Basic Down-Up Pattern

The most versatile strumming pattern in guitar. Foundation for countless songs across all genres.

beginnerbasic Rhythm4/4

Rhythm Notation

D-U-D-U-D-U-D-U

Strumming pattern notation

Time Signature:

4/4

Recommended Tempo:

70-120 BPM

Rhythm Character

The most versatile strumming pattern in guitar. Foundation for countless songs across all genres.

Techniques

  • •Upstroke Technique
  • •String Contact

Common Genres

  • •Pop
  • •Rock
  • •Folk
  • •Country
  • •Indie

Rhythm Variations

Folk Pattern

beginner
D-U-D-U-D-x-D-U

Skip the upstroke on beat 3

💡 Application: Classic folk and pop rhythm

Island Strum

intermediate
D-D-U-x-U-D-U

Muted downstroke adds percussive element

💡 Application: Reggae and island music feel

Pop Pattern

beginner
D-u-D-u-D-u-D-u

Emphasize certain beats for pop feel

💡 Application: Modern pop and rock songs

Famous Songs

"Wonderwall"

by Oasis

Used in: Entire song

"Good Riddance"

by Green Day

Used in: Verse and chorus

"Brown Eyed Girl"

by Van Morrison

Used in: Chorus

Practice Exercises

Continuous Motion Drill

60-80 BPMSmooth, pendulum-like motion

Develop fluid up-down motion

Steps:

  1. 1.Start with muted strings
  2. 2.Practice continuous D-U motion
  3. 3.Keep wrist loose and relaxed
  4. 4.Add chord shapes once motion is smooth
  5. 5.Focus on even timing between strokes

Focus:

Smooth, pendulum-like motion

Dynamic Control

80 BPMExpression and dynamics

Learn to vary volume and intensity

Steps:

  1. 1.Play pattern at medium volume
  2. 2.Make downstrokes slightly louder
  3. 3.Practice crescendo and decrescendo
  4. 4.Accent beat 1 and 3
  5. 5.Experiment with different dynamic patterns

Focus:

Expression and dynamics

Technical Tips

Playing Tips

  • •Upstrokes should be lighter than downstrokes
  • •Hit only the top 3-4 strings on upstrokes
  • •Keep wrist motion continuous
  • •Think pendulum motion
  • •Downstrokes hit all strings
  • •Upstrokes hit treble strings mainly
  • •Adjust angle for different tones
  • •Practice selective string hitting

Common Problems

  • •Upstrokes sound too loud or harsh
  • •Losing rhythm during chord changes
  • •Pattern sounds mechanical

Metronome Practice Guide

Time Signature
4/4
Suggested Tempo
70-120 BPM
Rhythm Pattern
D-U-D-U-D-U-D-U
D = Down, U = Up, - = Rest

Master More Guitar Rhythms

Expand your rhythmic vocabulary with our complete collection of guitar rhythms and strumming patterns.

Browse All Rhythms →Practice Exercises