A simple reggae strum pattern uses a down-strum on the “and” like “1 (and) 2 (and) 3 (and) 4 (and) 1. . . " Your first strum should be a down-strum. [1] X Research source There are some exceptions to the “play on the offbeat” rule. Music is largely about conveying a sense of feeling or getting into a groove. The strumming of the strings is referred to by many different names in reggae. Some call it a “chop,” “skank,” or “bang. "
Once you are more experienced with reggae, you may be able to alternate between playing down-strums and down-up strums, but while learning it may be easiest to stick with one at a time. Another common strum pattern is to single strum on the first offbeat and then do a down-up strum on the second offbeat. [2] X Research source
By muting the strings and focusing on the strum pattern, it’s likely you’ll pick up the groove of reggae music more quickly.
Again, you may find it easiest to strum along with the song you have chosen by muting the strings with firm pressure in your left hand across the fretboard. This way, you won’t be distracted by the sound and can focus on matching the rhythm.
Try playing chords with while using extremely light pressure, moderate pressure, heavy pressure with your left hand on the strings. Your left hand affects the sound of the strum of your chords not just by pressure on the strings but also duration. While using different levels of pressure, experiment with pressure duration. For example, you might use moderate pressure at the onset followed by the release of your left hand.
Use moderate pressure with your left hand on your fretboard when playing the stuck line. Finger pick the notes of the stuck line to create a distinct sound in the notes.
Many times, beginning guitarists will approach the strings on an angle with their right hand. This kind of technique can lead to missed strings in the strum. You can play reggae with a three or four string strum, but using all five is recommended. This will give you a fuller sound in your playing. The rhythm of the music is more important than hitting all the strings. As the rhythm becomes easier, you can shift your focus to hitting all the strings.
Your guitar should bounce slightly with your left hand as you push the sound out by drawing your right hand across the strings.
At first, look through the music and pick chords that come easy to you and sound the best together. Then try linking these with more difficult chords. Take your time connecting the chords together slowly and fluidly. This is a good opportunity for you to practice and learn the song inside and out. Once you are more comfortable, choose more complex chords and variations to put your own flavor on the sound.
You can look up the chords or the tabs for many of the songs played by professional musicians online. This way you don’t have to guess at which chord is being played.
