There She Goes by The La's on Drums: A Complete Guide

If you’re a music enthusiast, a drummer looking to replicate classic hits, or a fan of The La’s, this guide dives deep into the iconic drum track of “There She Goes.” We’ll explore the essential aspects of the drum performance, gear used, and how to capture that distinctive sound. Whether you’re aiming to learn the song, understand its production, or just appreciate its rhythm, this listicle covers everything you need to know about “There She Goes” by The La’s on drums.

1. The Classic Drum Intro: Ringo-esque Simplicity

The opening drum pattern of “There She Goes” is deceptively simple, yet incredibly effective. Played by Paul Hemmings, it features a steady, driving rhythm with a focus on snare hits and hi-hat accents that set the song’s upbeat tone. This minimalist approach contributes to the song’s infectious energy and makes it easy for aspiring drummers to emulate while still sounding authentic.

2. The Snare Work: Emphasizing Backbeat

Hemmings’ snare hits are crucial to the song’s groove, emphasizing the backbeat on beats 2 and 4. The snare drum is tuned to a bright, punchy tone that cuts through the mix, giving the rhythm a lively bounce. This focus on snare placement is a key element that gives the song its signature bounce and helps drive the overall momentum.

3. The Hi-Hat Pattern: Keeping the Pulse

The hi-hat maintains a steady eighth-note pattern throughout the track, with occasional open hi-hat accents that add dynamic variation. The use of closed hi-hat closures creates a tight, consistent rhythm, while open hi-hat hits introduce a splash of energy that elevates the groove. Mastering this pattern is essential for capturing the song’s infectious feel.

4. The Use of Kick Drum: Foundation of the Rhythm

The bass drum in “There She Goes” provides a consistent pulse that anchors the entire rhythm section. Played with a straightforward pattern on beats 1 and 3, Hemmings’ kick drum work is subtle but vital. Recreating this kick pattern is key to achieving the song’s driving rhythm, especially when aiming to replicate the energetic live feel.

5. The Drum Sound: Vintage & Bright

The drum tone in the original recording has a bright, vintage character typical of the late 1980s. It features a slightly compressed snare, a punchy kick, and cymbals with a shimmering quality. To replicate this sound, use a vintage-style drum kit or sample packs that emulate that era’s tone, alongside appropriate EQ and compression settings.

6. The Drum Kit: What Was Used?

While the exact kit used by Paul Hemmings isn’t publicly documented, it’s believed he used a standard 1980s rock setup, likely a Ludwig or Premier kit with bright-sounding cymbals like Zildjian A series. Modern drummers can approximate this sound with a similar vintage kit or high-quality samples, focusing on bright, articulate drums and cymbals.

7. Playing Along: Tips for Replication

To emulate Hemmings’ style, focus on maintaining a steady tempo, emphasizing the backbeat, and keeping your hi-hat tight and controlled. Listening closely to the original track helps you pick up subtle nuances, such as the slight variations in hi-hat opens and the feel of the snare hits. Practice with a metronome to perfect timing and develop the groove that makes the song so compelling.

8. Covering the Song: Gear Recommendations

For a faithful cover, consider a bright-sounding vintage drum kit, such as a Ludwig Classic Maple or a Yamaha Recording Custom. Use medium-weight heads to achieve a punchy tone, and choose cymbals like Zildjian A Series or Sabian AAX for that shimmering sound. Mic placement and mixing are also crucial for capturing the bright, punchy drum tone characteristic of the original recording.

9. Live vs. Studio Drumming

In live performances, Hemmings maintained the song’s energy with slight variations in dynamics and fills, adding a human touch. Studio recordings tend to be more precise, with additional layering and processing. Whether playing live or in the studio, focus on the song’s groove and maintaining a steady rhythm to keep the energy consistent.

10. The Cultural Impact of the Drums on “There She Goes”

The drum pattern in “There She Goes” has become iconic, influencing countless indie and alternative bands. Its straightforward yet infectious groove encapsulates the song’s joyful, rebellious spirit. Understanding the drum work helps appreciate how rhythm can define a song’s identity and emotional impact.

How to Choose

When selecting drums or gear to replicate “There She Goes,” prioritize vintage-style instruments and bright cymbals that match the song’s tone. Consider your skill level: a simple setup with a 4-piece kit and standard cymbals can suffice for beginners, while advanced players might explore more nuanced tuning and mic techniques. Ultimately, focus on capturing the song’s energetic, punchy feel rather than just copying exact equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What drum kit did Paul Hemmings use for “There She Goes”? While not officially documented, he likely used a standard 1980s rock kit, possibly Ludwig or Premier, with bright cymbals.
Can I recreate the drum sound with modern equipment? Yes, using vintage-style drums, bright cymbals, and proper EQ and compression can help replicate the original tone.
What tempo is “There She Goes” played at? The song typically runs around 124 BPM, which is ideal for capturing its energetic drive.
Are there any specific fills or variations in the song? The song features subtle fills during transitions, but the core groove remains consistent, emphasizing simplicity and rhythm.
How important is the hi-hat pattern? Extremely important; it drives the song’s pulse and adds subtle dynamic variation, making it essential to master.
Where can I find drum tabs or sheet music for this song? Official transcriptions are rare; listening closely and transcribing by ear is often the best approach for this track.

Final Thoughts

“There She Goes” by The La’s offers more than just a catchy melody; its drum pattern exemplifies how simplicity and groove can create an enduring hit. Whether you’re a drummer aiming to emulate Hemmings’ style, a producer seeking to capture that vintage sound, or a fan appreciating the song’s rhythmic backbone, understanding these elements enhances your appreciation and ability to recreate the magic. Focus on maintaining the song’s lively energy, pay attention to the details of the drum tone, and don’t be afraid to put your own spin on the groove—after all, that’s what keeps music alive and exciting.

There She Goes by The La’s on Drums: A Complete Guide