When it comes to playing funk music on the drums, having the right drumsticks can make a big difference in getting the sound and feel just right. Funk drumming requires a balance of precision, power, and groove. The ideal funk drumsticks will help the drummer accentuate the syncopated 16th note funk beats and deliver a fat, punchy sound on the snare drum. There are a few factors to consider when selecting drumsticks for funk.
Stick Design
The design and dimensions of the drumstick impact the sound, rebound, and overall feel. Here are some stick features to look for when choosing drumsticks for funk:
- Diameter – A medium to large diameter (.565″ – .595″) provides power yet enough control for ghost notes and syncopation.
- Taper – A moderate taper focuses impact and helps with articulation of 16th notes.
- Tip – A rounded, acorn-style tip gives a punchy attack.
- Neck – A thin neck helps with control.
- Length – Standard length (16″ – 16.5″) or longer (17″) allows versatility and reach around a large drum kit.
Sticks that have a barrel tip and an acorn-shaped taper combine features that many funk drummers prefer. The acorn tip provides articulation while the barrel neck offers strength for power playing.
Wood Type
The wood used to make drumsticks also affects the sound and feel. Here are guidelines for selecting drumstick wood for funk:
- Maple – Provides excellent response while still giving a beefy impact. A popular choice among funk drummers.
- Hickory – Offers durability and a bright attack. Good for cut but may lack low-end punch.
- Oak – Provides a fat, deep backbeat due to its lower pitched sound. Ideal for a vintage funk vibe.
- Carbon Fiber – A synthetic option that is rigid and strong yet capable of warm low frequencies. Good power-to-weight ratio.
The most versatile options are maple or oak sticks, which combine the warmth and punch needed for funk. Many drummers like having maple for the snare and oak for the kick drum.
Tip Type
The coating on the tip impacts the sound and durability. Consider these factors for funk drumming tips:
- Wood Tips – Provide a natural, warm sound. Wear down faster under hard playing. Better for recording.
- Nylon Tips – Deliver bright attack and more durability. Good for live gigs.
- Acrylic Tips – Increase brightness even more. Very durable but may have less finesse.
For funk, nylon tips are the best balance of articulate attack, projection, and durability. Wood tips can work well but may break down quickly with aggressive playing.
Stick Weight
Heavier sticks require more effort to wield yet can produce greater volume. Lighter sticks are easier to play quickly and softly. For funk, a medium weight typically works best:
- Light – Under 40 grams. Easier to play fast with lower volume.
- Medium – 40-50 grams. Provides versatility for articulation and power.
- Heavy – Over 50 grams. Takes effort to play but maximizes power and volume.
Medium weight sticks around 45 grams are heavy enough to produce strong backbeats yet light enough for intricate hi-hat work. This allows excellent dynamic control for ghost notes and accents.
Stick Coatings
Coated drumsticks can enhance grip and improve durability. Here are some coating options:
- Lacquer – Provides a smooth natural feel and slightly warmer sound. Minimal impact on grip.
- Varnish – Increases durability significantly. Slightly tackier feel.
- Acrylic – Very durable and adds brightness to the attack. Can become slippery.
- Rubber – Boosts grip and absorbs vibration. Good for endurance and control.
For funk drumming, a stick with a rubber or acrylic coating can be helpful. The extra grip aids finer control for ghost notes and fast hi-hat work. The coatings also provide extended durability for long gigs.
Stick Balance
The center of balance affects how the stick feels in your hand and during strokes. Consider these factors:
- Front-balanced – Heavier in front, faster rebound off cymbals
- Neutral-balanced – Weight evenly distributed, versatile
- Back-balanced – Heavier in back, stronger impacts
For funk, a stick with neutral or slightly front-balanced weighting gives the best control and combo of finesse and power. Heavier back-end sticks are better for heavier music styles.
Brand Recommendations
When narrowing down your funk stick choices, these major brands provide quality options:
- Vic Firth
- Zildjian
- Promark
- Vater
- Regal Tip
Within those brands, here are some top-rated stick models well-suited for funk:
Vic Firth AJ5 American Jazz 5A
- Diameter: .565″
- Wood: Maple
- Tip: Wood, small acorn
- Length: 16.5″
- Weight: 42 grams
With their small acorn tip and tapered maple construction, the AJ5 sticks offer excellent articulation and rebound. The lighter weight provides versatility and control.
Vater Sugar Maple MH
- Diameter: .600”
- Wood: Maple
- Tip: Wood, acorn
- Length: 16.5”
- Weight: 47 grams
The medium weight and front-end acorn tip of these maple sticks make them very agile. The wood tip produces great sound for recording while resisting chipping.
Promark ActiveGrip Rebound 5A
- Diameter: .560”
- Wood: Maple
- Tip: Nylon, oval
- Length: 16.25”
- Weight: 44 grams
Featuring a contoured rubber grip and oval nylon tip, these sticks enhance holding control and articulation. The medium-small diameter optimizes rebound.
Zildjian Dip Drumsticks
- Diameter: .595”
- Wood: Maple
- Tip: Nylon, acorn
- Length: 16.5”
- Weight: 46 grams
With bright-sounding maple and an acorn nylon tip, these sticks produce clear, commanding tones. The rubber coating boosts grip security and durability.
Regal Tip Roots NR5
- Diameter: .550”
- Wood: Oak
- Tip: Nylon, round
- Length: 16”
- Weight: 44 grams
The oak produces fat, punchy tones while the small round tip articulate cleanly. Front-balanced for finesse and speed.
Conclusion
When selecting drumsticks for playing funk music, medium diameter maple or oak sticks around 16.5” length with an acorn tip offer the best blend of power, control, and dynamic range. A weight between 42-47 grams gives versatility for ghost notes and accents. Features like rubber or acrylic coatings enhance grip and durability over long gigs. Leading brands to look for include Vic Firth, Vater, Promark, Zildjian, and Regal Tip. With the right stick design and characteristics, drummers can get the ideal funky backbeat.