Once again, the drum education experts at Drumeo have brought a major name from the music world into their studio spotlight.
Returning to the Drumeo studio seat is none other than Chad Smith, famed drummer for the Red Hot Chili Peppers. For this new lesson, Smith takes on the deceptively straightforward yet iconic boom-bap rhythm of the Wu-Tang Clan’s Wu-Tang Ain’t Nuthing Ta F’ Wit.
At first glance, it may seem like an unexpected choice for Smith. However, fans might recall his connection to the track through a 2000 rap-rock cover featuring members of the Wu-Tang Clan and Rage Against the Machine guitarist Tom Morello. This version was released as part of the Loud Rocks compilation album.
Judging by his performance in the video, it’s clear the track still holds a special place in Smith’s heart.
Keen-eyed viewers may also notice Smith’s familiar outfit: the same Judas Priest T-shirt and Los Angeles Lakers 59/50 hat (complete with sticker on the brim) he wore in a previous viral Drumeo session. That earlier video—where he played The Kill (Bury Me) by 30 Seconds To Mars without having heard it before—has amassed over 23 million views. At the time, Smith famously commented, “It’s some kind of emo thing… I don’t know what the f__k it is. I feel violated…”—before launching into a dynamic interpretation of the track.
This has led to speculation: was his Wu-Tang drum session filmed during the same visit and held back until now? Or does he simply have a strong attachment to that shirt and hat combo?
Either way, Smith’s take on the Wu-Tang track is anything but ordinary. His performance is explosive, filled with thunderous crashes, complex hi-hat and cymbal work, and plenty of stylish stick tricks. The video wraps up with a smooth, low-key fake fade-out, showcasing Smith’s trademark flair.
When it comes to blending rock and rap drumming, Chad Smith proves once again—he’s in a league of his own.
Related Topics
- Marcus King Wields Jeff Beck’s Iconic “YardBurst” Les Paul at Red Rocks, Continuing the Legacy of a Rock ’n’ Roll Relic
- Pete Townshend Reflects on The Who’s Guitar Roles as Farewell Tour Approaches
- Erica Synths Unveils HexDrum: A Collaborative Analog Drum Machine Honoring Hexinverter’s Legacy
