Radiohead – Karma Police

Karma Police drum sheet music – a note-for-note transcription of Philip Selway’s drum part on Radiohead’s “Karma Police”, from the album OK Computer (1997). Every groove, fill and cymbal hit is written out from the original recording in a clean, print-ready PDF.

About the drum part

“Karma Police” from OK Computer is one of Radiohead’s most loved songs. Philip Selway’s drum part is a perfect example of playing for the song: a steady, understated groove that never gets in the way.

The drums rest for the eight-bar piano intro, then settle into an eighth-note hi-hat groove with the snare on 2 and 4 and a gently syncopated bass drum. The groove is written out bar by bar because it changes slightly – the bass drum placement moves and open hi-hats close each two-bar phrase. In the chorus the drums drop out after a single crash and then return.

What’s in the Karma Police drum sheet music

This Karma Police drum sheet music writes out every small variation in the groove, labels the sections (intro, verses and choruses), and marks every open hi-hat. It is an easy chart to read and a great one to play along with.

Looking for Karma Police drum tabs? This is full drum notation on a five-line staff, so it shows the exact rhythm of every note – something tabs can’t do.

Song facts

• Artist: Radiohead
• Album: OK Computer (1997)
• Drummer: Philip Selway
• Tempo: ♩ = 75
• Time signature: 4/4
• Style: Alternative rock
• Level: Beginner to intermediate

What you get

• The full song, transcribed note-for-note from the original recording
• Clearly labelled song sections
• Professionally engraved, print-ready PDF
• Instant download after purchase

How to practise Karma Police on drums

Once you have the Karma Police drum sheet music, here is a good way to learn it:

1. Play softly. The song is gentle. Use a light touch on the hi-hat and snare.
2. Notice the variations. Compare bars and see how the bass drum changes – play exactly what is written.
3. Count the rests. Count the chorus rests so you come back in on time.
4. Focus on time. At 75 bpm, practise with a metronome to keep the groove steady.

Reading tips for this chart

• Open and closed hi-hat are marked with a small “o” (open) and “+” (closed) above the note. The timing of the openings is part of the groove, so follow them closely.
• Section labels in boxes (such as I, V1, C1) name each part of the song – intro, verse, chorus and so on – so you can find your place quickly.

Who is it for?

This Karma Police drum sheet music is ideal for beginner and intermediate drummers who want a famous song that teaches consistency, feel and playing quietly.

More Radiohead drum sheet music

You might also like Creep, and the rest of the Radiohead drum sheet music collection.

Frequently asked questions

Is this Karma Police drum sheet music the full song?

Yes. It is the complete drum part, transcribed note-for-note from the original recording on OK Computer. Nothing is simplified.

Is it a drum tab or real notation?

It is real drum notation, the standard way drum parts are written. If you are used to tabs, it is worth the switch – notation shows rhythm exactly, which tabs can’t.

How do I get the PDF after I buy?

The download link appears straight after checkout and is also sent to your email. You can print the PDF or read it on a tablet.

Listen to the song on YouTube · Got any questions? Get in touch · Need another song? Custom drum transcriptions