How to Build a Better Drum Loop

The foundation for any good loop starts with a drum loop. Most drum programming today seems to be of the set and forget variety. Monotonous patterns with little variation isn't going to
make your music shine. But, with a little thought we can remedy that situation.

1. When starting out to create a loop focus on the basics  hi hat, bass and snare drum. Leave out the additional percussion parts for later when your composition is more developed and you can better sweeten your tracks.

2. If you have ever heard a drum machine play a drum roll it's usually pretty awful. Sounding more like repetitive connection of drum hits than anything resembling a real drum roll your starting to get the idea that more needs to be done. What is essentially lacking is any change of dynamics  and tonal variation in the pattern or loop.
When composing your drum loop be sure to add accents. This helps in allowing more dynamic variation. Starting with the hi hat emphasize at least the first beat of every bar. You can also add an accent(s) on any main beat (quarter note) the bass drum syncs on. You can try other variations of accents such as on the off beats (eight note) or experiment with varying the accents that fit your pattern.  The same accents can be added to the bass drum part again emphasis on the main beat(s) can liven up your track. The snare can use accents during any fill as well. Remember to use accents selectively and not at random.

3. Tonal variation is also possible. Slight pitch changes on the hi hat,  bass and snare parts can be added also, creating a more realistic feel.

4. Many drummers are often known stylistically for playing either right on the beat, slightly ahead or on top of the beat, or laying back behind the beat.  Experiment with altering the timing on your snare drum hits on the back beats (the "2"  and "4"  of the beat typically) in particular.

5. Layering sounds is possible. For example, add a second snare drum to the existing snare part.  A good trick is to add a conga part mixed lower in the track to your snare or bass drum to give a more resonant sound.  A lot of experimentation is possible here.

6. Tired of the same old beats. Try a different time signature.12/8 time or odd time signatures can add interest to your tracks.

7. Effects. There is a lot here to experiment with also. Generally I prefer dry mixes of most drum sounds. Still, you can go lo-fi  for a gritty sound, add compression to fatten snares, add delays on cymbals parts (great for reggae), or  just make small eq changes on the drum parts

While certainly not an exhaustive view, hopefully these tips can spice up your tracks and and help you build a better drum loop.

Good composing.