Lesson 8 – Power Chords & Rock Rhythm
Learn easy two-note power chords and how to use them in rock-style rhythm playing.
What Is a Power Chord?
A power chord uses just two (or sometimes three) notes – the root and the fifth. It’s neither major nor minor and works great with distortion or clean tones. Most rock and punk music relies on these simple shapes.
Basic 6th-String Power Chord Shape
- Index finger on the low E (6th string), any fret.
- Ring finger two frets higher on the A string (5th string).
- Optional: pinky on the D string (same fret as the ring finger).
- Play only the fretted strings and mute the others with your index finger.
Common Power Chord Shapes
- E5 – open 6th string + 2nd fret on A string
- G5 – 3rd fret (E string) + 5th fret (A string)
- A5 – 5th fret (E string) + 7th fret (A string)
5th-String Power Chords
The same shape moves to the A string:
- Root is on the A string.
- Mute the low E string so it doesn't ring.
- D5 – 5th fret (A string) + 7th fret (D string)
Rock Rhythm Techniques
- Use short, punchy downstrokes for a tight rock sound.
- Try simple patterns like 1–2–3–4 or D D U U D U.
- Add palm muting by lightly resting the edge of your hand near the bridge.
Example Power Chord Progression
Try this classic rock pattern:
- E5 → G5 → A5 → G5
- Play each chord for 4 beats.
- Repeat, then increase the tempo when ready.
Suggested Practice
- Move the same shape up and down the 6th string.
- Repeat the exercise on the 5th string.
- Make your own 3–4 chord rock progression.
- Experiment with palm muting, accents, and downstroke-only playing.