Bundle Drum Sheet Easy – Lenny Kravitz – It Ain’t Over ’til It’s Over

“It Ain’t Over ’til It’s Over” by Lenny Kravitz is a timeless blend of vintage soul and modern sensibility, a track that stands as one of his most heartfelt and musically refined works. Released in 1991 on his second album Mama Said, the song draws heavily from the golden era of 1970s soul and funk, paying homage to artists like Curtis Mayfield, Marvin Gaye, and Earth, Wind & Fire—while still bearing Kravitz’s signature.

Lyrically, it’s a vulnerable and honest reflection on a relationship in decline, born out of Kravitz’s personal struggles during the unraveling of his marriage to actress Lisa Bonet. The lyrics carry a sense of quiet desperation and hope, wrapped in a deceptively smooth groove.

Musically, the song is rich with lush textures: silky strings, warm Rhodes keys, classic Motown-style basslines, and a brass section that lifts the choruses into the stratosphere. Kravitz performed nearly all the instruments himself, with the exception of the horn parts, which were recorded by members of Earth, Wind & Fire—further anchoring the song in its soul roots.

But for drummers and rhythm lovers, the standout feature is the drum groove: laid-back, deep-pocket, and unshakably steady. The snare lands just behind the beat, creating that “lazy” soul feel that’s hard to replicate. The kick and snare interplay is minimal but intentional, every stroke placed to support the melody. The use of ghost notes adds texture without clutter, and the hi-hats are soft and close, guiding the track rather than dominating it.

What makes this drum track special isn’t complexity—there are no solos or flourishes—it’s about feel. The groove breathes, it lets the vocals soar, and it grounds the song with a sense of intimacy. It’s the kind of playing that demands control, taste, and deep musical awareness.

On stage, “It Ain’t Over…” has been performed with expanded arrangements, allowing the rhythm section to stretch slightly while always preserving the essence of the original groove. It remains a fan favorite—not just because of its melody or lyrics, but because of how effortlessly everything locks together.

Ultimately, it’s a song that shows how rhythm, tone, and soul can do more than flash or speed ever could. For drummers, it’s a perfect study in how subtle choices create powerful results.