"The Breakup Song (They Don't Write 'Em)" was released by The Greg Kihn Band in 1981 on the album RocKihnRoll, becoming the band's breakthrough hit and reaching the Top 15 on the Billboard Hot 100. The track became a staple of early MTV and new wave-influenced rock radio, cementing Greg Kihn's place in the early 1980s rock landscape.
The drumming on this track is straightforward and driving, delivering a steady rock groove at 141 BPM that keeps the energy high while supporting the song's punchy, radio-friendly structure. The drum part prioritizes consistency and pocket playing over complexity, making it an excellent example of disciplined, song-serving rock drumming.
Unique Drumming Characteristics
- Steady, driving 4/4 rock groove with consistent kick and snare backbeat
- Eighth-note hi-hat pattern maintaining momentum throughout the song
- Straightforward verse-chorus transitions with minimal fill embellishment
- Snare emphasis on beats 2 and 4 reinforcing the song's energetic feel
- Simple, supportive drum fills that serve song structure without overplaying
Skills You'll Develop
- Maintaining a consistent, locked-in rock groove at an upbeat tempo
- Developing steady eighth-note hi-hat control with both hands
- Practicing disciplined backbeat placement on snare drums
- Learning to execute clean, minimal fills during song transitions
- Building endurance and tempo stability at 141 BPM
Drumscore
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