onbeat

Onbeat is a term used in music and rhythm to describe events that occur exactly on the primary pulse, or beat, of a piece in a given time signature. It is often contrasted with offbeat or syncopated positions, where notes fall between beats or on weaker subdivisions of the beat.

In Western notation, beats are counted within measures (for example, 1, 2, 3, 4 in common time). An onbeat note aligns with these numbered pulses, such as a quarter note on beat 1 or 2, 3, or 4. Offbeat events occur between beats or on subdivisions like the “and” in 4/4 time. Musicians aim to stay onbeat to maintain tempo and groove, frequently using a metronome or click track as a reference.

Onbeat patterns serve as a rhythmic foundation for many styles. They anchor the rhythm section, provide predictable timing for melodic and harmonic structures, and help performers synchronize with other players. Some genres, however, intentionally blend onbeat and offbeat accents to create swung feels, grooves, or syncopation.

In modern production, the concept is implemented through beat grids in digital audio workstations. Producers may quantize performances to onbeat positions for precision or deliberately offset notes to preserve human feel. Overall, onbeat timing is a fundamental aspect of rhythmic accuracy and musical cohesion. See also: downbeat, upbeat, backbeat, offbeat, syncopation, tempo, metronome.