Drum Sheet – The Knack – My Sharona

“My Sharona” by The Knack is a timeless rock anthem that continues to captivate audiences with its infectious energy and catchy hooks. For drum enthusiasts, the heartbeat of this iconic track is as exhilarating as it gets. Let’s delve into the fascinating story behind the creation of this legendary song and its drum-driven groove.

In the late 1970s, The Knack was a rising band on the Los Angeles music scene, driven by the youthful exuberance of guitarist Berton Averre, bassist Prescott Niles, drummer Bruce Gary, and the charismatic frontman Doug Fieger. The genesis of “My Sharona” can be traced back to a pivotal moment when Averre stumbled upon a riff that would become the song’s iconic opening guitar lick. Inspired by this infectious riff, Fieger penned lyrics that reflected the intense infatuation he felt for a young woman named Sharona Alperin.

With the foundation laid, The Knack embarked on a collaborative effort to flesh out the song’s arrangement. Bruce Gary, with his dynamic drumming style, played a crucial role in shaping the rhythmic backbone of “My Sharona.” His driving beats and precise fills injected the song with an irresistible groove, propelling it forward with relentless momentum. Gary‘s skillful use of syncopation and his ability to accentuate the song’s infectious hooks added depth and texture to the composition.

As The Knack fine-tuned “My Sharona,” they began showcasing it at gigs across Los Angeles, including legendary venues like the Whisky a Go Go and The Roxy Theatre. The song’s electrifying energy and undeniable catchiness quickly caught the attention of audiences, earning it a devoted following. However, it wasn’t until the band caught the ear of producer Mike Chapman that “My Sharona” was poised for its meteoric rise to fame.

Chapman recognized the song’s immense potential and helmed the recording sessions that would ultimately yield The Knack‘s debut album, “Get the Knack.” Released in 1979, “My Sharona” catapulted to the top of the charts, becoming an international sensation and cementing its status as a quintessential rock anthem of the era.

For fans of the drums, “My Sharona” remains a testament to Bruce Gary‘s exceptional talent and his ability to elevate a song with his electrifying rhythms. His dynamic performance on the track continues to inspire drummers around the world, ensuring that “My Sharona” remains a timeless classic for generations to come.