In this video course we’re going to continue our study of different feels and take a look at the shuffle feel. Shuffle grooves are based on a triplet subdivision, where the beat naturally divides into three, rather than two or four. This gives the music a very different feel. For examples of slapped shuffle grooves, I recommend listening to 'Higher Ground' by Red Hot Chili Peppers, 'Lopsy Lu' by Stanley Clarke and 'Heathrow' by Level 42.

When playing over the shuffle feel you’ll probably find that many of your favourite slap and pop fills and grooves don’t work, or will need to be adapted. Because of this, it is a good idea to practise the slap technique over this feel. It’s also a good idea to keep a mental repertoire of grooves, fills and solo figures that work well in this feel - these exercises will be a great help in that regard.

Shuffle grooves can either be written in 4/4 time using triplets, or in 12/8 time, where the beat naturally divides into three. Both are used in the notation of these exercises.