Pausing chords
Three steady chords, then beat 4 left empty to breathe. One of the block chord patterns.
How to play it
Find the notes
Put your right hand over a C chord. You need E (thumb, 1), G (index finger, 2) and C (little finger, 5).
Count and play
Count 1, 2, 3, 4. Play E, G and C together on 1, 2 and 3 and hold it.
Move it with the chords
When the chord changes to G, the same rhythm moves to the notes of G: B, D and G. Play it slowly over the chord loop above, at 60% speed first, then faster.
Songs that use it
Questions
What is Pausing chords on piano?
Three steady chords, then beat 4 left empty to breathe. Right-hand chords struck together on the beat. Musicians call it block chords, 1, 2, 3.
Is Pausing chords hard to play?
It is a beginner pattern. Play it with your right hand alone at 60% speed until it feels steady, then add the other hand.
Which songs use Pausing chords?
Flashing Lights by Kanye West, Paparazzi by Lady Gaga and Thriller by Michael Jackson use Pausing chords. The songs on this page all use it in the right hand, the most played first.