Drum Sheet – Bradley Cooper – Black Eyes

“Black Eyes” by Bradley Cooper opens A Star Is Born (2018) with a raw, electrifying punch — and for fans of the drums, it’s an unforgettable moment. Co-written by Cooper and musician Lukas Nelson (son of Willie Nelson), the song was conceived as a gritty, blues-rock anthem to introduce Jackson Maine, Cooper’s rockstar character. Cooper, deeply invested in portraying a believable musician, immersed himself in vocal training and guitar work months before filming. But it was Lukas Nelson and his band Promise of the Real who brought the musical authenticity. Together, they shaped the sonic identity of Jackson Maine, and “Black Eyes” was one of their earliest creations.

The writing process started with Cooper wanting something that felt dirty and alive — something that sounded like it had been played a thousand times in smoke-filled dive bars. Lukas Nelson began crafting the chord structure and riffs while Cooper developed the lyrics and vocal delivery. The goal was to write from Jackson’s point of view: tormented, weary, but explosive. The track was produced by Dave Cobb and Nelson, capturing a vintage analog sound that matched the emotional weight of the character and film.

The drums on “Black Eyes” are a central force — gritty, unrelenting, and primal. Played live by Anthony LoGerfo (drummer for Promise of the Real), the kit hits you like a hammer, full of room tone and attitude. The drumming uses a blend of laid-back swing and aggressive drive, locking tightly with the guitar riff but never feeling polished. The snare crack is especially punchy, and the fills are simple but satisfyingly meaty — think John Bonham meets garage rock. The sound was captured using mostly live takes, giving the drums a raw edge that perfectly sets the mood for the film.

“Black Eyes” was performed live in front of real crowds during filming at actual music festivals, including Glastonbury and Stagecoach. To maintain realism, the band recorded short 10-minute sets between other performers. This energy is palpable in the movie’s opening scene, where Cooper sings to a cheering crowd with the pounding drums kicking things off.

For drumming fans, “Black Eyes” is a masterclass in restraint and muscle — it’s not about complexity, but feel. Every beat serves the mood, anchoring the chaos of Jackson Maine’s world with thunderous precision.