8th Note Down Stroke Strumming

This lesson introduces 8th note downstroke strumming, where every beat and every “+” is played with a downstroke.

How it Works

Instead of alternating downstrokes and upstrokes, we’ll play every 8th note using downstrokes only:

1 + 2 + 3 + 4 +

This creates a strong, driving strumming feel that shows up in a lot of rock and punk-style rhythm guitar.

Focus on keeping the downstrokes steady, even, and relaxed. Let your hand return smoothly after each stroke so the rhythm stays consistent.

Start slowly and work toward making all eight downstrokes feel clear and controlled.