In our last lesson, we looked at the basics of funk rhythm guitar—muting, right-hand timing, and sixteenth-note subdivisions. Today, we’re going to take that groove further by adding accents.
Accents are what give funk guitar its dynamic pulse. Instead of strumming every note at the same intensity, we highlight certain beats while keeping the groove flowing underneath. This creates that irresistible “bounce” funk is famous for.
Step 1: Understanding Accents in Sixteenth Notes
Set your metronome to 60 bpm. Each beat will be split into four subdivisions (semiquavers / sixteenth notes).
Count it out as:
1 e & a | 2 e & a | 3 e & a | 4 e & a
Now, strum muted strings continuously (keep your right hand moving in steady down-up motion), but only accent one note in the subdivision.
- Try accenting the 1.
- Then accent the e.
- Then the &.
- Then the a.
This exercise trains you to stay in time while shifting emphasis, which is essential for funk grooves.
Step 2: Accent Placement
Once you’re comfortable accenting individual sixteenth notes, try:
- Accenting every beat (1, 2, 3, 4).
- Accenting the upbeats (&).
- Mixing accents, like accenting 1 and a or 2 and &.
This builds rhythmic flexibility and stops your groove from sounding mechanical.
Step 3: Applying Accents to Funk Chords
Now let’s bring chords into the picture. A classic funk shape to try is F9 (a dominant 9th chord).
- Keep strumming steady sixteenth notes.
- Place your accents on different subdivisions. For example:
- Accent only beat 2.
- Accent every upbeat (1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &).
- Accent 1 e & a as a driving pattern.
The combination of muted strums + targeted accents is what makes funk so tight and percussive.
Step 4: Counting Methods
You can count subdivisions two ways:
- Numerical: 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4
- Syllabic: 1 e & a, 2 e & a, 3 e & a, 4 e & a
The syllabic method is often clearer when practicing accents because each syllable maps to a strum.
Final Thoughts
Practicing accents will sharpen your rhythmic awareness and right-hand control. Start slow with a metronome, keep your groove consistent, and gradually experiment with accents in different spots.
Once you’ve got this down, you’ll notice your funk playing feels tighter, more expressive, and way more groovy.
Cheers, and happy practicing! Feel free to contact me for help.
Quick Recap
- Keep your right hand moving in steady sixteenth notes.
- Accent different subdivisions (1, e, &, a).
- Apply accents to chords like F9 for real funk grooves.
- Count “1 e & a” to stay locked in.