A vamp is a rhythmic, harmonically simple, repeating phrase, usually two or four bars in length, that establishes both a solid groove and a clear sense of tonality.
A good vamp typical performs one of three musical functions…
- An introduction to a song that builds anticipation and sets the tone for what is to come.
- An interlude within a song that transitions from one section of music to the next.
- A well-defined harmonic and rhythmic background for improvisation.
Example #1 (Frank playing a Gospel Vamp)…
Example #2 (Frank playing the vamp from Dave Brubeck’s “Take Five”)…