Dawdling footsteps
Two steps, then a lazy late note after beat 3 that catches up on 4. 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 2, then low C on 3&, then high C on 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 Dawdling footsteps on piano?
Two steps, then a lazy late note after beat 3 that catches up on 4. The root alone in a fixed rhythm, octave jumps optional. The piano version of a kick-drum pattern. Musicians call it root bass, 1, 2, 3&, 4.
Is Dawdling footsteps 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 Dawdling footsteps?
Something Just Like This by The Chainsmokers & Coldplay, Heart Attack by Demi Lovato and I Want It All by High School Musical 3 Cast use Dawdling footsteps. The songs on this page all use it in the left hand, the most played first.