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Learn to play Perfect Strangers on drums | by Deep Purple

Interactive Drum Sheet Music and Play-Along Tools

Technical details

Song name

Perfect Strangers

Difficulty

BPM

Time Signature

,

Decade

Genre

, ,

Drummer name

Ian Paice

Version

Drum it
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About the drummer

Ian Paice is the legendary drummer for Deep Purple and the only constant member of the band's history. Known for his incredible speed and single-stroke rolls, he is a pioneer of hard rock and heavy metal drumming. Every student learning drums for rock must study his technical mastery.

Drummer style

His style is a mix of high-speed technicality and a swinging jazz-influenced rock groove. When playing drums to "Smoke on the Water," focus on the steady, driving snare and the iconic fills that punctuate the riff. His work is a cornerstone of classic rock drum lessons and drum covers.

FAQ

Is Perfect Strangers suitable for beginners?
Perfect Strangers is better suited for intermediate to advanced drummers. However, it can be a great long-term goal as your skills improve.
Can I learn Perfect Strangers if I’m not very confident reading drum notation?
It’s possible to learn Perfect Strangers 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 Perfect Strangers?
While some fills may require toms or cymbals, the core of Perfect Strangers can be practiced on a smaller kit.
How will learning Perfect Strangers improve my drumming skills?
Learning Perfect Strangers with an interactive player allows you to break the song into sections, slow it down, and truly understand every part — helping you improve faster and more efficiently.
What skills do I need before learning Perfect Strangers?
Even if you’re still developing these skills, you can learn Perfect Strangers step by step by slowing it down and practicing in sections.

Technical details

Song name

Perfect Strangers

Difficulty

Advanced

BPM

90-99

Time Signature

4/4, 5/4

Decade

1980's

Genre

Hard Rock, Metal, Rock

Drummer name

Ian Paice

Version

Original

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