clavé
The foundational rhythmic pattern in Afro-Cuban music, played on claves.
In Depth
The clave (not to be confused with claves, the instrument) is a five-note rhythmic pattern that serves as the organising principle of Afro-Cuban music. Everything in the ensemble — melody, harmony, bass, percussion — relates to the clave pattern. There are two main types: son clave (3-2 or 2-3) and rumba clave, each with a different rhythmic feel. The 3-2 and 2-3 designation refers to the grouping of the five notes across two bars: three strokes in the first bar and two in the second (3-2), or the reverse (2-3). Playing against the clave — accenting in ways that conflict with the pattern — is considered a fundamental error. The clave has influenced jazz, funk, and pop music worldwide.
The [clave pattern](/term/clave%20pattern) can be found embedded in hit songs across genres — from Bo Diddley's beat to Stevie Wonder's Superstition. Its influence extends far beyond Latin music.