How to Fingerstyle an Electric Guitar

Fingerstyle on an electric guitar might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of shredding through metal riffs, but it's a technique worth mastering. The versatility it adds to your playing is like adding a new color to your musical palette. By the end of this article, you'll have some solid skills to experiment with fingerstyle on the electric guitar, blending it seamlessly into your metal or any other genre you're passionate about.

Why Fingerstyle on Electric Guitar?

So, why should you bother with fingerstyle on an electric guitar? Well, the answer lies in the sheer versatility and expression this technique offers. While traditional plectrum playing is great for speed and aggression, fingerstyle lets you explore dynamic range and intricate textures that a pick simply can't match. It's not just for acoustic guitarists; electric players can harness this skill to add depth and nuance to their sound.

Fingerstyle offers a unique way to articulate each note, giving you control over the tone and attack. This is particularly useful in metal subgenres where precision and clarity are crucial. You can also use fingerstyle to create polyphonic textures, playing rhythm and melody simultaneously. This opens up a whole new world of possibilities, whether you're composing a haunting intro or adding subtle layers to a heavy riff.

Getting Comfortable with Fingerstyle

The first step in fingerstyle is getting comfortable with using your fingers instead of a pick. This might feel awkward at first, especially if you're used to gripping a plectrum like it's your lifeline. Start by resting your thumb on the low E string and letting your fingers naturally curl over the other strings. Your thumb will handle the bass lines, while your index, middle, and ring fingers focus on the higher strings.

Practice playing simple patterns using this new setup. A good exercise is to alternate between your thumb and fingers, plucking a bass note followed by a chord or melody line. Keep your movements relaxed and fluid, letting your fingers glide over the strings. It might take some time to build up strength and independence in your fingers, but persistence pays off.

Developing Finger Independence

Finger independence is crucial for fingerstyle playing. Each finger should be able to move freely, without relying on the others. This independence allows you to play complex patterns and switch between strings with ease. A great exercise is to practice scales or arpeggios using your fingers instead of a pick. This not only builds finger strength but also helps you internalize the fretboard.

Try a simple open-string pattern to start with. Pluck the low E string with your thumb, followed by the A, D, and G strings with your index, middle, and ring fingers. Repeat this pattern slowly, focusing on evenness and clarity. Gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable. You'll soon notice your fingers moving more independently and confidently across the strings.

Incorporating Dynamics and Articulation

One of the biggest advantages of fingerstyle is the ability to control dynamics and articulation. With a pick, you're limited to the attack and volume you get from striking the strings. But with your fingers, you can vary the pressure and angle to create a wide range of sounds. Experiment with different techniques like plucking softly for a gentle tone or using your nails for a sharper attack.

Try adding accents to certain notes in a pattern, emphasizing them with a stronger pluck. This adds a rhythmic pulse and keeps your playing interesting. You can also experiment with techniques like palm muting or harmonics to add texture and color. The key is to play around and find what sounds best to you.

Using Riffhard for Dynamic Control

Speaking of dynamics, our Riffhard lessons delve into the subtleties of dynamic control. With instructors like Zakk Wylde and Aaron Marshall, you'll learn how to use fingerstyle to create impactful, dynamic metal riffs. Their lessons cover everything from basic fingerstyle techniques to advanced articulation, all tailored to the electric guitar.

Creating Polyphonic Textures

One of the coolest things about fingerstyle is the ability to play multiple voices simultaneously. This is where you can really get creative and start building complex, layered sounds. A great way to practice this is by playing simple chord melodies, using your thumb for the bass notes and your fingers for the melody.

Start with a basic chord progression and try adding a melody line on top. You can also experiment with different voicings and inversions to add interest. The goal is to create a full, rich sound that combines rhythm and melody in one seamless performance.

Integrating Fingerstyle into Metal

Now that you've got the basics down, it's time to integrate fingerstyle into your metal playing. This might seem like a challenge, especially with the fast tempos and aggressive tones associated with the genre. But with practice, you can blend fingerstyle techniques into your riffs and solos, adding complexity and nuance to your sound.

Start by incorporating fingerstyle into slower sections or interludes, where you have more space to experiment. You can also use fingerstyle to create intricate intros or breakdowns, adding a new dimension to your compositions. The key is to find a balance between the aggression of metal and the subtlety of fingerstyle, crafting a sound that's uniquely yours.

Practicing with Riffhard's Metronome

Consistency and timing are crucial when developing any new technique, and fingerstyle is no exception. Our custom metronome at Riffhard is designed specifically for guitar practice, helping you nail those tricky rhythms and keep your playing tight. Use it to practice fingerstyle patterns at different tempos, gradually increasing speed as you become more comfortable.

The interactive player also lets you adjust the tempo of our video lessons, so you can practice fingerstyle techniques at your own pace. Whether you're working on a complex pattern or refining your dynamic control, our tools make the process smoother and more efficient.

The Influence of Modern Metal Guitarists

It's worth noting that many modern metal guitarists incorporate fingerstyle into their playing, adding another layer to their sound. Guitarists like Javier Reyes of Animals as Leaders and Dean Lamb of Archspire are known for their innovative use of fingerstyle techniques, pushing the boundaries of what's possible on electric guitar.

By studying their techniques and incorporating them into your own playing, you can expand your musical vocabulary and develop a unique style. At Riffhard, we offer lessons from these top-tier guitarists, giving you direct access to their insights and methods. It's an invaluable resource for anyone looking to explore fingerstyle on the electric guitar.

Experimenting with Effects and Amplification

Finally, don't forget to experiment with effects and amplification when playing fingerstyle on electric guitar. Effects like reverb, delay, and chorus can add depth and atmosphere to your sound, while distortion or overdrive can give your fingerstyle playing a bit of edge. Try different combinations and see what works best for you.

Your amp settings also play a crucial role in shaping your tone. Experiment with different EQ settings and gain levels to find the sweet spot for your fingerstyle playing. The goal is to create a balanced sound that highlights the nuances of fingerstyle while maintaining the power and aggression of electric guitar.

Final Thoughts

Fingerstyle on an electric guitar opens up a world of possibilities, adding depth and expression to your playing. With practice and experimentation, you can integrate this technique into your metal riffs and solos, creating a sound that's uniquely yours. And if you're looking for guidance, our Riffhard lessons offer invaluable insights from some of the world's best metal guitarists. Dive in and explore the endless potential of fingerstyle on the electric guitar.