Seven Days – Sting
This inventive groove was played by Vinnie Colaiuta throughout the verses of Sting's 1993 song, Seven Days. The core rhythm is based on eighth notes grouped in 3s and 2s - marked with a bass drum hit on beat 1 and cross stick (rim knock) on beat 4. The hi-hat is accented on the odd numbered beats: 1, 3 and 5 in the first measure and the even numbered beats: 2 and 4 in the second. This creates an alternative 'slow 5' pulse spanning 2 measures, evening out the odd meter and making it more relatable to the listener.
Author
Steve Ley is a professional drummer, teacher, writer and Sheet Music Team Director for Online Drummer. He studied at the Australian National University, graduating with a Diploma of Music specializing in jazz performance.
