Below is a breakdown of Michael Jackson’s Billie Jean, it shows the section name and number of bars.
Section No. of Bars
Intro 14
1st Verse 12
2nd Verse 8
Bridge 8
Chorus 12
3rd Verse 12
4th Verse 8
Bridge 8
Chorus 8
Chorus 12
Middle 8 8
Chorus To Fade…(30)
This weeks “Track of the week” is Billie Jean, here I will break it down to identify the sections, the amount of bars that make up the sections, giving you the chance to have a listen knowing where changes should happen. Then come the suggested rhythm/rhythms for the track, and finally the fills. Obviously it’s down to you to get hold of the track, and up to you if you want to follow the guide I’ve given, but it can make a great practice tool for drummers of all levels.
1) Billie Jean by Michael Jackson
Despite what you might think of Michael Jackson personally, it’s hard to deny that he is a musical genius, so, for the very first “track of the week” I have chosen Billie Jean.
This track is so effective because of its layered simplicity. It plays host to possibly the most straight forward groove one can play using the hi hat, snare and bass, however it’s a flawless example of how good that groove can sound. Wherever you are, whatever you’re doing, as soon as that first two bars of groove kick in, followed by the bass guitar, you can’t help but bop your head to the sound coming out of the speakers! I know that in places the groove does get a TAD more complex, but for the most part the track is the epitome of the age old saying “less is more”. So if you have never heard the track, what are you waiting for?!? Go get it, turn it up, bop your head and enjoy!
