Ratamacue drum lick – Mini Drum Lesson | NIKOS VAFEIDIS

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If you're a drummer passionate about rudimental phrasing, groove, and legendary influences, you're in the right place. In this mini drum lesson, we dive deep into one of my all-time favorite rudiments — the ratamacue — with a powerful twist: adding the kick drum on beat 1. This phrasing is heavily inspired by the one and only Steve Gadd, whose creative drumming vocabulary has shaped the playing of countless musicians around the world.

Whether you're looking to expand your rudiment applications, explore hybrid licks, or just want to inject more musicality into your fills and solos, this concept can open up fresh pathways. The ratamacue with kick on 1 is not just a technical workout — it’s a groove-ready, stage-worthy lick that works both in chops-based solos and tasteful fills.

???? What is the Ratamacue Rudiment?
The ratamacue is a classic rudiment that’s part of the traditional 26 American rudiments and expanded in the PAS 40 rudiments list. It typically consists of a drag (or grace notes) followed by a triplet figure ending with a tap.

What makes the ratamacue so musical is its triplet feel, grace note texture, and the way it rolls into grooves naturally. When you place it creatively in a drum fill or solo, it adds that signature phrasing that you hear in many classic Gadd solos.

⚡ Steve Gadd’s Signature Use of Rudiments
Steve Gadd is known for seamlessly incorporating rudiments into musical phrases. What separates him from many other players is his ability to blend technique with feel, groove, and tone. Gadd often takes rudiments like the ratamacue, paradiddle, or flam tap, and applies them in rhythmic groupings that feel like music, not just drills.

This lesson is inspired by that philosophy: taking a technical idea and turning it into something musical.

???? Adding the Kick on Beat 1
In this lesson, we anchor the ratamacue by placing the kick drum on beat 1 of each measure. This subtle change creates:

A rhythmic anchor that locks the rudiment into the groove

A contrast between the hands and feet

An implied pulse that adds weight and definition

This phrasing can be looped in practice or placed mid-fill to create tension and release. It’s especially effective in odd groupings or linear solos.

???? Musical Applications
Once you master the flow, try applying this lick in:

Drum solos

Fusion/funk grooves

Gospel-chops-style linear fills

Breakdowns in live shows

Studio recordings for added texture

You can also:

Shift the accent structure

Vary the orchestration across toms and cymbals

Play it in different subdivisions (e.g. 16th triplets)

This gives you endless options for improvisation and expression.

???? Pro Tips for Practicing This Rudiment
Start slow – isolate the hands first, then add the kick on beat 1

Use a metronome – especially with a triplet grid

Count out loud – keep awareness of phrasing and pulse

Practice looped – repeat it in cycles of 4 to internalize the flow

Add accents – experiment with dynamics for extra flavor

Record yourself – it helps catch timing inconsistencies

Apply in a groove – don’t just practice it as an exercise

???? Why This Rudiment Stands Out
Many drummers overlook the ratamacue because it's not as flashy as a paradiddle-diddle or flam drag. But in the hands of players like Gadd, it becomes a groove weapon. Adding the kick drum adds a modern touch, while still staying rooted in rudimental tradition.

???? Related Lessons to Watch After This One:
Gadd-Style Paradiddle Fill (with foot variations)

How to Use Flam Taps in Gospel Chops

Triplet Grid Fills with Kick Patterns

Linear Drumming Concepts for Intermediate Drummers

???? Filming Setup & Gear
This video was recorded using a Panasonic S5 with a Sigma 24-70mm lens, and a GoPro 13 black mounted directly above the drum kit for a full overhead view. Sound was captured in high definition with multiple microphones for a clean and punchy mix, so you can clearly hear the articulation and foot placement.

???? Subscribe for More Mini Lessons
If you enjoyed this video, make sure to subscribe for more advanced rudiment ideas, drum licks, and musical phrasing lessons inspired by legends like Steve Gadd, Vinnie Colaiuta, and Dennis Chambers.
We’ll explore everything from ghost notes to metric modulation, always with a focus on musicality.

Sponsors: R-Sticks, Cympad International, Skygel Damper Pads

Sound recorded at Mix Studio (Thessaloniki)
Video by @onetakeproductions1661
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​#linear​​​ #rudiments #chops