Sprint-and-stop chords
Four quick chords in the first half, then a calm, empty second half. 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, 1&, 2 and 2& 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 Sprint-and-stop chords on piano?
Four quick chords in the first half, then a calm, empty second half. Right-hand chords with off-beat pushes. Musicians call it syncopated chords, 1, 1&, 2, 2&.
Is Sprint-and-stop 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 Sprint-and-stop chords?
California Love by 2Pac, Never Ever Getting Rid Of Me by Sara Bareilles and Neon Moon by Brooks & Dunn use Sprint-and-stop chords. The songs on this page all use it in the right hand, the most played first.