Rock and Roll legend Bo Diddley died on Monday, June 2nd. His influence cannotbe underestimated. His signature lick was a rhythmic pattern sometimes referred to as “shave and a haircut, two bits.”
You all know it. You’ve heard it countless times, as this rhythm has formed the backbone of so many great rock and roll tunes. It started with Diddley:
Here’s an example of the original “Bo Diddley” rhythm:
Here’s U2 using the rhythm in “Desire”:
The Rolling Stones used it in “Don’t Fade Away,” which is a cover of Buddy Holly’s original:
The Bow Wow Wows famous rendition of “I Want Candy” by the Strangeloves:
”Willie and the Hand Jive” by Johnny Otis:
George Thorogood playing “Who Do You Love”:
“Faith” by George Michael:
You’ll hear it everywhere, and for that reason Bo Diddley will live on…
