In summary, this lesson is about funk rhythm and strumming using a plectrum!
We will look at understanding 16th notes/rests and the techniques that underpin accurate, fast and driving strumming. Once established, we’ll apply these techniques to ‘Play That Funky Music’ (Wild Cherry) and learn the key rhythm parts.
Firstly, we will warm up by going through a few plectrum-strumming exercises focusing on pendulum motions (wrist, elbow), dynamics (attack and being soft), fretting hand muting and speed bursts, etc.
The second stage is focused on the song’s rhythm parts with the opening riff, the verse, bridge and chorus strumming. We’ll make extensive use of a very accessible E9 chord (played as a C shape on either the middle string set only of the top five strings – cool-sounding and easy)
Materials
Detailed PDFs for both the warm-ups and the song’s lead sheet and score (excludes the solo).
Course suitability
Beginner+ to intermediate levels for both acoustic and electric guitar players. No barre chords in this one; we’ll be making extensive use of a very accessible E9 shape.