easy lesson
The Money Beat
Snare on 2 and 4, kick on 1 and the '&' of 2 — the most-recorded groove in popular music. Once it is in your hands you can play along to thousands of songs.
Play it yourself — keyboard or your own kit
Eighth-note hi-hats with the snare backbeat on 2 and 4.
Add a kick on beat 1.
Add a second kick on the '&' of beat 2 (step 6). That small syncopated push is what gives the money beat its forward motion.