Sixteenth Notes
A sixteenth note is equal to one fourth of a quarter note. Since the beat in * time is based on quarter notes, there would be four sixteenth notes per beat. In most Funk music, the groove is based on an underlying feel of constant 16th notes, often implied rather than played.
To become a good Funk player, it is essential to have complete control over the use of 16th notes. The following exercise is an example of constant 16th notes. When counting, notice the different sound for each part of the beat – one ee and ah, two ee and ah... etc (written 1 e + a, 2 e + a... etc).
Try playing the Blues scale using sixteenth notes.
An important thing to remember when using sixteenth notes is to tap your foot on the beat only and not in between the beats. The following example uses quarter notes, eighth notes and sixteenth notes. Tap your foot evenly and count out loud as you play.
Here are some rhythmic figures which combine sixteenth notes and eighth notes within one beat. These figures are very common in Funk, so you will need to know them well. Practice each one carefully and be sure to tap your foot and count.
Once you have learned these rhythms on a single note, try using them with the Blues scale as shown in the following example which uses the rhythm from example 87.
