The kick drum is the large drum played with a foot pedal, or the low percussive sound it makes. It is a key part that sets the weight of the beat and the foundation of the low end.
The basic idea
Placing it on every beat for a four-on-the-floor feel, or combining it with the bass in rock, changes how the song drives. Its relationship with the bass matters most.
How to use it when playing and programming
Start with a simple pattern at your chosen BPM and check where it sounds at the same time as the bass. If the low end feels heavy, revisit the note lengths.
How it differs from related terms
The kick drum is the low part of the drum kit, while the snare drum is the mid-to-high part that marks the divisions of the beat.
Rather than a complex pattern, decide first where the weight of the song sits and things will settle.
