In a new Drumeo episode of hearing songs for the first time, The Police drummer Stewart Copeland tries his best to play Limp Bizkit’s ‘Rollin’ (Air Raid Vehicle).’
Copeland wasn’t familiar with the challenge but watched a video of Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Chad Smith playing ‘The Kill’ by 30 Seconds to Mars. For his challenge, Copeland was given ‘Rollin’.’ On his first attempt, he quickly got into the rhythm and played well. However, he made a joke about his setup, saying, “I would be playing the octobans more but I can’t remember where they are and my aim isn’t great.”
When asked about his process for writing drum parts, Copeland shared a story about his time with The Police and his relationship with Sting. “I actually did try very hard to make my band happy. And when Stingo would have an idea for something I absolutely would listen, ’cause he’s actually pretty good with this stuff. And I would listen, but then I’d forget, and instinct takes over, and I did my best. I only wished to please, and I wasn’t being obstinate or anything when I didn’t do what he asked, it was just because I forgot.”
“Every morning I’m sure Sting would look in the mirror with Trudie [Styler, Sting’s wife] standing next to him saying ‘Just let Stewart be Stewart.’ And he would try his best, but then pretty soon I’d start playing all kinds of bullshit over his great song.” He added, “And every morning I would look in the mirror, with Fiona [Dent, Copeland’s wife] standing by my side, saying ‘Just give him what he wants. Today, I’m gonna make Sting happy’ …didn’t last.”
After his first take, Copeland says, “Fun song! Fun song to play. I like those guys in concept. I don’t… I’m not that familiar with their music.”
Before hearing the original song with the drums, Copeland praises the Limp Bizkit drummer John Otto, “Go John!”
In another Drumeo video with Copeland, the drummer talks about some of the band’s biggest hits, how he developed his unique drumming style, how he incorporated electronics into his playing, and how he created some of the most iconic drum parts in history, like ‘Walking On The Moon’ and ‘Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic.’
