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So far, all the rhythmic things we've been talking about have been even eighth notes. We've divided a beat. It's been cut exactly in half. We're keeping the distance between the beats exactly halfway. But - now that you're venturing into the blues - it's time to switch that up!
In this lesson, you'll learn the mathematical way to understand shuffle grooves. You'll also explore how you can vary it to make it feel good with your playing!
Grab your guitar & let's get stuck in. :)
A 'shuffle' is a feel.
If you're following my Beginner Guitar Course, this feeling will be different from the standard timing you've previously learned. With shuffle rhythm, the 'ands' are moved a little later while the beats remain in place. This timing gives your guitar sound that groovy feel!
The most common approach is to explain it as a triplet. First, you'll need to divide a beat into three sections instead of two. That single beat is now divided into three, with the middle note missing.
At first - this might feel a little jerky! A bluesy shuffle is more than this triplet explanation. The shuffle grooves is a feeling that is flexible - and that you can easily move around!
💡 Wondering what's the best way to learn the shuffle rhythm? I recommend you start with this triplet idea. Then, you want to learn the type of blues shuffle from a Blues master you have the most connection with. Learning the blues really starts with listening to it!
If you want to hear pure blues musical genius - check out Jacob Collier explaining his love for 57% Swing. His knowledge of music is so far beyond mine! I set the time to the bit about swing percentages - but I recommend watching the whole interview!
Collier has this awesome way of thinking of shuffle rhythm in percentages. This shuffle zone is a way to visualize how to get a bluesy sound to your guitar playing. Check it out below!
Here are 7 tips to remember when you're learning shuffle rhythm & strumming on the guitar.
There is a physical part of this - the practice. For Nitsuj - he felt this was tricky! So - be patient with yourself, and keep practicing until it feels right! :)
If you read rhythmic notation, you might find this helpful!
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