Skip-and-stroll chords
A skippy push at the start, then calm chords on 3 and 4. One of the syncopated chord patterns.
How to play it
Find the notes
Put your right hand over a C chord. You need G (thumb, 1) and C (ring finger, 4).
Count and play
Count "1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &" (say "and" for &). Play G and C together on 1, 1&, 2&, 3 and 4.
Move it with the chords
When the chord changes to G, the same rhythm moves to the notes of G: D and G. Play it slowly over the chord loop above, at 60% speed first, then faster.
Songs that use it
Questions
What is Skip-and-stroll chords on piano?
A skippy push at the start, then calm chords on 3 and 4. Right-hand chords with off-beat pushes. Musicians call it syncopated chords, 1, 1&, 2&, 3, 4.
Is Skip-and-stroll 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 Skip-and-stroll chords?
No More by Elvis Presley, We Shall Wear A Crown by Rex Nelon and Rhinestone Cowboy by Glen Campbell use Skip-and-stroll chords. The songs on this page all use it in the right hand, the most played first.