In celebration of Black History Month, we figured it’s prime time to shine a spotlight on blues godfather and rock ‘n’ roll progenitor, Bo Diddley. In this clip, ArtistWorks blues guitar master Keith Wyatt breaks down the Bo Diddley beat —  one of the only musical terms actually named after a musician — and provides some insight into the musician’s iconic career.

To anyone who’s setting out to learn how to play the guitar, having an understanding of the Bo Diddley beat is a great primer. First introduced in Diddley’s 1955 self-titled debut single, this syncopated rhythm went one to become a key element of some of rock and pop’s biggest hits. The beat’s origins come from Diddley’s background in the church, mixed with the clave rhythm found in Afro-Cuban music. 

As the irresistible rhythm behind "I Want Candy" by the Strangeloves (1965), "Magic Bus" by the Who (1968), "American Girl" by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers (1977) and "Faith" by George Michael (1987), you’ve undoubtedly heard the Bo Diddley beat plenty of times. Check out the lesson below to learn the rhythm and make it part of your own practice sessions and jams.