How to Beatbox the Basics with Your Family

Learn simple beatboxing techniques that kids and parents can practice together for musical fun at home.

1. Start with the basic drum sounds. Begin with three essential sounds that form the foundation of beatboxing. The kick drum is made by saying 'B' with your lips closed, then opening them quickly to create a popping sound. The hi-hat is a sharp 'T' sound made by putting your tongue on the roof of your mouth and pulling it away quickly. The snare drum is made by saying 'K' but pushing the sound out through your throat rather than your mouth. Practice each sound slowly and clearly before trying to combine them.
2. Learn your first beat pattern. Once you can make the three basic sounds, try putting them together in a simple pattern. Start with: kick, hi-hat, snare, hi-hat. This sounds like: B-T-K-T. Say this pattern slowly at first, then gradually speed up as you get comfortable. Count along: 1-2-3-4, 1-2-3-4. This creates a basic hip-hop beat that sounds great even when you're just starting out.
3. Add rhythm and flow. As you get comfortable with the basic pattern, start playing with timing and volume. Make some sounds louder and others softer. Try adding extra hi-hats between the main beats by inserting quick 'T' sounds. You can also experiment with making the kick drum sound deeper by rounding your lips more, or making the snare sharper by emphasizing the 'K' sound.
4. Practice together as a family. Take turns beatboxing while others dance, rap, or sing along. Create call-and-response games where one person beatboxes a pattern and others repeat it back. Try beatboxing to the rhythm of favorite songs, or use beatboxing to keep time during car rides or while doing chores. Remember that everyone's voice is different, so each family member's beatbox will sound unique.