Ukulele Styles and Genres: Beyond the Beach
When most people think of the ukulele, they picture laid-back Hawaiian tunes or quirky indie pop covers. But this versatile four-stringed instrument has found its place in virtually every genre of music.
Let's explore the diverse styles where the ukulele shines and how you can adapt your playing to capture their unique characteristics…
Traditional Hawaiian
The ukulele's homeland offers rich traditions worth exploring. Traditional Hawaiian playing often features a technique called "campanella," where notes are played on different strings to create a bell-like, overlapping sound. Songs like "Aloha 'Oe" showcase this style.
Key techniques:
Thumb strumming, alternating bass patterns, hammer-ons and pull-offs for ornamentation. Notable players: Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, Eddie Kamae, Jake Shimabukuro
Jazz Ukulele
Yes, you can play jazz on a ukulele! Jazz ukulele typically involves complex chord voicings, walking bass lines, and improvisation. The instrument's bright tone brings a unique quality to jazz standards.
Key techniques:
Seventh and extended chords, chord melody playing, swing rhythm strumming. Notable players: Lyle Ritz, Benny Chong, Abe Lagrimas Jr.
Blues and Ragtime
The ukulele's popularity in the 1920s and 30s coincided with ragtime and early blues. These styles work surprisingly well on ukulele, with its percussive qualities and ability to create syncopated rhythms.
Key techniques:
Alternating bass notes, blues shuffle patterns, bent notes for expression. Notable players: Del Rey, Jim Beloff, Manitoba Hal
Pop and Rock
From Twenty One Pilots to Pearl Jam, many mainstream artists have incorporated ukulele into pop and rock songs. The instrument can provide gentle accompaniment or, with the right techniques, drive a rock song forward.
Key techniques:
Power chords (on tenor or baritone ukuleles), percussive strumming, use of effects pedals. Notable players: Grace VanderWaal, Billie Eilish (for some songs), Eddie Vedder
Folk and Americana
The ukulele's portability and simplicity make it perfect for folk music. Its bright tone contrasts beautifully with vocals in traditional and contemporary folk styles.
Key techniques:
Fingerpicking patterns, simple chord progressions, narrative focus. Notable players: Dustin Wong, Beirut, The Lumineers (on certain tracks)
Classical Adaptation
Some players have successfully adapted classical guitar repertoire for the ukulele. While challenging, this opens up a world of beautiful compositions from Bach to Tárrega.
Key techniques:
Precise fingerpicking, formal dynamics, strict timing. Notable players: John King, Samantha Muir, Taimane Gardner
Finding Your Style
As you explore these genres, remember that the ukulele's charm often comes from its ability to surprise. Don't be afraid to bring ukulele into unexpected musical territories… some of the most interesting ukulele music happens when players break the "rules" of traditional genres.
Start by listening widely to different ukulele styles. Try learning one song from each genre mentioned here, paying attention to the specific techniques that create each style's distinctive sound. Over time, you'll develop a versatile playing approach that can move between genres or even blend them into something uniquely yours.
Whether you're playing bluegrass breakdowns, jazzy standards, or punk rock covers, the ukulele offers something special to every genre it touches.
Get in Touch to Book a Free Trial Session
Based in Stratford, East London, we offer expert guitar and bass tuition for all ages and skill levels.
Looking to improve your playing or master new techniques? Click below to book your free trial session.
Looking to improve your playing or master new techniques? Click below to book your free trial session.
Call us at 02031434809
Send an email to lessons@guitartuitioneastlondon.co.uk
Guitar Tuition East London
8-10 Penny Brookes Street,
London, E20 1BN
8-10 Penny Brookes Street,
London, E20 1BN
