Drum Sheet – Jean Schultheis – Confidence Pour Confidence

“Confidence pour Confidence” by Jean Schultheis is a standout track from the early 1980s, blending witty lyrics with a dynamic musical arrangement. Released in 1981, the song quickly became a hit in France, showcasing Schultheis’s talent not only as a singer-songwriter but also as a skilled musician and drummer. The track is best remembered for its clever wordplay, where Schultheis manipulates phrases to create a humorous and rhythmic effect, making the lyrics as percussive as the drumming itself.

Jean Schultheis was already an accomplished drummer and composer when he wrote Confidence pour Confidence. The song emerged at a time when French pop music was embracing more sophisticated and intricate arrangements. Schultheis, known for his jazz and progressive rock influences, crafted a song that was both rhythmically complex and irresistibly catchy. The drum pattern in Confidence pour Confidence is central to the song’s drive, with tight, syncopated beats that give it an almost mechanical groove. The percussive approach extends beyond the drums—his vocal delivery plays into the rhythmic feel, reinforcing the song’s infectious momentum.

Schultheis recorded the song with a mix of live instrumentation and studio precision, allowing the drums to cut through the mix with clarity and punch. The groove, built around a steady hi-hat pattern and crisp snare hits, keeps the song moving, while subtle ghost notes and dynamic fills add an expressive touch. The drum fills, particularly in the transitions, are a masterclass in restraint and groove, demonstrating Schultheis’s deep understanding of rhythm.

Upon its release, Confidence pour Confidence received extensive airplay and quickly climbed the French charts.

For fans of drumming, Confidence pour Confidence stands out as a track where rhythm drives both the music and the lyrics. Schultheis’ ability to integrate percussive elements into his songwriting made the song a timeless piece of French pop history. Its groove-heavy structure continues to resonate with drummers, proving that a great beat can be just as memorable as a melody.