Drum Sheet – Audioslave – Like A Stone

“Like A Stone,” a standout track by Audioslave, blends the visceral intensity of rock with introspective lyrics, creating a hauntingly powerful song. The band’s formation was a supergroup union of Rage Against the Machine’s instrumentalists—Tom Morello (guitar), Tim Commerford (bass), and Brad Wilk (drums)—with Soundgarden‘s iconic vocalist Chris Cornell. This collaboration was crucial in shaping the song’s unique sound.

The composition of “Like A Stone” began during a jam session in the early 2000s. The creative synergy among the band members was palpable, with each bringing their distinct musical prowess to the table. Brad Wilk‘s drumming is particularly noteworthy, providing a robust and dynamic backbone to the song. Wilk, known for his powerful and precise drumming style, lays down a groove that is both steady and deeply emotive. His use of cymbals and toms creates a spacious yet driving rhythm that complements the song’s melancholic tone.

Chris Cornell’s poignant lyrics and haunting vocal delivery are central to the song’s impact. “Like A Stone” is a contemplation on life, death, and longing, with the lyrics painting a vivid picture of waiting for a reunion with a loved one in the afterlife. This somber theme is underscored by Wilk’s drumming, which shifts between restrained verses and explosive choruses, mirroring the song’s emotional peaks and valleys.

Audioslave recorded “Like A Stone” at Cello Studios in Los Angeles. The recording process was characterized by a high degree of collaboration and experimentation, with each band member contributing ideas and refining their parts. Wilk’s drumming was recorded with a combination of close miking and room miking techniques, capturing both the clarity of his hits and the ambient resonance of the studio space.

The song was first performed live at a small club show in Los Angeles, where the band tested new material in an intimate setting. However, it was during their extensive touring for their self-titled debut album that “Like A Stone” truly became a fan favorite. Notable performances include their set at the Lollapalooza festival in 2003 and their appearance on the David Letterman Show, where Wilk‘s drumming prowess was on full display, energizing audiences with his commanding performance.

“Like A Stone” stands as a testament to Audioslave’s ability to merge powerful instrumental work with deep, reflective songwriting. For fans of the drums, Brad Wilk’s contribution is an exemplary display of how percussion can drive a song’s emotional core, making “Like A Stone” a timeless piece in rock history.