Finger drummers vary in their approach to performance, ranging from those who play along to loops or backing tracks, focusing solely on the drums, to purists who perform every element live, including bass, drums, and melodic elements. The finger drumming community thrives online, gathering enthusiasts worldwide for festivals, events, tournaments, and workshops. Social media platforms, particularly Instagram and TikTok, provide a perfect stage for showcasing finger drumming skills. Moreover, finger drumming isn't limited to standalone performances — it often complements DJ sets and live acts, offering a blend of musical disciplines. THE ROOTS OF FINGER DRUMMING The precise origins of finger drumming are challenging to pinpoint. The precursor to modern finger drumming can be traced to the use of pad- samplers in '90s hip-hop production, notably the MPC by AKAI. Producers like J Dilla would drum their beats on the MPC, establishing a distinctive swung sound. Going further back, drummers like Joe Morello in 1967 showcased early finger drumming in a drum solo. Influential performances in the early 2000s, such as DJ Shadow, Cut Chemist, and DJ Numark's "Pushing Buttons," integrated finger drumming techniques into their routines, blurring the lines between turntablism and finger drumming. Erykah Badu, a prominent R&B and soul artist, showcased finger drumming techniques as early as 2008 in her performances, highlighting the technique's roots in live drum machine solos.
However, it was the wave of viral videos between 2007 and 2012 featuring performers like araabMUZIK, Jeremy Ellis, and David “Fingers” Haynes that brought finger drumming to the forefront. These videos, often shot in close-up, captured the imagination of viewers, showcasing the exciting possibilities of finger drumming. FINGER DRUMMING TODAY Over the past decade, finger drumming has gained substantial popularity, propelled by the growth of social media and video sharing platforms. Online communities and platforms like Sample Music Festival, Goldie Awards, and King Of Flip battle have emerged as meeting grounds for finger drummers, turntablists, and digital music performers. These platforms host competitions, workshops, and showcases, fostering a sense of community and encouraging new talent. Education and learning have become more accessible with apps like Melodics, which gamify the learning process and provide a structured approach to mastering finger drumming skills. Artists like Beats by Jblack have not only showcased their expertise but are also passing on their knowledge through online academies, nurturing the next generation of finger drummers.
sound press October 2023 |
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