From the number and variety of responses, James, I'd say you struck a common chord in among composers, here. Permit me to add my two cents.
Billy Joel said, "If it doesn't have the two/four, it isn't rock." He referred to the 4/4 meter with emphasis on the two and the four.
The attached song is a good example. Count along the
one-TWO-three-FOUR until it becomes effortless. Make up your own backup vocal. Little by little, add your own lyrics and melody. Nothing to lose, really.
(my - BAY - bee - TAKES / the - MORE - ning - TRAIN.)
(Morning Train by Sheena Easton)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oonmD7n_rHU