30 Best Drum Songs to Learn: Master Your Skills with These Tracks

Updated at: 25/12/2024

Learning to play the drums is a rewarding journey, and choosing the right songs can make all the difference. This list isn't just about technical proficiency; it's about exploring the rhythmic heart of some of the most iconic rock and pop anthems ever created. We're diving into the diverse soundscapes that shaped generations, from the soaring power ballads that demand precision and control, to the frenetic energy of grunge classics and the catchy pop hooks that require both feel and technical skill. This selection celebrates the enduring legacy of musicians who pushed boundaries and redefined genres, offering a path for aspiring drummers to master a range of styles and techniques.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player looking to challenge yourself, this collection provides a fantastic learning resource. The songs span decades and styles, showcasing the versatility and impact of great drumming. From the intricate fills and powerful grooves of one legendary hard rock band's iconic works to the infectious energy of a punk-inspired anthem, and even the complex time signatures of a groundbreaking operatic rock masterpiece, each track offers a unique challenge and reward. This curated list is designed to inspire and entertain, providing a gateway to mastering the art of drumming while experiencing the timeless appeal of some of music's greatest hits. Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and entertained!

30 Best Drum Songs to Learn: Master Your Skills with These Tracks
SongArtistAlbumListens
1. November Rain Guns N' Roses Use Your Illusion I 2B+
2. Smells Like Teen Spirit Nirvana Nevermind (Remastered) 2B+
3. Bohemian Rhapsody Queen A Night At The Opera (Deluxe Remastered Version) 2B+
4. Sweet Child O' Mine Guns N' Roses Appetite For Destruction 2B+
5. Girls Just Want to Have Fun Cyndi Lauper She's So Unusual 1B+
6. Livin' On A Prayer Bon Jovi Slippery When Wet 1B+
7. Yellow Coldplay Parachutes 1B+

1. November Rain (Guns N' Roses - 1991)

Guns N' Roses' "November Rain" is a classic power ballad, renowned for its epic length and emotional depth. For drummers, it presents an intermediate to advanced challenge. The song showcases a wide range of techniques, including complex fills, dynamic variations, and extended drum solos, requiring strong timing and stamina. Mastering the song’s intricate rhythms and powerful crescendos will significantly improve a drummer's technical skills and overall performance capabilities. While no single perfect resource exists, numerous drum cover videos and transcriptions are available online, offering various learning paths to tackle this iconic piece. This makes it an excellent choice for intermediate to advanced drummers looking to enhance their skills and build endurance.

November Rain released in 1992, a ballad from Guns N' Roses, left a mark as one of the best songs from the '90s. If you're looking to venture into more '90s greatness, be sure to check out 18 best songs Faith No More for a deep dive into the iconic band Faith No More and their unforgettable hits.
November Rain - Guns N' Roses

2. Smells Like Teen Spirit (Nirvana)

Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit" released in 1991, transcended its grunge origins to become a global phenomenon. The song's raw energy and anthem-like quality resonated deeply with a generation, catapulting Nevermind to the top of charts worldwide and solidifying grunge's mainstream breakthrough. Written by Cobain, Novoselic, and Grohl, its unexpected success, fueled by iconic music videos and countless plays, cemented its place in rock history, earning accolades including MTV Video Music Awards and a spot on Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs list. The song's enduring legacy is evident in its continued popularity, proving its timeless appeal across generations.

Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit" has influenced countless indie and alternative bands, including The Jam. For a deeper dive into the genre, check out [Top 30 Essential Tracks from The Jam: Their Best Hits], featuring 30 essential tracks showcasing The Jam's significant contribution to the alternative music scene.
Smells Like Teen Spirit - Nirvana

3. Bohemian Rhapsody - A Night At The Opera (Deluxe Remastered Version)

Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody" a six-minute opus released in 1975, transcends typical song structures, seamlessly blending ballad, opera, and hard rock elements in a groundbreaking composition. Unlike most popular music of its time, its lack of a traditional chorus and complex arrangement initially raised concerns, yet it defied expectations. Its enduring popularity is evident in its continued high streaming numbers and consistent placement on "greatest songs" lists, even decades after its release, proving its impact on the musical landscape and solidifying its status as one of the most recognizable and celebrated songs in history. The song's innovative production and structure, along with its exceptional range of musical styles, remain a testament to Queen's musical genius.

Bohemian Rhapsody - Queen

4. Sweet Child O' Mine (Guns N' Roses - 1987)

Guns N' Roses' "Sweet Child o' Mine" transcends generations, resonating deeply with listeners across diverse backgrounds. Originally released in 1987 on their debut album Appetite for Destruction, the song's iconic Slash guitar riff and heartfelt lyrics, inspired by Axl Rose's relationship, quickly propelled it to global success. Topping the Billboard Hot 100 and achieving over a billion views, "Sweet Child o' Mine" continues to evoke powerful emotions, becoming a soundtrack to countless life experiences, from joyful celebrations to moments of profound loss, as evidenced by the heartfelt comments accompanying its monumental online viewership milestone. Its enduring popularity solidifies its place as a cornerstone of rock music and a testament to its timeless appeal.

