What should I do about poor rhythm?

By Henry Bahrou – Guitarist, Music Theorist, Music Academy Director

The key to understanding rhythm—especially for beginning musicians—is surprisingly simple: slow down.

It’s one of the most overlooked but essential principles of learning music. Yet, time and again, students become frustrated, discouraged, or even give up altogether because they try to play too fast, too soon. Many rhythms that seem confusing or difficult can be executed with ease if approached at a manageable tempo. But in a world where instant results are expected, patience is a rare practice.

Here’s the truth: trying to force speed before mastery will only lead to tension, sloppy technique, and burnout. Slowing down allows your mind and body to process the physical coordination required to play accurately. When you train at a slower speed, your muscle memory develops correctly—and your confidence grows with each repetition.

If you’re struggling to play a fast song, one practical solution is to start with something slower. Choose a piece that matches your current ability, and gradually build from there. Rhythm is a skill of precision, not just speed. The process of repetition at a relaxed tempo is where real growth happens.

A steady, patient approach—using repetition and incremental tempo increases—will yield far better results than rushing through pieces you aren’t ready for. Even experienced musicians begin their practice sessions slowly to warm up and recalibrate.

Most rock, pop, and blues songs are based on a simple four-beat count. Mastering this foundational rhythm comes down to consistent focus and, quite literally, learning to count to four—accurately and repeatedly. Over time, this count becomes second nature. The ability to stay locked into that four-beat pulse is what separates competent players from struggling ones.

Using a metronome during your practice is highly recommended. Whether it’s a basic click or a rhythm track, having a steady pulse helps you stay grounded in time. It keeps you honest and provides the structure needed to progress efficiently.

In short: slow down, stay consistent, and embrace the process. If you do, you’ll find yourself playing more confidently and rhythmically solid in no time.

Let the rhythm guide you—one beat at a time.