If you’re looking to master the iconic drum pattern from “Take On Me” by a-ha, this guide is for drummers, musicians, and fans eager to replicate or perform this classic hit. We’ll explore the best drum setups, techniques, and tips to help you capture the song’s energetic and distinctive rhythm, whether you’re practicing at home or preparing for a live performance.
1. The Classic Drum Pattern: Emulating the 80s Vibe
The original song features a punchy, straightforward drum beat driven by a drum machine, but when played live or on real drums, it’s characterized by a steady eighth-note kick pattern combined with snappy snare hits on the 2 and 4. Using a vintage-sounding snare and tight hi-hat opens can help recreate that 80s synth-pop feel while giving your performance authenticity. This pattern is worth mastering because it forms the backbone of the song’s infectious energy and helps you connect with the iconic sound of the era.
2. Choosing the Right Drum Kit and Setup
For an authentic “Take On Me” drum cover, opt for a drum kit that can produce bright, punchy sounds, such as a Ludwig or Pearl kit with clear toms and a crisp snare. A 5-piece setup with a 22-inch bass drum, 12 and 14-inch toms, and a 14-inch snare offers enough versatility. Incorporate a high-quality cymbal set, especially bright crashes and a hi-hat with a tight opening, to mirror the song’s energetic feel. The right setup helps you execute the rhythm precisely and captures the song’s lively spirit.
3. Mastering the Hi-Hat Technique
The hi-hat plays a crucial role in maintaining the song’s driving rhythm. Use alternating closed and slightly open hi-hat strokes to emulate the drum machine’s sharp, consistent sound. Practice controlling your foot to keep the hi-hat tight during fast eighth notes, and experiment with opening it slightly on certain beats to add dynamic variation. A solid hi-hat technique ensures your performance remains lively and true to the original groove.
4. Incorporating the Fill and Accents
While the main pattern is simple, the song features subtle fills and accents that add excitement. Focus on small, precise fills in the transitions, especially before the chorus, using snare rolls or tom hits. Accent the backbeat (beats 2 and 4) with a slightly louder snare to emphasize the song’s danceable groove. These details elevate your performance from basic to authentic, capturing the song’s energetic build-up.
5. Using a Metronome for Precision
“Take On Me” relies on a tight, consistent rhythm, making a metronome essential during practice. Set it to the song’s tempo of approximately 168 BPM to develop your timing accuracy. Practicing with a metronome helps you internalize the beat, ensuring your performance remains steady, especially during fast sections. Precision timing is key to making your cover sound professional and true to the original.
6. Adding Dynamics and Feel
Despite its electronic origins, the song benefits from dynamic drum playing. Vary your volume slightly to mimic the song’s energetic peaks and more subdued verses. Pay attention to the song’s crescendo during the chorus, and increase your attack on the drums accordingly. Bringing a sense of feel and dynamics into your performance makes it more engaging and expressive, capturing the song’s emotional punch.
7. Practice the Song in Sections
Break the song into manageable parts: intro, verse, chorus, and bridge. Focus on mastering each section slowly before increasing your speed to match the original tempo. This methodical approach helps you internalize the rhythm and reduces mistakes during full-playthroughs. It’s especially helpful for complex fills or transitions that require precision and confidence.
8. Recording and Listening Back
Record your practice sessions to identify timing issues, dynamics, and overall feel. Listening back allows you to critique your performance objectively and make targeted improvements. Using a smartphone or digital recorder, aim to capture your most energetic take, then compare it to the original to see where you can tighten your timing or enhance your feel. Self-assessment is a powerful tool for refining your drum cover.
9. Adding Personal Flair
While authenticity is important, don’t hesitate to add your own touch—perhaps a slight variation in fills or a unique cymbal accent. This personalizes your performance and reflects your drumming style. Just ensure that these additions complement the song’s energy and don’t detract from its recognizable groove. A balance between faithful replication and personal expression makes your cover stand out.
10. Performing Live or Recording Your Cover
When performing live, focus on maintaining consistent tempo and energy. Use visual cues like the vocalist or guitarist to coordinate transitions. For recording, experiment with mic placement—close mics on snare and kick, overheads for cymbals—to capture a clear, punchy sound. Whether live or recorded, confidence and steady rhythm are what make your “Take On Me” drum rendition compelling and memorable.
How to Choose
Picking the right drum setup and techniques depends on your skill level, available equipment, and the sound you aim to achieve. Beginners should focus on a simple, reliable kit and basic pattern, while more experienced drummers can experiment with dynamic fills and nuanced hi-hat work. Consider whether you want an authentic retro sound or a modern twist, and choose your gear accordingly. Also, factor in your practice space and budget, as high-end gear can help capture the song’s crisp, energetic feel, but a good quality entry-level kit can suffice if you focus on technique.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I play “Take On Me” with electronic drums? Absolutely. The song’s original rhythm is driven by a drum machine, so electronic drums or drum pads can replicate the sound effectively.
- What tempo should I set for practice? Set your metronome to around 168 BPM, matching the original track’s speed, to develop accuracy and stamina.
- Are there specific drum fills I should learn? Focus on simple, rhythmic fills using your snare and toms, especially transitions into chorus sections, to mimic the song’s energetic build-up.
- How important is the snare sound? Very important; a crisp, bright snare helps emulate the punchy electronic feel and keeps the rhythm driving forward.
- Can I add my own style to the drum cover? Yes, adding subtle personal touches can make your performance unique, just ensure it still captures the song’s core groove.
- What are common mistakes to avoid? Rushing the tempo, neglecting hi-hat control, and overcomplicating fills can detract from the song’s feel. Focus on simplicity and timing.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the drum part for “Take On Me” by a-ha requires attention to detail, precise timing, and a good sense of dynamics. Whether you’re recreating the iconic 80s sound or putting your own spin on it, practicing with patience and focus will help you deliver a lively, authentic performance. Remember, the goal is to capture the song’s energy and groove—so keep it tight, fun, and true to the spirit of this timeless hit.
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