How to Play Guitar Behind Your Back

Playing the guitar behind your back is a party trick turned rockstar spectacle. Sure, it might look more like a gimmick than a technique, but executing it well is no small feat. It’s not just about throwing the guitar over your shoulder and hoping for the best; it requires skill, precision, and a touch of bravado. If you’re ready to add this flashy move to your guitar-playing repertoire, let’s break it down into some manageable pieces.

Getting Comfortable with Your Instrument

Before you even think about swinging that guitar around, it’s crucial to be comfortable with your instrument. This might sound obvious, but many players skip right to the flashy stuff. You should know your guitar like the back of your hand, or in this case, the back of your shoulder.

Start by playing your guitar normally, standing up, and using a strap. Practice simple scales and chords until you can play them without looking. This level of familiarity is essential because, once the guitar is behind you, seeing what you’re playing becomes a bit of a challenge.

• Practice standing up regularly to get used to the weight and balance of your guitar.
• Use a strap that feels secure, as you don’t want your guitar slipping during the move.
• Work on muscle memory with simple progressions; this will help when your visual cues are limited.

Interestingly enough, once you’re confident with your instrument, you’ll find the transition to playing behind your back a little less daunting.

Strengthening Your Core and Shoulders

It might surprise you to hear that playing guitar behind your back is a bit of a workout. This move requires not just dexterity but also some physical strength, especially in your core and shoulders.

Your shoulders will bear much of the guitar’s weight, and your core will help keep you balanced. Incorporating some basic exercises into your routine can be beneficial.

• Shoulder presses and lateral raises will help build the strength needed to support the guitar.
• Planks can enhance your core stability, which is crucial for maintaining good posture while playing.
• Stretching before and after practice sessions can prevent any strain or injury.

While it’s hard to say for sure, it seems that a stronger body leads to a more confident performance, especially when you’re trying something as demanding as this.

Choosing the Right Guitar

Not every guitar is ideal for playing behind your back. A heavy Les Paul might not be the best choice unless you have the physique of a bodybuilder. On the other hand, a lightweight Stratocaster or an Ibanez is often more manageable.

Consider the following when choosing a guitar for this trick:

• Weight: Opt for a lighter guitar to reduce strain on your shoulder and back.
• Strap Locks: Ensure your guitar strap has locks. The last thing you want is your guitar crashing to the floor mid-performance.
• Shape: A guitar with a contoured body can sit more comfortably against your back, making the entire process smoother.

Using a guitar that feels right for this move can make a significant difference. Choosing one that complements your playing style and physical capabilities is crucial.

Developing the Technique

Now, onto the fun part—getting that guitar behind your back and making it sing. This is where things get a little tricky, but with practice, it becomes second nature. Here’s a step-by-step approach to mastering this move:

Step 1: The Swing

Gently swing the guitar over your shoulder. Use your right hand to guide the neck while your left hand supports the body. This motion should be smooth, not forceful, to prevent any accidental damage to your guitar or yourself.

Step 2: Adjust Your Stance

Once the guitar is in place, adjust your stance. You might need to widen your feet to maintain balance. Your core muscles will engage to keep you steady.

Step 3: Find the Strings

This is where muscle memory plays a huge role. Since you can’t see the strings, rely on your sense of touch to find the right frets and strings. Start by playing simple power chords or scales until you feel more confident.

Practicing this part slowly ensures you build the necessary accuracy and confidence to perform without a hitch.

Practicing with Purpose

Like any guitar technique, practicing with intent and focus is key. Randomly noodling around won’t cut it if you want to play behind your back convincingly.

• Set aside specific practice sessions dedicated to this move.
• Use a metronome to keep your timing tight, especially when you’re working on adding this to a song.
• Record yourself to analyze your posture and technique. This feedback can be invaluable in making adjustments.

At Riffhard, we emphasize practicing with a purpose. Many of our lessons encourage structured practice routines that you can apply to this new skill.

Incorporating the Move into Your Performance

Once you’re comfortable playing behind your back in practice, it’s time to bring it to the stage—or at least the next jam session. Timing is everything. Know when to pull this move out of your bag of tricks for maximum effect.

Consider these tips:

• Choose a section of a song where the chords or riffs are simple enough to play without visual cues.
• Use this move sparingly. It’s a showstopper, not something to overdo.
• Practice in front of a mirror to perfect your stage presence and ensure you look as confident as you feel.

When you’re ready to take it live, remember that the goal is to entertain. Confidence in your execution will translate to the audience and make your performance memorable.

Learning from the Pros

Watching professional guitarists who have mastered this trick can be incredibly instructive. From Jimi Hendrix to Angus Young, many legendary players have wowed audiences with this move. Analyze their performances and see what you can learn.

Note their posture, the way they swing their guitar, and how they incorporate it into their performance smoothly. While it’s hard to replicate the charisma of these rock legends, you can certainly learn a thing or two about technique and stage presence.

We at Riffhard feature lessons from some of the world’s best modern metal guitarists, who share insights not just on technical skills but also on performance tricks like this one.

Dealing with Challenges

Playing guitar behind your back isn’t without its challenges. From physical strain to potential technical mishaps, there are a few hurdles you might encounter.

Here’s how to navigate common issues:

• Physical Strain: Make sure to stretch and strengthen your muscles to prevent injury.
• Technical Issues: Regularly check your strap and locks to avoid any unwanted surprises during your performance.
• Accuracy: If you miss a note or chord, don’t panic. Practice until you can hit the right notes consistently without looking.

Patience and perseverance are your best friends here. Every guitarist faces challenges, but overcoming them is part of the journey.

Staying Safe

Safety might not be the first thing on your mind when you’re trying to pull off a rockstar move, but it definitely deserves your attention. Here are a few aspects to consider:

• Protect Your Back: Avoid overdoing it if you feel any discomfort.
• Ensure Stability: Check your guitar strap and locks periodically.
• Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: Ensure you have enough space to swing your guitar without knocking into anything or anyone.

While it’s tempting to dive headfirst into this flashy move, taking precautions ensures you keep rocking without any setbacks.

Final Thoughts

Playing guitar behind your back is a thrilling addition to any guitarist’s skill set. It combines showmanship with technical skill, offering a unique way to engage your audience. At Riffhard, we love helping guitarists push their limits and discover new ways to express themselves. Remember, practice with purpose, keep it safe, and most importantly, have fun with it!