Ron Wilson on “Wipeout” by The Surfaris – 1963 The original recording has a quiet bass drum, though on later recordings the four-on-the-floor pattern is more obvious. The original version of this class song features a typical surf or twist beat characterized by the snare playing 2& and 4. Skip Moore on “Walk Don’t Run” by The Ventures – 1960 Earl Palmer played the eighth-note rhythm of Little Richard’s piano part on his snare with his right hand and played backbeats with his left. This track was important because it marks the transition from shuffle-based grooves to straight rock patterns.
The first time I heard the intro to this song I thought it was a different version of Led Zeppelin’s “Rock And Roll.” I later learned John Bonham “borrowed” Connor’s pattern almost note for note for Zeppelin’s better-known song.Įarl Palmer on “Lucille” by Little Richard – 1957 Charles Connor on “You Keep A-Knockin’” by Little Richard – 1956