This classic rock anthem is a great choice for learning the basics of drumming, and its nostalgic vibe will take you back to simpler times. If you're looking for more songs to add to your drum playlist, be sure to check out 37 best bar rock music playlist songs , which features a mix of the best bar rock music that will put a little extra bounce in your step.
Sweet Child O' Mine - Guns N' Roses

5. Girls Just Want to Have Fun (1983)

Does the infectious energy of Cyndi Lauper's "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" instantly transport you back to the vibrant 80s? This iconic track, a reimagining of Robert Hazard's original, offers a surprisingly accessible drum part perfect for beginner to intermediate players. The song features a straightforward 4/4 beat, ideal for practicing timing and developing a solid groove. Simple fills punctuate the verses, providing opportunities to learn basic drum fills and transitions. Its repetitive nature helps build stamina and confidence while the upbeat tempo keeps things exciting. Numerous online resources, including YouTube tutorials and drum transcriptions, readily guide aspiring drummers through mastering this 80s anthem. "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" is a fun and rewarding learning experience for developing drummers looking to add a classic to their repertoire.

You'll feel like dancing the night away to Cyndi Lauper's iconic hit "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" a timeless anthem that perfectly captures the carefree spirit of the 1980s. If you're looking for more great 80s tunes to add to your playlist, be sure to check out our List of 30 80's bar music playlist songs for a round-up of the best 30 bar music playlist songs from that unforgettable decade.
Girls Just Want to Have Fun - Cyndi Lauper
  • Livin' On A Prayer
    6

    Livin' On A Prayer

    Bon Jovi

    1986

    Slippery When Wet

  • Yellow
    7

    Yellow

    Coldplay

    2000

    Parachutes

  • Back In Black
    8

    Back In Black

    AC/DC

    1980

    Back In Black

  • Levitating
    9

    Levitating

    Dua Lipa

    2020

    Future Nostalgia

  • Seven Nation Army
    10

    Seven Nation Army

    The White Stripes

    2003

    Elephant

  • Another One Bites The Dust
    11

    Another One Bites The Dust

    Queen

    1980

    The Game (Deluxe Remastered Version)

  • We Will Rock You
    12

    We Will Rock You

    Queen

    1977

    News Of The World (2011 Remaster)

  • Come As You Are
    13

    Come As You Are

    Nirvana

    1991

    Nevermind (Remastered)

  • Hotel California
    14

    Hotel California

    Eagles

    1976

    Hotel California (2013 Remaster)

  • Hey Jude
    15

    Hey Jude

    The Beatles

    1968

    With The Beatles (Remastered)

  • Don't Stop Believin'
    16

    Don't Stop Believin'

    Journey

    1981

    Escape (2022 Remaster)

  • Under the Bridge
    17

    Under the Bridge

    Red Hot Chili Peppers

    1991

    Blood Sugar Sex Magik (Deluxe Edition)

  • T.N.T
    18

    T.N.T

    AC/DC

    1975

    High Voltage

  • Gimme All Your Lovin'
    19

    Gimme All Your Lovin'

    ZZ Top

    1983

    Eliminator

  • Should I Stay or Should I Go
    20

    Should I Stay or Should I Go

    The Clash

    1982

    Combat Rock (Remastered)

  • Come Together
    21

    Come Together

    The Beatles

    1969

    Abbey Road (Remastered)

  • Stairway to Heaven
    22

    Stairway to Heaven

    Led Zeppelin

    1971

    Led Zeppelin IV (Deluxe Edition)

  • Free Fallin'
    23

    Free Fallin'

    Tom Petty

    1989

    Full Moon Fever

  • In My Life
    24

    In My Life

    The Beatles

    1965

    Rubber Soul (Remastered)

  • Rebel Rebel
    25

    Rebel Rebel

    David Bowie

    1974

    Diamond Dogs (2016 Remaster)

  • Hold On
    26

    Hold On

    Alabama Shakes

    2012

    Boys & Girls

  • Black Dog
    27

    Black Dog

    Led Zeppelin

    1971

    Led Zeppelin IV (Deluxe Edition)

  • Beast Of Burden
    28

    Beast Of Burden

    The Rolling Stones

    1978

    Some Girls

  • I Love Rock 'n' Roll
    29

    I Love Rock 'n' Roll

    Joan Jett , the Blackhearts

    1981

  • Rocky Mountain Way
    30

    Rocky Mountain Way

    Joe Walsh

    1973