8th Note Down Stroke Strumming

This lesson introduces 8th note downstroke accents, where every 8th note is played with a downstroke, but certain beats are played louder to create emphasis.

How it Works

Instead of playing every downstroke at the same volume, we’ll make specific strokes stand out by adding accents:

1 + 2 + 3 + 4 +

The accented downstrokes should feel stronger and more intentional, while the other notes stay lighter and controlled.

This creates a more energetic, driving strumming feel and helps bring rhythm patterns to life.

Focus on keeping the downstrokes steady, even, and relaxed, while making the accents clear without tensing up your hand.

Start slowly and work toward making the accented strokes feel strong and consistent while the full 8th note rhythm stays smooth.