Bernard Purdie’s Iconic Shuffle: Inspiring Generations of Drummers
In the world of drumming, few grooves have left as profound an impact as Bernard Purdie’s legendary shuffle on Steely Dan’s Home At Last. Purdie’s signature feel, often called the "Purdie Shuffle," is the backbone of this track, blending intricate hi-hat patterns with a deep, syncopated pocket. This groove has not only defined songs but also set the standard for countless drummers who followed. Let’s explore the history behind this creative genius, his influence on iconic songs, and how modern drummers like Ash Soan continue his legacy in fresh, innovative ways.
The Legacy of Bernard Purdie
Bernard "Pretty" Purdie has long been celebrated for his unique approach to rhythm. Known for his laid-back, syncopated shuffle, he’s played on thousands of tracks throughout his career, contributing his sound to artists like Aretha Franklin, James Brown, and Miles Davis. Purdie’s "Purdie Shuffle" is a masterclass in groove, combining steady quarter notes on the hi-hat, syncopated ghost notes on the snare, and driving accents on the bass drum. It’s a groove that is deceptively simple yet packed with soul, capturing a deep sense of feel that’s almost impossible to replicate.
In Home At Last, Steely Dan’s fusion of jazz, rock, and funk is perfectly complemented by Purdie’s effortless shuffle. The track exemplifies the groove’s power to create a rhythmic foundation that feels both relaxed and driving. This song’s shuffle has inspired many drummers and is a textbook example of how rhythm can transform a song.
Purdie’s Influence on Iconic Songs
Purdie’s influence reaches far beyond Home At Last. His grooves have shaped other iconic songs and continue to inspire the evolution of drumming. Here are a few examples:
James Brown’s "Cold Sweat": Purdie’s style laid the groundwork for the funky beats that defined Brown’s sound. The syncopated, backbeat-heavy rhythms were a precursor to the shuffle that Purdie perfected, giving Cold Sweat its infectious ghost note related pattern to Purdie. Listen closely to the 2 and 4 snare shuffle
The Meters' "Cissy Strut": This example is my personal favorite of off beats and grooves using the shuffle periodically.
Led Zeppelin’s "Fool in the Rain": John Bonham took inspiration from Purdie’s shuffle, adding his own twist to create a legendary beat. Bonham’s halftime shuffle in Fool in the Rain is a nod to the groove’s power, combining rock and funk in a way that’s unmistakably influenced by Purdie’s original feel.
Toto’s "Rosanna": Jeff Porcaro, another drummer heavily influenced by Purdie, created the shuffle groove for Rosanna as a tribute. Porcaro’s interpretation has become a hallmark in drumming, seamlessly blending Purdie’s shuffle with his own rock influences, creating a timeless rhythm that resonates with drummers to this day.
These songs showcase the versatility and influence of Purdie’s style. His grooves have not only defined tracks but also inspired drummers to explore the space between strict rhythmic structure and freeform expression.
Ash Soan: Carrying the Shuffle Legacy Forward
In the contemporary drumming world, Ash Soan stands out as a modern master of the halftime shuffle. Known for his work with artists like Adele, Seal, and Cher, Soan brings a fresh perspective to Purdie’s shuffle, infusing it with a modern touch. His playing is smooth, precise, and filled with dynamic control, giving the classic shuffle a renewed relevance in today’s music.
Soan’s approach to the shuffle is a refined, more minimalist take. He often emphasizes space and dynamics, allowing his grooves to breathe while still carrying a driving momentum. Watching him play, it’s clear he’s taken inspiration from the greats, including Purdie, yet he has evolved the technique to fit today’s musical landscape. His grooves are not only rhythmically compelling but also offer an emotional resonance that draws listeners in.
Ash Playing “Home At Last”
Drummers like Soan are keeping the tradition alive while inspiring new generations—including myself—to embrace the shuffle. His approach reminds us that rhythm is as much about feel and emotion as it is about technique. Seeing how he continues to evolve and experiment with the shuffle pushes me to explore new ways of incorporating this iconic groove into my own playing.
The legacy of Bernard Purdie’s shuffle in Home At Last lives on through the countless drummers and musicians he has influenced. From Cold Sweat to Rosanna, his grooves have shaped the sound of modern music, proving that the right rhythm can make a song unforgettable. Today, drummers like Ash Soan continue this tradition, pushing the boundaries of the shuffle groove and inspiring others to do the same. For me, discovering the history and evolution of the shuffle has deepened my appreciation for the art of drumming, and it motivates me to keep exploring the endless possibilities within a groove.