Knock-knock footsteps
Step, then a quick knock-knock, a pause, and one last step. 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 2&, 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 Knock-knock footsteps on piano?
Step, then a quick knock-knock, a pause, and one last step. 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, 2&, 4.
Is Knock-knock 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 Knock-knock footsteps?
Paparazzi by Lady Gaga, Sunflower by Post Malone & Swae Lee and Natural by Imagine Dragons use Knock-knock footsteps. The songs on this page all use it in the left hand, the most played first.