Re: Syncopation

syncopation- to put the accents on something other than the usual downbeat. 

I guess swing is kind of a good example.  It's putting emphasis on the "and's" of beats or in other words, the up beats.  The downbeat is the one.  The upbeat is the "and".  Mixing the accents, switching b/t the ups and downs it what makes music interesting and FUNKY.  Syncopation can be found in all genres.  If your having problems try the counting thing and also try listening to something funky and try to emulate it.  Hope that helps.