Run-up chords
Four steady chords plus a quick extra one leading into the next bar. One of the syncopated 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 &" (say "and" for &). Play E, G and C together on 1, 2, 3, 4 and 4&.
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 Run-up chords on piano?
Four steady chords plus a quick extra one leading into the next bar. Right-hand chords with off-beat pushes. Musicians call it syncopated chords, 1, 2, 3, 4, 4&.
Is Run-up 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 Run-up chords?
Sign Of The Times by Harry Styles, Bloody Mary by Lady Gaga and Wonderwall by Oasis use Run-up chords. The songs on this page all use it in the right hand, the most played first.