"This Is How We Do It" was released in 1995 as the debut single from Montell Jordan's album of the same name, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of the defining R&B anthems of the mid-1990s. The song's smooth, laid-back groove helped establish Montell Jordan as a household name and cemented its place as a staple of 90s R&B culture.
The drum performance on this track is built around a relaxed, mid-tempo hip-hop influenced R&B groove that sits comfortably at 103 BPM, prioritizing feel and consistency over complexity. The straightforward pocket drumming supports the song's smooth vocal delivery without drawing attention away from the melody, making it an ideal study in restraint and groove.
Unique Drumming Characteristics
- Laid-back, hip-hop influenced R&B kick and snare pattern in 4/4 time
- Consistent hi-hat pattern providing a steady rhythmic foundation throughout
- Snare emphasis on beats 2 and 4 driving the backbeat groove
- Minimal fills that preserve the smooth, uninterrupted feel of the track
Skills You'll Develop
- Maintaining a steady, relaxed groove at a moderate 103 BPM tempo
- Playing consistent backbeats with clean snare placement on beats 2 and 4
- Developing hi-hat control and evenness across a full song
- Practicing dynamic restraint to support a vocal-driven R&B arrangement
Drumscore
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