Rush-and-step pulse
Three quick notes tumble out, a pause, then one high step on beat 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 e & a 2 e & a 3 e & a 4 e & a" (say "and" for &). Play low C on 1, 1a and 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 Rush-and-step pulse on piano?
Three quick notes tumble out, a pause, then one high step on beat 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, 1a, 2&, 4.
Is Rush-and-step 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 Rush-and-step pulse?
Ocean Eyes by Billie Eilish, Versace On The Floor by Bruno Mars and Don't Kill My Vibe by Sigrid use Rush-and-step pulse. The songs on this page all use it in the left hand, the most played first.