Bouncy-ball heartbeat
A low note, then high bounces on every “and”, like a bouncing ball. One of the root note patterns.
How to play it
Find the notes
Put your left hand over a C chord. You need low C (little finger, 5) and high C (thumb, 1).
Count and play
Count "1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &" (say "and" for &). Play low C on 1, then high C on 1&, 2&, 3& and 4&.
Move it with the chords
When the chord changes to G, the same rhythm moves to the notes of G: low G and high G. Play it slowly over the chord loop above, at 60% speed first, then faster.
Songs that use it
Questions
What is Bouncy-ball heartbeat on piano?
A low note, then high bounces on every “and”, like a bouncing ball. The root alone in a fixed rhythm, octave jumps optional. The piano version of a kick-drum pattern. Musicians call it root bass, 1, 1&, 2&, 3&, 4&.
Is Bouncy-ball heartbeat hard to play?
It is a beginner pattern. Play it with your left hand alone at 60% speed until it feels steady, then add the other hand.
Which songs use Bouncy-ball heartbeat?
Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield, September by Earth, Wind & Fire and Out Of My Hands by Dave Matthews Band use Bouncy-ball heartbeat. The songs on this page all use it in the left hand, the most played first.