Riptide Strum Pattern: The 2-Bar Pattern That Drives the Song
Riptide works as a beginner song because the chord shapes are simple. But the strumming pattern is where most players get stuck. Not because it’s complex—it’s five strokes—but because the timing has a particular lilt that makes the song recognizable.
The 2-Bar Structure
Ellen from Good Guitarist breaks the Riptide strum pattern into two bars: one driving, one settling. Understanding this two-bar phrase structure is what separates players who grind through the song from players who make it groove.
Practice Approach
Start with the chords (Am, G, C). Add the pattern slowly. Build speed only after the feel is solid.
Video credit: Good Guitarist