Sometimes called a "ghost note", is a soft/light tap, almost imperceptible to the ear. The drumstick height used when performing these strokes should be 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch above the surface; the closer to the drumhead the better. A ghost stroke is used to color rhythmic patterns within a groove of fill.

Typically, when performing Ghost Strokes within a groove, such as the right hand on the HiHat and left hand on the Snare drum, the performer will want the ghosted notes to be softer than any notes played on the HiHat. Failing to do this will make the ghost strokes sound more like tap strokes ... and they won't blend properly within the groove being played.