Drum Sheet – AC/DC – Play Ball

“Play Ball” by AC/DC is a high-energy rock anthem that perfectly captures the band’s signature hard-hitting sound, with a driving groove that makes it a standout for drumming enthusiasts. Released in 2014 as the lead single from their album Rock or Bust, the song is built around a tight rhythm section that gives it a steady, pulsing energy. The drums play a crucial role in maintaining the song’s momentum, providing the backbone for the iconic AC/DC riffing and Brian Johnson’s unmistakable vocals.

The composition of “Play Ball” followed AC/DC’s classic songwriting formula—straightforward, no-frills rock with a focus on groove and power. The band worked on the track during the Rock or Bust recording sessions at Warehouse Studio in Vancouver, with producer Brendan O’Brien helping to refine the raw ideas into a polished final version. Drummer Phil Rudd laid down a solid, unrelenting beat, staying true to AC/DC’s philosophy of keeping things simple yet effective. His playing is all about feel—tight hi-hat work, punchy snare hits, and a deep, steady kick drum that locks in perfectly with the bass and rhythm guitar.

The drumbeat in “Play Ball” is classic AC/DC: no overplaying, just rock-solid timekeeping with a groove that makes the song drive forward. Rudd’s ability to maintain a steady, swinging pulse is what gives the track its infectious energy. His use of subtle accents on the snare and hi-hat creates a sense of movement, while the occasional cymbal crashes add power to the choruses. The fills are minimal but effective, strategically placed to emphasize transitions without disrupting the song’s relentless drive.

Once released, “Play Ball” became a staple in AC/DC’s Rock or Bust Tour setlist, played in stadiums and arenas around the world. The song’s live performances showcased the power of Rudd’s drumming, with his rock-steady groove keeping tens of thousands of fans moving in unison. The track was also prominently featured in sports events, commercials, and even Major League Baseball promotions, reinforcing its connection to high-energy action.

For drummers, “Play Ball” is a masterclass in restraint and groove. Phil Rudd’s playing proves that power doesn’t come from complexity but from precision and feel. His drumming on the track is a perfect example of how a simple beat, played with conviction, can make a song feel massive and unstoppable—just like AC/DC itself.