The Shuffle Book: Volume 1

Publisher: Hudson Music
Tim Carman, The Shuffle Book: Volume 1
With 40 accompanying video examples
The Language, Lineage, and Art of Shuffle
Pages 204
Code No.  HDBK100 

The Shuffle Book: Volume 1, by Tim Carman, is a deep dive into the feel that defines American music. From the roots of New Orleans to the driving grooves of Chicago, Texas, Mississippi, and Memphis, this book explores the full lineage of shuffle drumming across blues, jazz, rhythm & blues, and rock. 

You'll study and play a wide range of essential styles and feels, including Chicago blues shuffles, Texas “rub” shuffles, flat tire shuffles, swing shuffles, slow blues, gospel shuffles, rockabilly grooves, jump blues, and country shuffle variations like the Ray Price beat. 

Each style is presented with historical context and brought to life through detailed transcriptions inspired by legendary drummers such as Fred Below, Odie Payne Jr., Earl Palmer, and Al Jackson Jr. 

With 40 accompanying video examples, you'll not only see and hear how these grooves are played – you'll learn how to internalize the feel, phrasing, and nuance that separate authentic shuffle playing from simply “playing the pattern.” Carefully designed exercises guide you through everything from foundational triplet-based concepts to advanced fills, orchestrations, and stylistic variations.

 Whether you're refining your time, expanding your vocabulary, or developing a deeper understanding of groove, The Shuffle Book: Volume 1 gives you the tools to play with confidence, authenticity, and feel–making it an essential resource for drummers at any level.