MODULE 4
Croc Rockin'
In this module you will explore how to use interchangeable strumming patterns to create a more advanced ukulele sound and technique. This is where the fun really begins! All of the following techniques work great with Elton John's CROCODILE ROCK, although this is a slightly different arrangement from the original song.
Flamenco STRUM & WALKDOWN
A walk-down sequence is a common ukulele chord progression that involves moving down the chromatic scale to connect two chords. It is often used to create a smooth transition between two chords, when transitioning to a chord that is lower in pitch.
For this sequence we will start on a barred D major chord descending to a D7 chord, then a Bm7 followed by an Am7.
EXERCISE: Play one dampened down strum on each of the following chords:
For this sequence we will start on a barred D major chord descending to a D7 chord, then a Bm7 followed by an Am7.
EXERCISE: Play one dampened down strum on each of the following chords:
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EXERCISE: Now lets add some of those flamenco strums and the walk down together by practicing this sequence:
HALF CHUCK & BLUES FILL
This combo sounds fantastic ending with the two bar blues fill at the end of the sequence.
EXERCISE: For this sequence we will start with two bars of G, followed by two bars of Bm, two bars of C and the final two bars with a D7 using the blues fill:
EXERCISE: For this sequence we will start with two bars of G, followed by two bars of Bm, two bars of C and the final two bars with a D7 using the blues fill:
CHUCK STRUM & BLUES FILL
Playing alternative chord shapes can give your sound a really enhanced effect, changing the timbre of the overall sound and also improves your fingerboard knowledge.
EXERCISE: Try the same sequence as above but with a full chuck technique using alternative barred chord positions for G & C and try chucking with releasing the pressure on your fretting hand.
EXERCISE: Try the same sequence as above but with a full chuck technique using alternative barred chord positions for G & C and try chucking with releasing the pressure on your fretting hand.
MULTI-STRUM COMBO 1
This sequence will really get you rocking! Being able to switch strumming patterns within various sections is a great skill to acquire and opens so many possibilities for your ukulele playing.
EXERCISE: Try combining dampened chords with the extended calypso along with the blues fill with a more advanced technique using an 'on', 'off' motion on the A7 and a walk down sequence from G to C6 chord, which is exactly the same open string notes as Am7.
NB: Note the red 'X' above the G string on the Gb chord. This symbolises that you should not play that string when striking the chord. Many chord shapes have two or more chord names depending on what key they are played in.
EXERCISE: Try combining dampened chords with the extended calypso along with the blues fill with a more advanced technique using an 'on', 'off' motion on the A7 and a walk down sequence from G to C6 chord, which is exactly the same open string notes as Am7.
NB: Note the red 'X' above the G string on the Gb chord. This symbolises that you should not play that string when striking the chord. Many chord shapes have two or more chord names depending on what key they are played in.
MULTI-STRUM COMBO 2
Let's talk about leaving space. Space within a bar can be just as effective as filling every beat with a strum and can be a great way to enhance the lyrics for that particular section.
EXERCISE: In the sequence below and notice how the strumming pattern gives an alternative syncopated effect on the final two bars.
EXERCISE: In the sequence below and notice how the strumming pattern gives an alternative syncopated effect on the final two bars.
CROCODILE ROCK
Once you have mastered each of the above sections, you will be pleased to know that you can add them all together to play Elton John's smash hit, CROCODILE ROCK. Remember to take your time and make sure you can play all sections independently before attempting to put them together.
Download the PDF song sheet below and have a listen to the audio track with all sections played together at 80BPM so that you can practice the entire song structure at a steady pace before playing full speed.
Download the PDF song sheet below and have a listen to the audio track with all sections played together at 80BPM so that you can practice the entire song structure at a steady pace before playing full speed.