One of my all time favourite drummers has to be Steve Gadd. He is famous for his use of rudiments in his grooves and solos. One of his signature pieces is Paul Simon’s “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover”. This groove, roughly based on a paradiddle feel, sets the tone for the whole song.

50-ways-groove.jpg(Click to enlarge)

Here is Steve demonstrating the groove himself.

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and here is Steve performing the song live with Paul Simon.

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Like always, practice this one very slowly until you can play it smoothly before attempting it at pace. Smooth is the key!


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