Bo Diddley beat

/ ˌbəʊ ˈdɪdlɪ ˈbiːt /

noun

1. a type of syncopated Black rhythm, frequently used in rock music

Word History and Origins

Origin of Bo Diddley beat¹

C20: named after Bo Diddley (1929–2008), US rhythm-and-blues performer and songwriter

Example Sentences

That was the mission statement that opened Television’s debut album, with a trilling riff and a warped Bo Diddley beat: new and old, terse and encompassing, absolutely committed.

From New York Times

On “Not Fade Away,” Mr. Holly played a Bo Diddley beat while Mr. Allison wove snare fills in and out of the guitar rhythm.

From Washington Post

“Death of Magic Thinking” meshes a pummeling march with a Bo Diddley beat and multiple jabbing, scrabbling guitars, steamrollering through a skewed chord progression and a tale of adolescent bewilderment.

From New York Times

In “Hate Myself,” Dodie sings, over a subtle Bo Diddley beat, about blaming herself for every gap in communication.

From New York Times

Fizzing with their enthusiasm for music forbidden under post-punk’s rules, Desire’s irresistible Bo Diddley beat is evidence.

From The Guardian