If you’re a drummer looking to cover or interpret Kate Bush’s iconic song “Running Up That Hill,” this listicle is for you. Whether you’re a seasoned session player, a band member, or a solo artist, understanding the nuances of the drum parts can elevate your performance. Here, we’ll explore ten different approaches, techniques, and considerations to help you choose the right drum style for this classic track, along with tips on how to select the best fit and answer common questions along the way.
1. The Original Studio Drum Sound
The studio version of “Running Up That Hill” features a drum sound characterized by a punchy, tight snare and a steady kick drum that anchors the track. The drum pattern is relatively minimalistic, emphasizing a steady four-on-the-floor beat with subtle fills. Replicating this sound requires high-quality recording techniques, a good room for natural reverb, and careful mixing to match Kate Bush’s atmospheric production. This approach is ideal if you aim to preserve the song’s authentic feel and emotional impact.
2. A Funk-Inspired Groove
Adding a funk-inspired groove to the song involves incorporating syncopated hi-hat patterns, ghost notes on the snare, and a more prominent bass drum placement. This approach gives the track a more energetic and danceable vibe while maintaining the song’s emotional core. Drummers like Clyde Stubblefield or Bernard Purdie mastered this style, and emulating their techniques can add a fresh, rhythmic twist that resonates with modern audiences.
3. A Progressive Rock Drumming Style
For a more dynamic and complex interpretation, adopting a progressive rock style involves odd time signatures, frequent fills, and dynamic shifts in intensity. Think of drummers like Bill Bruford or Neil Peart, who excelled at blending technical proficiency with musical storytelling. This approach challenges the drummer to bring a theatrical and intricate layer to the song, making it suitable for live performances or creative reinterpretations.
4. Electronic and Synth-Driven Drumming
Given the song’s atmospheric qualities, integrating electronic drums or triggering samples can create a lush, textured soundscape. Using drum pads, MIDI controllers, or software plugins allows for precise control over sound layering and effects. This style suits producers or performers aiming for a modern, ambient take that emphasizes the song’s ethereal mood while maintaining rhythmic pulse.
5. A Minimalist Approach
Strip the drum pattern down to its bare essentials—perhaps just a simple kick and snare with subtle cymbal accents. This approach highlights the song’s lyrical and melodic elements, giving space for other instruments and vocals to breathe. Minimalist drumming suits acoustic performances or intimate settings, emphasizing emotional delivery over technical complexity.
6. A Heavy, Rock-Driven Version
Transforming the track into a heavier rock rendition involves boosting the drum kit’s volume, adding powerful fills, and emphasizing the backbeat with a strong snare and crash cymbals. Think of bands like Nine Inch Nails or Garbage, who have reinterpreted atmospheric tracks into grunge or alternative rock. This approach energizes the song and appeals to audiences seeking a more aggressive, high-intensity experience.
7. Vintage Drum Kit Emulation
Recreating the drum sound of the late 1970s, when the song was released, involves using vintage drum kits or emulating their characteristics through digital plugins. Look for sounds from Ludwig, Gretsch, or Rogers kits, combined with vintage cymbals like Zildjian K or Sabian. This approach lends authenticity and nostalgic warmth to your performance, perfect for tribute acts or period-specific recordings.
8. Percussion-Heavy Interpretation
Adding congas, bongos, or auxiliary percussion like shakers and tambourines can enrich the rhythmic texture. This approach broadens the song’s sonic palette and introduces world-music influences, making the rhythm more layered and complex. It’s especially effective in live settings or experimental covers where the goal is to create a unique, immersive experience.
9. Hybrid Style: Acoustic Meets Electronic
This approach combines live acoustic drums with electronic elements—triggered samples, loops, or effects—to create a hybrid sound. For example, a live snare could be layered with electronically processed sounds to produce a richer, more textured drumscape. This method offers versatility and modern appeal, suitable for studio recordings or innovative live performances.
10. How to Choose
When selecting the right drum style for “Running Up That Hill,” consider the overall mood you want to convey. Think about your skill level, the context of your performance, and whether you aim to replicate the original or reinterpret it creatively. The instrumentation, audience, and your personal style all play crucial roles in making the best choice. Listening to different versions and experimenting with various approaches can help you identify what fits your vision best.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a standard drum kit to cover “Running Up That Hill”?
Yes, a standard acoustic drum kit with a kick, snare, hi-hat, and cymbals is sufficient for most interpretations. Focus on capturing the song’s steady rhythm and subtle dynamics to stay true to the original.
2. What tempo should I set for a cover?
The original track is approximately 102 BPM. Adjusting slightly faster or slower depends on your interpretation, but maintaining a similar tempo ensures authenticity.
3. Are electronic drums appropriate for this song?
Absolutely. Electronic drums can replicate the atmospheric qualities and allow for creative sound design, especially if you’re aiming for a modern or ambient version.
4. How important are fills in recreating the song?
While the original has minimal fills, adding subtle fills can personalize your cover and enhance dynamics, especially during transitions or build-ups.
5. Should I focus on replicating the original or making it my own?
It depends on your goal. For authenticity, replicate the original. For creative expression, experiment with different styles and techniques to make the song unique.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right drum approach for “Running Up That Hill” hinges on your artistic vision, technical skills, and the context of your performance. Whether you aim to faithfully reproduce Kate Bush’s atmospheric sound or reinterpret the track with a modern, energetic twist, understanding the nuances of various drumming styles empowers you to deliver a compelling rendition. Experimenting with different techniques and listening to diverse influences can help you craft a version that resonates both emotionally and rhythmically, ensuring your performance stands out.
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