Songs with the best R&B drumming

It stands out for its distinctive and catchy drum rhythm, which is the central element of the song and makes it instantly recognizable. Its unique groove remains influential and often cited in discussions about outstanding drumming in contemporary R&B.

Al Jackson Jr.'s drumming enters with a double-time 'rim-click', driving the groove, and features a surprising snare fill and a funky kick drum pattern. It is a masterful example of how drumming can add dynamism and emotion to an R&B/Soul ballad.

Drummer Willie Hall is credited for the catchy and essential drum part of this song, with accented sixteenth notes on the hi-hat and a kick drum pattern that emphasizes the horn sections. It is a soul and R&B classic with iconic drumming that is integral to the song's recognition.

Drummer James Gadson created an incredibly funky groove with a 'rim-click' and kick drum rhythm, along with open 'hi-hat barks'. It demonstrates that not many fills are needed to make a song memorable, being a timeless R&B/Soul classic.

As a recent song by a popular R&B artist, the drumming in 'Folded' is part of the production that defines the current sound of the genre. With a focus on groove and texture, it is an example of the most current R&B productions, where the drumming contributes to a smooth and contemporary sound.

Rich Harrison's production, including the drums, gives this hit its infectious 'swagger', using a sample from The Chi-Lites' 'Are You My Woman (Tell Me So)'. It is a defining hit from the early 2000s that remains a benchmark for its energy and danceable rhythmic pattern.

This song is consistently mentioned by drummers as one of the most fun to play due to its infectious and energetic funk/R&B groove. Its impeccable production and homage to classic sounds keep it as a standard for good drumming in the genre.

Part of D'Angelo's album *Voodoo*, this song is a benchmark in neo-soul and R&B for the complexity and 'feel' of Questlove's drumming. The complete album is a milestone in R&B/neo-soul drumming, setting a standard for groove and musicality.

With Clyde Stubblefield on drums, this song is a classic example of funk and R&B, with a driving and choppy groove. It is a fundamental piece for understanding the evolution of drumming in R&B and funk, and its groove remains a challenge and an inspiration.

Recorded with Benny Benjamin, Pete 'Pistol' Allen, and Uriel Jones, the song features a simplified hi-hat and kick drum groove, with a tom on beats 2 and 4, and a tambourine roll. It is an example of Motown's mastery in R&B production, with drumming that creates a distinctive atmosphere and a hypnotic groove.

Drummer Al Jackson Jr. uses an unusual variation by playing beats 2 and 4 on a tom instead of the snare drum, giving the song a unique sound. It demonstrates how a small variation in drumming can have a big impact on the sound and longevity of an R&B song.

Mentioned in discussions about outstanding drumming in contemporary R&B for its "really cool drums." It represents modern R&B with drumming that contributes to its distinctive and often more experimental sound, showcasing the genre's evolution.

Recognized for its drumming that complements the song's introspective and raw atmosphere. It is an example of how drumming in contemporary R&B can be subtle yet impactful, effectively serving the song's narrative and mood.

H.E.R. is a contemporary R&B artist with polished productions where the rhythm section is fundamental to the groove. This song represents the current sound of R&B, where the drumming contributes to a smooth and emotive groove, characteristic of many recent hits.

As a recent R&B song, the drumming in 'Sensational' contributes to the artist's modern and danceable sound. It is an example of how drumming in current R&B maintains energy and rhythm for dance floors and popular consumption, fusing contemporary elements.

SZA is a prominent figure in contemporary R&B, and her songs, like 'Snooze', often feature drumming that is an integral part of their relaxed and atmospheric grooves. It reflects the current trend in R&B of using drums that create an immersive atmosphere and a constant rhythm.

The drumming in this R&B/hip-hop collaboration contributes to the distinctive atmospheric and melancholic sound often found in modern R&B. It is an example of how drums in current R&B merge with hip-hop elements to create complex and appealing soundscapes.

Stevie Wonder himself played the drums on this iconic song, creating a distinctive and energetic groove. It is an undisputed classic of funk and R&B, with drumming that is a study of rhythm and 'feeling', showcasing the artist's mastery of multiple instruments.

An R&B/funk classic with drumming that drives the song's danceable rhythm. Its timeless groove keeps it a favorite for R&B drummers, being an example of how percussion can be the driving force of a lasting hit.

This song features a drum groove that is "really cool, quite challenging" and focuses on "groove and feel." It is an example of classic R&B/soul with drumming that is both enjoyable and a good exercise for drummers, showing the subtle complexity of the genre.