Unlocking Drumming Individuality: Mastering the Flat Setup Technique from Travis Barker

Travis Barker

I’m a freak, everything has to be totally flat when I play. Ed Will, my jazz teacher, set up everything completely flat, and then you’d tilt your snare drum away from you, so I do that too. So my snare tilts away from me.

Travis Barker


Travis Barker, drummer of Blink-182, has mastered the flat setup technique, which involves keeping the drums level instead of angling them. This unique approach allows him to have better control and access to every drum and cymbal effortlessly, resulting in a distinct sound that is admired by aspiring drummers worldwide. Embracing his individuality, Barker has carved his path as a drummer and inspires others to embrace their own creativity.



   

Meaning of Quote – I’m a freak, everything has to be totally flat when I play. Ed Will, my jazz teacher, set up everything completely flat, and then you’d tilt your snare drum away from you, so I do that too. So my snare tilts away from me.

Embracing Individuality: The Unconventional Style of Travis Barker

Introduction

Travis Barker, renowned drummer of the band Blink-182, is famous for his incredible drumming skills and unique playing style. In his quote, Barker humorously refers to himself as a “freak” with an obsession for having everything flat while playing. Let’s dive deeper into Barker’s mindset and discover how his unconventional approach to drumming has shaped his identity as a musician.

1. Embracing Uniqueness

While many musicians strive to blend in with their peers, Travis Barker proudly embraces his individuality. His declaration of being a “freak” reveals his confidence in deviating from traditional drumming practices. Barker’s inclination towards having everything flat during his performances sets him apart from other drummers, highlighting his desire to break the mold and craft his own sound.

2. Influences and Inspiration

In Barker’s quote, he credits his jazz teacher, Ed Will, for teaching him the importance of having a flat setup. By adopting this unorthodox technique, Barker pays homage to his teacher’s influence and experiences. Moreover, Barker’s unconventional style can also be partially attributed to the punk rock scene that he was heavily involved in during his early career. This genre celebrated nonconformity, giving Barker the freedom to experiment with his drumming technique.

   

3. The Flat Setup Technique

One of the distinctive aspects of Barker’s drumming style is his insistence on everything being flat. The flat setup technique involves keeping the drums level instead of angling them like most drummers. This preference allows Barker to have better control and maneuverability across the drum kit, as he can access every drum and cymbal effortlessly. By doing so, he maximizes his potential for creating complex rhythms and harmonies.

4. Tilting the Snare Drum

In addition to the flat setup, Barker tilts his snare drum away from himself. This adjustment allows him to strike the snare with precision, generating a unique sound that defines his drumming style. By tilting it away, Barker adds a dynamic element, providing a slight tilt to the rhythm. This technique aids his extraordinary ability to maintain a perfect balance between the melodic and percussive components of the music he plays.

5. The Signature Travis Barker Sound

Barker’s unique approach to drumming has resulted in a distinct sound that is now widely recognized and imitated. His tight, fast-paced beats and precise strokes on the drum kit have become trademarks of his style. By adopting the flat setup and tilting the snare drum, Barker has fashioned a sound that is instantly recognizable and admired by countless aspiring drummers worldwide.

Conclusion

Travis Barker’s powerful declaration of being a “freak” who insists on maintaining a flat setup while playing the drums showcases his unwavering commitment to his craft and individuality. By embracing his unique style, Barker has been able to carve his path as a drummer and inspire the next generation of musicians to embrace their own creativity.

   

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Freely Shareable Quote Image I'm a freak, everything has to be totally flat when I play. Ed Will, my jazz teacher, set up everything completely flat, and then you'd tilt your snare drum away from you, so I do that too. So my snare tilts away from me.