What is a drum fill?

A drum fill is a musical technique used in drumming to create a transitional or dramatic effect. It involves a rhythmic pattern played on the drums, typically leading into or out of a section of a song.

Drum fills can differ in complexity, length, and style, depending on the musical genre and drummer's personal style. They serve multiple purposes, including adding excitement, building anticipation, marking transitions between song sections, and showcasing the drummer's skill and creativity.

Common drum fill techniques include:

1. Roll: A rapid succession of drum hits, generally starting from the snare or toms and rolling across the drums.

2. Snare Accent: A single, powerful hit on the snare drum, typically used to mark the end of a section or to create a dramatic effect.

3. Tom Fills: A series of rhythmic patterns played on the tom-tom drums, providing a melodic or rhythmic diversion between sections.

4. Cymbal Crashes: Loud crashes on the cymbals to add emphasis and impact during a fill.

5. Drum Rudiments: Various drumming techniques and patterns used to create interesting and intricate drum fills, such as paradiddles, flams, and double strokes.

Drummers often personalize their fills, developing their own unique style and incorporating signature techniques. Some famous drummers renowned for their inventive and memorable drum fills include John Bonham (Led Zeppelin), Neil Peart (Rush), and Dave Grohl (Nirvana, Foo Fighters).

Drum fills can be notated using standard drum notation or drum tablature, allowing drummers to learn and recreate them accurately. Additionally, drum fills can be improvised spontaneously during live performances or carefully planned and rehearsed for specific songs.