Rock strumming pattern
The most common rock strumming pattern is straight eighth notes, all downstrokes: eight strums per bar (↓ ↓ ↓ ↓ ↓ ↓ ↓ ↓), counting "1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &", with the beats a little louder and, ideally, only on the low strings of the chord (a power chord).
Now E Next A
4/4- downstroke
- > accent (louder)
Step by step
The whole pattern, with the accents.
Chords
Space bar: play/stop
The pattern as a table
| Beat | On the beat | Offbeat (&) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | ↓, accent | ↓ |
| 2 | ↓, accent | ↓ |
| 3 | ↓, accent | ↓ |
| 4 | ↓, accent | ↓ |
How to play it
- Play only the two or three lowest strings of the chord (root, fifth and octave): that is the power-chord sound.
- Rest the side of your hand on the strings near the bridge to mute them slightly (palm mute): the sound gets tight and punchy.
- Short motion from the wrist. At fast tempos the whole arm gets tired.
- Accent the beats (1, 2, 3, 4) and play the "&"s lighter.
Common mistakes
- Hitting the strings on the way back up: after each strum the hand returns above the strings.
- Muting so much that the notes disappear.
- Strumming too wide and hitting all six strings: with distortion it turns to mush.
Play along
Frequently asked questions
Why play all downstrokes in rock?
Downstrokes are stronger and more even, which gives rock its steady drive. At very fast tempos many players alternate down and up so they do not tire.
Can I play the rock pattern on an acoustic guitar?
Yes: with power chords or full chords, muting slightly with the side of your hand.