The Most Important Beat I Ever Learned - David Garibaldi (Drumeo)

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As David and I were discussing his lesson material for Drumeo, he began talking about a drum beat that heavily influenced his own playing and was popular amongst drummers in the early 70’s: the “King Kong” (created and coined by Pete DePoe). Today, David’s here to show and teach you this groove that inspired his overall sound that we’ve all come to love.

Our thoughts and prayers are with David as he’s currently recovering from an accident in Oakland, California, where he and fellow musician Marc Van Wageningen were struck by an Amtrak train before their show with Tower of Power.

[vargaso]

This is an actual lesson. He breaks down the beat for each limb, explains how the parts overlap, demonstrates variations around the kit. DG is the man.

[johnz]

David created a genre of funk drumming that gave Tower incredible feel.

[johnz]

Dave is a rock solid, in-the-pocket drummer. Very under appreciated by the public, but greatly respected by drummers.

[MrMooie]

David Garibaldi's variations on this groove were the most important grooves I ever learned. I loved the discussion about layered and linear drumming since I think it's good to apply aspects of both as well.

[marciefree]

Dear David,
I just wanted to let you know that I’ve been listening to you since 1972. Love ya brother. Thanks for the thrills and chills. ❤️🥰🥰

[Henry-uvxu]

He plays with such a light touch it draws a beautiful and natural sound out of the drums. Absolutely controlled.

[JAMESlock]

I really appreciate accomplished drummers willing to give lessons like this. I have been playing for 30 years and still learning.

[markzonder]

Love the way the interview guy is watching as he plays and has no clue of what is happening. The blank look on his face is priceless.

[thinktank]

The legend David G. So very nice to see him active within the community. Love the old school guys, and gals?

[Jason-vnxj]

The first clinic I ever attended was DG in 1994. I’ve seen ToP live four times with him including their recent 50th anniversary tour. He is just incredible. A genuine legend. Even a train couldn’t stop him. 🙏 🥁

[TimStanford-fwie]

Amazing ! He so natural . I learned that same pattern some years back. Nice .

[titusong]

Love the way he taught this lesson. He break down it slowly one by one and explain it very clearly. Hope he will get fully recover soon

[CurlyQ]

I just listened to Redbone and then Tower of Power before listening to this. I'm blown away.

[mundelon]

This man is an inspiration to so many including myself. If I had a tenth of his talent I would very happy. So it saddens me to see people making unnecessary comments about his playing to a click or, laughingly, his timekeeping.
These people would probably not get as far as the door if Tower of Power ever held auditions.
Get over yourself and just enjoy this man’s talent.

[WhirlwindDrums]

David Garibaldi is very inspiring to my playing style.
He know's how to play with a funky feel and maintain the perfect groove.
One of my favorite funk/soul/fusion drummers

[klayvonisme]

No way, I've been playing the King Kong beat for years but just didn't know what to call. It's reassuring to know that I have been at least one thing that sounds pretty darn cool. Thanks for the lesson, this made my day!

[johnedwardkeoniambrose]

David G, you took me to the jungle at the start, then you brought me deeper into the Jungle at 7:45 with that cowbell ..I loved it thanks man! \m/

[frankburdodrums]

Not for nothing but these videos have me playing the drums like 4 or 5 times a day. My neighbors must love it!!!! There's just no way you can't get better playing all the time you just do. Thanks for the great ideas. Fantastic video.

[richarddragven]

Great, essential stuff. A true mind clearly articulating what people love to hear but don't readily understand. Thank you, Drumeo, this is outstanding, as usual.

[earlbrackett]

that side snare, punchy kick & ride sound amazing together...damn, he mentioned The Meters...very cool...