Books
The Art of Jamaican Drumming
History and Method
Explore the heartbeat of Jamaica through its most powerful instrument—the drum. The Art of Jamaican Drumming is a deep dive into the evolution of Jamaican music from its roots in African hand drumming and folk traditions, through the birth of Mento, Ska, Rocksteady, and the many forms of Reggae, including Steppers, Rockers, and Dancehall.
Blending historical insight with practical instruction, this book guides drummers and music lovers alike through the rhythmic vocabulary that shaped a global sound.
Presented in chronological order, the book traces how each style developed from the ones before it, helping readers not only learn how to play authentically but also understand the cultural and social forces that gave rise to each rhythm. Along the way, readers will find detailed breakdowns of classic drumming styles, artist spotlights, performance tips, and reflections on how Jamaican drumming has influenced music worldwide—from jazz to hip hop to punk rock.
Now available for purchase on Amazon in digital and print format and on Lulu for premium print quality.
Educational Videos
Visit my YouTube channel The Drummers Wood Shed for drum lessons, technique tutorials, and drumming insights.
Book Me for a Recording Session
Hire me to play drums or percussion on your next recording. I can play any style of rock, progressive, punk, funk, hip-hop, jazz, reggae, ska, rocksteady, and rhythms from all over the Caribbean and South America, including bossa nova, samba, calypso, soca and jamoo. I'm also studied in many different world music styles.
I have my own studio available for remote recording. Send me your song or tune consisting of guitar or piano, vocal cues, voiced instrument cues (for solos etc.), recorded to a metronome, and I can send you raw recorded or mixed drums or percussion.
For more information about my equipment setup and a video about what to send me, see the session detail page.
Biography
Fritz Madden is a versatile drummer and percussionist with deep expertise across multiple musical genres and traditions. With a strong foundation in world music rhythms and a passion for the cultural histories behind each style, Fritz brings authenticity and creativity to every project.
His work spans recording sessions, educational content, and his published research on Jamaican drumming traditions. Fritz is committed to helping musicians understand not just how to play, but why the music matters.
Contact Me
Have a question or want to book a session? Get in touch below.