Metallica, one of the most influential heavy metal bands in history, has inspired countless drummers with their powerful and dynamic rhythms. While Lars Ulrich, the band’s drummer, is known for his intense and complex drumming, there are several Metallica songs that are relatively accessible for beginner and intermediate drummers. These songs offer a great introduction to the band’s style without being overwhelmingly difficult. In this article, we’ll explore the 12 easiest Metallica songs on drums, discussing the key elements of each track, and offering tips on how to approach them.
The 12 Easiest Metallica Songs on Drums
1. For Whom the Bell Tolls
“For Whom the Bell Tolls” is often recommended as one of the easiest Metallica songs to learn on drums. The song features a steady tempo and straightforward rhythms that are ideal for beginners. The main groove consists of a simple beat with a focus on the kick drum and snare, while the chorus introduces a few fills that are manageable but still provide a challenge.
Tempo: Moderate
Key Techniques: Basic rock beat, simple fills
Tips: Focus on maintaining a consistent tempo and cleanly executing the fills. This song is perfect for practicing control and timing.
2. Enter Sandman
“Enter Sandman” is one of Metallica’s most iconic songs and is also a great entry point for drummers. The song’s main rhythm is built around a simple rock beat with an emphasis on the snare and kick. The chorus and bridge sections introduce some variations, but they remain accessible for beginners.
Tempo: Moderate
Key Techniques: Rock beat with snare accents, basic fills
Tips: Pay attention to the dynamic changes in the song. Practicing with a metronome can help you keep a steady pace throughout.
3. Sad But True
“Sad But True” is another Metallica classic that is well-suited for beginner drummers. The song’s slower tempo and heavy, deliberate beat make it easier to master than some of the band’s faster tracks. The rhythm is straightforward, with a strong focus on the kick drum and snare.
Tempo: Slow
Key Techniques: Heavy rock beat, syncopated kick patterns
Tips: Focus on hitting the drums with power and precision to match the song’s heavy feel. The syncopated kick pattern might require some practice, so start slow and gradually build up speed.
4. Nothing Else Matters
“Nothing Else Matters” is a ballad that differs from Metallica’s usual heavy and fast-paced style. The song features a slow tempo and a relatively simple drum pattern, making it one of the easier tracks to play. The drumming is mostly supportive, with gentle cymbal work and minimalistic fills.
Tempo: Slow
Key Techniques: Light cymbal work, basic fills
Tips: Focus on maintaining a smooth and even touch on the drums. The drumming should complement the song’s soft and melodic nature, so avoid overplaying.
5. The Unforgiven
“The Unforgiven” combines a moderate tempo with a straightforward rhythm that makes it accessible for beginners. The song features a mix of light cymbal work and simple snare patterns. The chorus introduces some slightly more complex fills, but they remain within reach for less experienced drummers.
Tempo: Moderate
Key Techniques: Basic rock beat, cymbal accents, simple fills
Tips: Practice the transitions between the verse and chorus to ensure smooth changes in dynamics. The song is a good opportunity to work on playing with emotion and feel.
6. Wherever I May Roam
“Wherever I May Roam” is another Metallica song that offers a manageable challenge for drummers. The main rhythm is based on a steady rock beat with occasional tom fills. The song’s tempo is moderate, and the patterns are repetitive, making it easier to learn and memorize.
Tempo: Moderate
Key Techniques: Rock beat with tom fills, syncopated rhythms
Tips: Focus on keeping a consistent groove and practice the tom fills separately to ensure they are smooth and in time with the rest of the beat.
7. Fade to Black
“Fade to Black” is a semi-ballad that features a combination of slow and moderate tempos. The drumming is relatively simple, with a focus on supporting the song’s melodic structure. The fills are sparse and easy to execute, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
Tempo: Slow to Moderate
Key Techniques: Basic beat, simple fills, light cymbal work
Tips: Work on playing the fills with precision and timing. The song’s dynamic changes require careful attention to the volume and intensity of your playing.
8. King Nothing
“King Nothing” is a track from Metallica’s mid-90s period that features a straightforward and steady beat. The song’s groove is built around a simple rock beat with a few variations and fills. The moderate tempo and repetitive patterns make it accessible for beginner drummers.
Tempo: Moderate
Key Techniques: Rock beat, syncopated kick drum patterns, basic fills
Tips: Practice the syncopated kick drum patterns separately to ensure they are tight and in time with the rest of the groove. The song’s repetitive structure makes it easier to focus on refining your technique.
9. Harvester of Sorrow
“Harvester of Sorrow” is a slower, heavier track that features a simple but powerful drum pattern. The song’s rhythm is based on a straightforward beat with heavy emphasis on the snare and kick. The fills are minimal and easy to execute, making it a good choice for beginners.
Tempo: Slow
Key Techniques: Heavy rock beat, simple fills
Tips: Focus on hitting the drums with power and consistency. The song’s slower tempo allows you to concentrate on the precision and timing of your playing.
10. Seek & Destroy
“Seek & Destroy” is a classic Metallica track that is often played at a moderate tempo. The main rhythm is based on a simple rock beat, with some variations in the chorus and bridge sections. The fills are straightforward, and the song’s structure is repetitive, making it easier to learn.
Tempo: Moderate
Key Techniques: Basic rock beat, snare accents, simple fills
Tips: Pay attention to the transitions between sections to ensure they are smooth. The song’s straightforward structure allows you to focus on refining your timing and dynamics.
11. Creeping Death
“Creeping Death” is one of Metallica’s faster songs, but it features a straightforward rhythm that makes it accessible for intermediate drummers. The main groove is based on a driving beat with simple snare and kick patterns. The fills are slightly more complex, but they are manageable with practice.
Tempo: Fast
Key Techniques: Driving rock beat, snare and kick patterns, moderate fills
Tips: Start by practicing the main beat at a slower tempo before gradually increasing speed. The song’s energy requires consistent timing and stamina.
12. The Memory Remains
“The Memory Remains” is a mid-tempo track that features a simple but effective drum pattern. The song’s groove is built around a basic rock beat with some variations in the chorus. The fills are straightforward, making it a good choice for drummers looking to build their confidence.
Tempo: Moderate
Key Techniques: Rock beat, snare accents, basic fills
Tips: Practice the transitions between the verse and chorus to ensure smooth changes in dynamics. Focus on playing with consistency and maintaining a steady tempo throughout.
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Conclusion
Metallica’s extensive catalog offers a wide range of drumming challenges, but there are plenty of songs that are accessible for beginners and intermediate players. The 12 songs listed above provide a great starting point for drummers looking to get into Metallica’s music. By focusing on these tracks, you can build your confidence and technique before moving on to more complex songs in the band’s repertoire. Remember to practice regularly, pay attention to your timing and dynamics, and most importantly, have fun playing along with one of the greatest metal bands of all time.
