Rare Time Signatures

Exploring unconventional time signatures can add a unique and intriguing element to your music, setting it apart from the more common 4/4 or 3/4 patterns.

Here are some underrated time signatures that can inspire creativity and bring a fresh perspective to your compositions.

1. 5/4 Time Signature

Overview: The 5/4 time signature consists of five beats per measure. It creates an off-kilter, yet compelling rhythmic flow that can add a sense of unpredictability and excitement to your music.

Usage: Famous examples of 5/4 include Dave Brubeck’s “Take Five” and Radiohead’s “Morning Bell.” This time signature is excellent for jazz, progressive rock, and experimental music, giving a slightly asymmetrical feel that keeps listeners engaged.

2. 7/8 Time Signature

Overview: The 7/8 time signature includes seven eighth notes per measure. This creates a rhythm that can feel both familiar and unusual, as it combines groups of two and three beats in an uneven but interesting way.

Usage: Bands like Tool (“Schism”) and Pink Floyd (“Money”) have effectively used 7/8 to create complex and captivating rhythms. This time signature works well in progressive rock, jazz fusion, and modern classical music, offering a syncopated groove that stands out.

3. 9/8 Time Signature

Overview: The 9/8 time signature contains nine eighth notes per measure, typically divided into three groups of three. This compound time signature can create a lilting, dance-like feel.

Usage: 9/8 is commonly used in classical music and traditional dances. For example, Tchaikovsky’s “Waltz of the Flowers” and Sting’s “I Hung My Head” both utilize 9/8 to great effect. This signature is perfect for creating a triple-time feel that is more complex than the usual 3/4.

4. 11/8 Time Signature

Overview: The 11/8 time signature comprises eleven eighth notes per measure, which can be grouped in various ways to create a distinctive and intricate rhythm.

Usage: 11/8 is often used in progressive rock and world music. King Crimson’s “Thela Hun Ginjeet” and some traditional Balkan music pieces feature this time signature. It is ideal for compositions that require a complex and sophisticated rhythmic structure.

5. 13/8 Time Signature

Overview: The 13/8 time signature includes thirteen eighth notes per measure. This highly irregular time signature can create a sense of tension and resolution that is both engaging and challenging.

Usage: This time signature is found in some progressive rock and jazz compositions. Frank Zappa frequently experimented with such complex time signatures, and modern bands like Dream Theater have also explored 13/8. It’s suitable for creating intricate, evolving musical passages.

6. 15/16 Time Signature

Overview: The 15/16 time signature consists of fifteen sixteenth notes per measure. It’s a fast, complex time signature that can create rapid, intricate rhythms.

Usage: Used by bands like Meshuggah in metal and by composers in contemporary classical music, 15/16 is perfect for high-energy, intricate pieces that push rhythmic boundaries.

7. 12/8 Time Signature

Overview: While not as uncommon as others on this list, the 12/8 time signature deserves mention for its versatility. It includes twelve eighth notes per measure, typically divided into four groups of three, creating a rolling, triplet-based feel.

Usage: 12/8 is popular in blues, jazz, and rock ballads. Songs like The Beatles’ “I Want You (She’s So Heavy)” and Led Zeppelin’s “Since I’ve Been Loving You” showcase the flowing, swinging rhythm of 12/8. It’s great for creating a soulful, laid-back groove.

Conclusion

Experimenting with these underrated time signatures can add depth, complexity, and originality to your music.

Whether you're looking to create a sense of unease with 5/4, craft intricate rhythms with 11/8, or add a rolling groove with 12/8, exploring these less common time signatures can open up new creative avenues.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match, or even invent your own time signatures, to truly make your compositions stand out.