From the course: Music Theory for Songwriters: Rhythm
Join today to access over 22,600 courses taught by industry experts or purchase this course individually.
Ahead of, on, or behind the beat
From the course: Music Theory for Songwriters: Rhythm
Ahead of, on, or behind the beat
- What does it mean to be on the beat? People, musician people, use words like tight, in the pocket, in the center. These terms are used to describe playing notes that are played right in time with the tempo of the music, whether that's playing live with other musicians or with the metronome or click track. It means to be playing notes that are square in the center of where the note falls within the rhythm. Usually, the kick drum and the bass instrument, like a bass guitar, define the pocket when they are playing tightly together. Pop music, EDM, fusion, or anything recorded to a click track is typically pretty centered on the beat. I'll play you an example of playing on the beat. I start with the drum beat that's tight to the click track. (metronome clicking) One. (drum music) Now, I'll add the bass with eighth notes lining up tightly with the drums. (metronome clicking) (bass music) Now, I'll add a tight guitar part on top of the bass and drums aligned with the snare on two and…
Download courses and learn on the go
Watch courses on your mobile device without an internet connection. Download courses using your iOS or Android LinkedIn Learning app.