ringo, Bonhan and Copeland, with Copeland being the last and the one I arrived at by myself. My older sister listened to The Beatles when I was 9-10, so I did; my older brother listened to Zeppelin when I was 13-14, so I did; and when I was in highschool and could drive myself, I listened to The Police when I was 15-16. Whenever I went to a live event, I stretched and ducked and craned so I could see the drummer. That's the only person I wanted to see. ~35 years later, sitting in a hotel room on a business trip, scrolling my FB feed, I saw Rockin' 1000 play Learn To Fly. I was awestruck. I watched is over and over an over till I had goosebumps and I literally was crying. I said to myself, "Why are you crying?" I answered myself, "because they are doing it, and you are not." I went on Amazon right then and ordered a practice pad and sticks; and before bed I called my wife and said, "cutie, I'm going to learn to play the drums." She said, "ok, do it." 5+ years later I have full (Tama, because Copeland and less expensive than Ludwig!) acoustic kit in the basement and I practice literally 1+ hours a day - every single day that I'm at home. I am lucky enough to have found many people to play with, and I play live regularly. Free-Drum-Lessons.com (Drumeo) and Rob Brown are what got me through my first 1.5 years of self-learning. I finally got a teacher/coach, not for the instruction but to help with what to work on next! I LOVE Beat Down Brown. This video is just icing on the cake.
Absolute perfect cover of this song - very nice! As for influences, I think Bobby Colomby put it best back in the 80s -"Take your influences, gather them, throw them in a big pot and then find out who you are."
I knew there had to be a deeper reason why your videos, lessons and overall vibe always kinda hit home with me. Of all of my many drum heros, Stewart Copeland had the biggest influence on me for many years.
Awesome! There are many, but growing up in the Bay Area in the ‘70s and ‘80s Dave Garibaldi from Tower of Power. I met him at a drum clinic in San Jose in my Senior year. Blown away.
My three drum heroes...Ringo, always smiling and playing within the context of a song. John Bonham, loud and a feel for the groove. And, my biggest hero is Neil Peart. Neil showed the technical possibilities and ambidexterity using both arms and both feet. But, Neil also took great "Care" in what he created.
Hi Robert MOVE COFFEE TO PROST-POSITION. And yes Neil Peart is a Musican who played Drums. The only one i know who used this electronic Marimba with his drumset. Aweful. Kind regards Norbert (Germany)
Besides being a great band from the moment I first heard the Police back in the late 70's, one of the things that stood out for me was Stewart Copeland's drumming. To my teenage ears it just sounded 'different', but in a good way. Rob, you pretty well nailed it.
Well played Rob! Stuart Copeland is one of those truly innovative drummers and a definite inspiration. I find my drumming hero's have three things in common: 1: Chops, 2: Unique Style, 3: Creativity.
Hey Rob. Outstanding vid yet again. My hero when I started was Alex Van Halen. He had a unique sound and came across as "quite different" in his style but instantly recognisable when he played. Stew C is obviously up there, as is Simon Phillips, especially during his time with Toto but seeing as I am more into the rock genre, I absolutely love Zak Starkey. Touring drummer with The Who for many many years. I didnt started playing until I was 15 so quite late getting into the drums. I'm now 58 and about 10 or 12 years ago I got bored and disillusioned with the music business and nearly chucked it all in. Then I went to see The Who on their Quadrophenia tour and saw them twice. Zak didnt play the UK leg of the tour in 2013 but I was lucky enough to see him when I was abroad in Montreal 2012 and wow ... he blew me away. We all think of Keith Moon when we mention the Who but Zak is such a perfect mordern power house and driving force behind that band that I just knew I had to play again. I have been back playing ever since and enjoying it just as much as when I first picked up a pair of sticks all those years ago. He was the inspiration I needed at that low time to get off my ass, stop feeling sorry for myself and get back in the groove and I've never looked back. You make great vids Mr Brown sir .... keep them coming because now that I'm on it once again, YOU also inspire me and so many others with our drumming so you have also become part of that inspirational chain. Watching your vids has resulted in me trying many different styles and techniques that I've never done before. This really helps to keep my interest alive and curiosity to branch outside of my comfort zone. Thank god for youtube and thank you for setting aside your time in helping others. Im sure I am not alone in feeling this 🙂
Stewart Copeland is one of my favorite drummers and now, my friend, so are you...well done. And you looked like you had a lotta fun playing this. Awesome job!
I love Stewart Copeland’s style so much! My uncle who drums professionally and drummed for Ray Charles created a documentary with him called “DDrum” about a full orchestral piece they composed! One of the most influential drummers from that generation if you ask me!
How nice it is to see and hear one of the best songs of " THE POLICE " perfectly percussed by a great drummer. Congratulation to you 👏👏👏👍👍💯💯. Best regards from Chile 🇨🇱🇨🇱
Great job Rob!!! My drumming hero's John Bonham Stewart Copeland Jerry & Phil Marotta Jeff Paracco Ian Paice that is just to name a few!! There are so many !! Great job on this drum cover Rob!! Cheers!!
