Eighth note triplet rhythms are three evenly spaced strums within one beat. One bar of eighth note triplets in * time would consist of four groups of three strums. There are 12 strums per bar but still only four beats. Notice that there are two downstrums in this pattern - down up down. This means you will play two downstrums in a row between the third part of one beat and the first part of the next beat. Play the first downstrum of each group of three louder.
Play the following rhythm pattern holding a C chord.
Triplet Rhythm Pattern
Play the following chord progression using the previous triplet rhythm pattern.
The next example uses a triplet rhythm on the second and third beats.
Triplet Rhythm Pattern
Here is a 12 bar Jazz Blues progression using a triplet on the second beat. Notice the use of augmented and diminished chords in this progression. These chords are commonly used in Jazz.
Triplet Rhythm Pattern
This traditional song was made famous by Louis Armstrong and has been played by many of the great Jazz players.
Triplet Rhythm Pattern