Island pulse
Three, three, two: the island rhythm in so many pop hits. One of the root note patterns.
How to play it
Find the notes
Put your left hand over a C chord. It plays one note, C (little finger, 5).
Count and play
Count "1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &" (say "and" for &). Play C on 1, 2& and 4.
Move it with the chords
When the chord changes to G, the same rhythm moves to the notes of G: G. Play it slowly over the chord loop above, at 60% speed first, then faster.
Songs that use it
Questions
What is Island pulse on piano?
Three, three, two: the island rhythm in so many pop hits. The root alone in a fixed rhythm, octave jumps optional. The piano version of a kick-drum pattern. Musicians call it root bass, tresillo 3-3-2.
Is Island pulse 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 Island pulse?
Some Nights (Intro) by fun., Unstoppable by Sia and Brass In Pocket by The Pretenders use Island pulse. The songs on this page all use it in the left hand, the most played first.