I'll give it a shot, though there are probably as many definitions of
this as there are drummers.

If you're playing a rock song in 4/4, the downbeat would be the "pulse",
in this case the kick pattern on 1 and 3.

Another definition of downbeat is the "1" of a measure, the first beat.
"Come in on the downbeat" means come in on "1" of the next measure.

The backbeat is the snare hits on 2 and 4. The sub-pulse, if you will.

The up beat - I think - is the & of the measure 1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &. This
is the source of syncopation, which is emphasizing the & instead of the
quarter note.

Upbeat can also mean fast, quick, or something that feels more energetic
in a light, lively way.

The side beat? Don't know. Maybe the "e" and "ah" of a measure? 1 - e
- & - ah - 2 - e - & - ah, etc. The sixteenth notes?

Good questions. Anyone else have any answers?

Tomas
rudiments owner



edo wulia wrote:
>
>
> Hi list,
>
> How do you explain drumming terms: 'down beat' , 'up beat' and 'back
> beat' ?
> Thanks and looking forward to get some responses.
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>
>



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