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Learn to play Panama on drums | by Van Halen

Interactive Drum Sheet Music and Play-Along Tools

Technical details

Song name

Panama

Difficulty

BPM

Time Signature

Decade

Genre

, ,

Drummer name

Alex Van Halen

Version

Drum it
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About the drummer

Alex Van Halen is the co-founding drummer of Van Halen, known for his "brown sound" snare and technical power. Influenced by Buddy Rich and John Bonham, he brought a sophisticated, manager-like discipline to the band’s high-energy rock. He is a primary study for anyone learning drums for hard rock.

Drummer style

His style is characterized by a powerful, driving double-bass and unique snare warmth that punctuates the guitar riffs. Playing drums like Alex requires a focus on speed, precision, and stadium-sized fills. His work on "Panama" is a classic choice for high-energy drum covers and professional drum lessons.

FAQ

Is Panama suitable for beginners?
It’s more suited for beginners with some experience. Using features like tempo control and looping can help you learn it at your own pace.
Can I learn Panama if I’m not very confident reading drum notation?
It’s possible to learn Panama by ear, especially if you break it into sections. Over time, you’ll also improve your ability to read drum notation.
Do I need a full drum kit to play Panama?
While the original version uses a full kit, you can simplify parts and still learn the structure and feel of Panama.
How will learning Panama improve my drumming skills?
Panama helps you develop a solid sense of groove and consistency. You’ll practice staying locked in with the beat while maintaining control over your dynamics.
What skills do I need before learning Panama?
Before learning Panama, it helps to be comfortable with basic grooves, simple fills, and maintaining steady timing.

Technical details

Song name

Panama

Difficulty

Intermediate

BPM

140-149

Time Signature

4/4

Decade

1980's

Genre

Hard Rock, Metal, Rock

Drummer name

Alex Van Halen

Version

Simplified

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