Eighth Note Rhythm Patterns
Here are some eighth note rhythm patterns in * time. Any rhythm pattern can be used on any chord progression.
Practice the following eighth note patterns holding a G chord and then apply these patterns to the chord progressions in Lesson One and Two.
E Seventh Chord
E7
To play the E7 chord, use the first and second fingers of your left hand as shown in the diagram, and strum all six strings. The E7 chord shape is just the E chord shape with the third finger lifted off.
The following chord progression contains an E7 chord and uses eighth note rhythm pattern 1. When changing between the A and D chords use your first finger as a pivot. When changing between D and E7 slide your first finger along the third string.
Rhythm Pattern
Practice new chord changes using a basic rhythm pattern first. Once you are confident with the progression then use the eighth note rhythm pattern. You can apply any rhythm pattern to a chord progression. This chord progression uses eighth note rhythm pattern 4.
Keep your first finger on the third string throughout this example. A slide finger can be used between each chord change.
Rhythm Pattern
This chord progression uses eighth note rhythm pattern 2. Use your second finger as a pivot when changing between A and C chords. Finish with one strum of the first chord (G).
Rhythm Pattern
Try applying an eighth note rhythm pattern to the following 16 bar Country progression.
Rhythm Pattern
The next example uses a two bar rhythm that combines eighth note rhythm patterns 2 and 3.
Rhythm Pattern
Rhythm Pattern
The last example in this lesson is an 8 bar Country progression that uses eighth note rhythm pattern 3.
Rhythm Pattern