In terms of drumming heroes of mine, I have several. Right now Keith Carlock is one of my faves. To name a few others: Matt Cameron, Steve Gadd, and the late Prince drummer, John Blackwell Jr.
As always, Awesome Playing Mr. Brown! The original reason was my absolute fascination with the band KISS, becoming inspired to begin my drumming journey began when I was 4 or 5, Peter Criss, was my Favorite member, next thing my parents knew, I was making drum sets out of cardboard boxes and the occasional pot or pan, pringles & peanut cans/jars, anything I thought resembled a drum enough. it wasn't until my 16th Birthday, that to my parents dismay, my Memere gifted my my very first, actual drumkit. I also have a list of Drumming "Heroes" too many too name. - All the Best
I completely agree with you on Stuart Copeland, so crisp! I would add Bernard Purdy to my list. His work with Aretha on "A rose in Spanish Harlem" set me on my path.
My drumming hero is also Stewart Copeland. I am an 80s musician and very fortunate to have developed my musical skills in the 80s as opposed to nowadays with the pre-programmed rubbish being mass produced. Quick story though , my freshman year in college I wrote letters to my three favorite drummers: Stewart Copeland Neil Peart and Phil Collins. Of the three only Neil wrote me back with a hand written postcard .on the front was a photo of him playing His drums floating on a barge in Canada and on the back he wrote his advice to me. Needless to say I will never forget receiving that postcard and that Neil Peart himself took time to hand write me , a college freshman in the middle of Arizona in 1986.
Rob, I'm quite a bit older than you and I was pro touring and recording drummer till I got hit by a car. There are unfortunately so many poor videos but your site and you're thinking, your spirit are beautiful. I saw the Police at CBGB, Copeland was beating the crap out of the kit.. For a guy who played traditional grip he sure hit hard and dead accuracy aim on the smallest drums. My original heroes not counting jazz here, Were Clive Bunker from Jethro Tull, Mitch Mitchell, and my real hero..ohh, John Bonham. I saw him play 19 times. Truly the most frightening human drummer that ever existed. It doesn't transfer to video though you had to be there to see it. Just like Copeland it just came out of him, he wasn't trying it was just there. He had the swing of a jazz drummer and the funk of a badass funk drummer. His body provided the power which was frightening. And that foot was indescribable. I'm getting back into drumming again as I am getting some offers at this late age Maybe go around the planet a couple more times on the road we'll see. I just wanted to tell you I love what you do I like your tips I like your approach I like how you explain things without being condescending, And obviously like myself and the people who follow you you have a great love of drums. Man do I understand that. Peace my brother. ps if you want to see Copeland at his peak try to find the 1985 Police reunion tour for live aid. They all come out in white and Copeland is absolutely unbelievable. You would really enjoy it. Keep up the great work. I'm trying to get my hand/wrists limber again and I get Lots of cool stuff from your videos. Cheers mate.
Yes, Copeland!; among the greats of that era. Required listening: R d'B's No Time this Time & Synchronicity's Murder by Numbers. Wonderful epilogue, Rob and a beautifully executed tribute. Thanks for a Most enjoyable and worthwhile post.
Awesome Rob, thanks a bunch!! 👍 Here are some of my heroes: Rob Brown, Stewart Copeland, Steve Gadd, Billy Cobham, Simon Phillips, Jeffrey Porcaro... to name just a few. All the best!
Everyone talking about the perfection with you play the song, I want to highlight the respect, admiration and emotion that an interpretation from your heart and passion. Thanks, without that this would have been just one more good video about a memorable drum base. Hugs from Buenos Aires, Argentina. ---- Todo el mundo hablando de la perfección con la que ejecutó el tema, yo quiero destacar el respeto, admiración y la emoción que me despertó una interpretación desde el corazón y la pasión. Gracias, sin eso este hubiese sido solo un buen video más sobre una base de batería memorable. Abrazos desde Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Thanks Rob , for share your personal experience with us . I admire Stewart too . You pass a good impression and carater . All good for you man . Hug from Bahia , Brasil . Certainly you enjoyed here too much . Our music have a enormous variantion of rithms .
Police was a band from another dimension.... They caught everyday people, musicians , drummers....And respected from all music fans no matter the style they love or prefer....And the genius of Steward Copeland is a chapter itself...
Its good to have heroes. when i was starting as a 17 year old fitness guy it was Dolph Lundgren or maybe Schwarzenegger to look up to. Now as a 44 year old guy starting on the drums for 9 months i like Chad Smith Ian Paice and also Steward Copeland and also Rob Brown and Thomas Lang. It helpt to keep motivated and keep practicing each day
Me personally this is the greatest police song. He is flawless. This was the first video I ever saw on MTV. When they played videos in the early eighties. Carter Beauford is alot like Stewart. My most inspiring drummers for me. Neil Peart, Alex Van Halen, Stewart Copland, Troy Luccketta, Scott Rockenfield, Carter Beauford obviously Bonham.
