Lazy footsteps
One long low note, then two calm steps to finish the bar. 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. Play low C on 1 and hold it, then high C on 3, then low 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 Lazy footsteps on piano?
One long low note, then two calm steps to finish the bar. The root alone in a fixed rhythm, octave jumps optional. The piano version of a kick-drum pattern. Musicians call it root bass, 1, 3, 4.
Is Lazy 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 Lazy footsteps?
Salvatore by Lana Del Rey, Shape Of My Heart by Sting and Hotline Bling by Drake use Lazy footsteps. The songs on this page all use it in the left hand, the most played first.