In this Sidetrax episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl explore the pull of songs built on 6/8 and other six-based feels. They break down why this meter hits differently, how it shapes emotion and groove, and why it shows up everywhere from soul classics to modern pop. The discussion moves from music theory basics to a curated tour of standout tracks across decades, plus a few surprises, fake sponsors, and a live listening reaction.
Key Points
- How 6/8 differs from 3/4 and 4/4, and why the “feel” matters more than the notation.
- Why the six-feel creates sway, momentum, and emotional weight.
- Historical roots in church music, blues, and early soul.
- Why shuffle feels, triplet feels, and swing blur into the same rhythmic family as 6/8.
- Examples where the meter is ambiguous but the feel is undeniable (Toto, Dave Matthews Band, System of a Down, A Perfect Circle).
- Live reaction to Led Zeppelin’s Since I’ve Been Loving You from The Song Remains the Same.
- The 6/8 connection back to blues and gospel as the foundation for countless modern ballads.
- Sidetrax flavor: fake sponsors, foraging paranoia, and Dan and Carl being Dan and Carl.
- Extended version with music clips available on Patreon.
Music Referenced
