What Is a Rhythm Section?

The Rhythm Section, artwork by Suzanne Cerny

A rhythm section is a core group of instruments within an ensemble that together play a  groove/accompaniment under a lead instrument or vocalist. Most commonly, particularly in contemporary groove-based popular music since the 1950s, these roles are the drumbeat, bass, and a chord comping parts, fulfilled by a drum set, electric bass, and guitar and/or piano/keyboard. (Some writers only include bass and drums in the rhythm section, particularly in rock "power trio" contexts.) Together, the players of these parts define the music’s characteristic metric, rhythmic, and harmonic components, which evokes and defines the style and unique character of the song or composition.

The exact instruments that constitute a rhythm section vary depending on the style and era. For example, 1940s jazz rhythm sections tended to have a small drum set, upright bass, and piano. A contemporary Afro-Cuban jazz rhythm section will likely include hand percussion in addition to the drum set. An electronica or other dance style rhythm section will typically have a drum machine, MIDI loops, or other electronic source of drumbeat sounds and electronic synths for bass and chords—possibly no acoustic instruments at all.