Rhythm Notation
Strumming pattern notation
Time Signature:
4/4
Recommended Tempo:
120-160 BPM
Rhythm Character
The driving alternating bass pattern that mimics a train's rhythm. Essential for country and rockabilly music.
Techniques
- •Alternating Bass
- •Boom-Chick Feel
- •Speed Control
Common Genres
- •Country
- •Bluegrass
- •Rockabilly
- •Western Swing
- •Honky Tonk
Rhythm Variations
Walking Bass
advancedAdd passing notes between chords
💡 Application: Jazz country and western swing
Double Stop Train
intermediateTwo notes on bass hits
💡 Application: Fuller country sound
Rockabilly Slap
advancedAdd percussive slap
💡 Application: Rockabilly and psychobilly
Famous Songs
"Folsom Prison Blues"
by Johnny Cash
Used in: Main rhythm
"Rocky Top"
by Traditional
Used in: Driving rhythm
"Mama Tried"
by Merle Haggard
Used in: Rhythm guitar
"Blue Moon of Kentucky"
by Bill Monroe
Used in: Fast train beat
Practice Exercises
Bass Note Accuracy
Perfect your alternating bass
Steps:
- 1.Practice bass notes only
- 2.Use G chord: G-D-G-D bass
- 3.Add simple strum on 2 and 4
- 4.Keep bass notes prominent
- 5.Gradually increase tempo
Focus:
Clean bass separation
Train Beat Endurance
Build stamina for fast playing
Steps:
- 1.Start at comfortable tempo
- 2.Play for 2 minutes straight
- 3.Increase tempo by 10 BPM
- 4.Focus on relaxation
- 5.Monitor tension points
Focus:
Endurance and consistency
Country Progression Workout
Apply to standard country changes
Steps:
- 1.Use G-C-D progression
- 2.Practice smooth transitions
- 3.Add walk-ups between chords
- 4.Work on I-IV-V in different keys
- 5.Play along with country songs
Focus:
Musical application
Technical Tips
Playing Tips
- •Use root on beat 1
- •Alternate to 5th on beat 3
- •Keep bass notes clear and strong
- •Palm mute for definition
- •Strong bass note (boom)
- •Light treble strum (chick)
- •Keep it steady like a train
- •Feel the forward motion
- •Start slow and build
- •Economy of motion essential
- •Don't sacrifice clarity for speed
- •Relax to play faster
Common Problems
- •Bass notes not clear enough
- •Can't maintain speed
- •Losing alternating pattern
Metronome Practice Guide
Master More Guitar Rhythms
Expand your rhythmic vocabulary with our complete collection of guitar rhythms and strumming patterns.