X8 Drums Blog

How much do you know about the origin of your Djembe? Beyond the actual drum in your hands, the history of the Djembe is rich and full of tradition. Its earliest recorded appearance is in 12th century Mali, and is thought to have been originally crafted by the “numu” or blacksmiths of that time. There is also a legend of its creation being attributed to a woman who broke the bottom of her mortar while pounding grain and attached a goat skin to repair the break. Djembes still …

It's important to understand the fundamentals of playing the djembe when you're first beginning. In fact even if you've been playing for years, it never hurts to go back to reviewing the basics. Too many times players have jumped into playing their instrument without properly understanding correct body positioning and playing technique. And when it comes to playing hand drums this can surely lead to sore hands and painful joints. Playing Positions I would venture to say that th …

When we age, an onslaught of health issues may become a daily part of living. From general aches and pains to battles with illness, growing old can be a graceless experience. For those facing Alzheimer's, or those with loved ones battling Alzheimer's, the feeling of helplessness can be overwhelming. The gradual changes in personality, mood and overall wellness are devastating for the patient. Caregivers and loved ones are also affected, and finding a way to embrace …

One of the most natural responses to feeling sad, or being caught up in a “case of the blues” is to turn on some music and let the beauty (or cathartic screaming) of a favorite song wash away those feelings. For those who suffer from depression, it’s never as simple as being a little sad or bluesy. Depression can affect all aspects of life, and those facing the disorder, treatments can vary in effectiveness. Music, however, is a favored way to help ease the issues …

With a career that spans over 30 years, countless awards and record sales, Annie Lennox has been an integral part of the musical landscape all over the world. Her vocal style and profound lyrics are only part of the total package, and Lennox has used her place in the music industry as a philanthropist, helping to bring music to those who may benefit from it on more than an entertainment level. Her belief in the power of music and the therapeutic value of instruments from flutes an …

In the midst of a drum circle or other performance, the sounds of the drums being used may need a little something extra. While the drummers drum on bongos, djembes or doumbek drums, it's possible to add extra accents to the beats with time-honored percussion instruments that may not get as much attention from drum circle participants. These instruments include claves, blocks, bells, shakers and many other hand-held percussion devices that add new tones and sounds. Wit …

When it comes to drum circles, banging the bongos or shaking a shekere provides hours of entertainment and fun for listeners and participants. The freedom in drum circles encourages complex rhythms, improvisation and the coordination of percussion instruments to create an original sound that can take over the imagination and transport the drummers into more receptive and creative states of mind. Many times, these rhythms move beyond the instruments, taking hold of the part …

The Rumba is a combination of cultural influences from both Cuban and African cultures. It is a sensual rhythm that focuses on the intimate relationship between a man and a woman, and can typically be broken down into three unique rhythmic types: yambu, guaguanco, and columbia. Yambu rumba is the slower style of the rhythm, imitating a gentle courtship between lovers. This rhythm was originally played on cajon drums and claves, giving it a simple sound that highlights th …

The didgeridoo has captivated people from around the world. A uniquely-designed instrument, the didgeridoo not only has a captivating look, but a sound unlike any other instrument. Plus, mastering the breathing technique needed to play the didgeridoo makes this indigenous Australian instrument all the more fascinating and mysterious. The earliest didgeridoo discovery dates back over 1500 years in Northern Australia, with ancient illustrations depicting its use over …

The astounding, positive effects of music on the brain are still being discovered and applied to various studies that involve different physical, emotional and neurological disorders. Music therapy has been part of these different treatment plans for years, with great results in rehabilitating and assisting with the development of skills that were lost due to accidents or disorders such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's Disease. Listening to music can help alleviate pa …