How to Play Guitar Licks

Guitar licks are more than just notes on a fretboard—they’re the signature phrases that give your playing personality and flair. Whether you're a budding shredder or a seasoned riff-master, learning how to play guitar licks can take your playing to new heights. So what exactly are guitar licks, and how can you get them under your fingers? Let's break it down.

Understanding What Makes a Lick

A guitar lick is a short, musical phrase, often used in solos or as part of a riff. Think of them as the building blocks of a solo. They can be melodic, technical, or a mix of both, and they're a great way to inject your personality into your playing. Licks often embody the essence of the subgenre you're playing—be it the aggressive chugging of thrash metal, the intricate patterns of progressive metal, or the dissonant sounds of black metal.

What's fascinating about licks is their versatility. You can take a simple lick and modify it to fit different parts of a song. Change the key, alter the rhythm, or add some effects, and you've got a brand new phrase. This adaptability makes licks an essential tool for any guitarist.

Picking the Right Tools: Gear and Setup

Before diving into playing licks, let's talk gear. While you don't need the most expensive equipment to sound good, having the right setup can make a big difference. Here’s what you might consider:

• Guitar: Your choice of guitar will largely depend on the style of metal you’re playing. For heavier genres, a guitar with humbuckers can give you the thick, powerful sound you need.
• Amp: A good amp with a solid distortion channel is crucial. Whether you're using a tube amp or a digital modeler, make sure it can handle the gain without getting too muddy.
• Effects: While not always necessary, effects like reverb, delay, and overdrive can add layers to your licks.

If you're looking for lessons that cover gear setup and tones, check out Riffhard. We have insights from some of the best metal guitarists on perfecting your sound.

Developing Your Picking Technique

Your picking hand is crucial when it comes to executing licks with precision and speed. There are several techniques to consider:

• Alternate Picking: This technique involves alternating between downstrokes and upstrokes. It’s essential for fast, clean playing.
• Economy Picking: Similar to alternate picking but more efficient, this technique minimizes movement by combining alternate picking with sweep picking.
• Downpicking: Often used in thrash metal, downpicking gives a powerful, aggressive attack but can be tiring at high speeds.

Practicing each of these techniques with a metronome can significantly improve your precision and timing. At Riffhard, we offer video lessons specifically focused on picking techniques, complete with downloadable tabs.

Mastering the Art of Phrasing

Phrasing is what makes a lick memorable. It’s how you express the notes and bring them to life. Here are some tips to enhance your phrasing:

• Bends: Bending a note adds expression and can mimic the human voice. Practice hitting the target pitch accurately.
• Vibrato: Adding vibrato to a note can make it sing. Experiment with different speeds and widths to find what suits the lick best.
• Slides: Sliding into or out of a note can add fluidity and smooth transitions between notes.

Listen to your favorite guitarists and pay attention to their phrasing. Try to mimic their style and then incorporate your own twists. Remember, it’s these subtleties that can transform a good lick into a great one.

Building Speed Without Losing Clarity

Speed can be exhilarating, but it’s important not to sacrifice clarity for velocity. Here’s how you can work on your speed:

• Start Slow: It might sound counterintuitive, but starting slow allows you to focus on accuracy. Gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable.
• Use a Metronome: This will help you stay in time and track your progress. Incrementally raise the BPM as you improve.
• Focus on Efficiency: Make sure your movements are as efficient as possible. The less wasted motion, the faster you can play.

For those looking to take their speed to the next level, Riffhard offers lessons from guitarists known for their incredible speed and precision.

Creating Your Own Licks

Once you've got the basics down, why not try creating your own licks? Here’s a process to help you get started:

• Start with a Scale: Choose a scale that fits the mood you want to convey. Pentatonic and blues scales are great for rock and metal.
• Experiment with Rhythms: Play around with different rhythms and see how they change the feel of the lick.
• Incorporate Techniques: Use techniques like tapping, legato, or slides to add complexity and texture.

Remember, there are no rules when it comes to creating music. If it sounds good to you, it probably is. And if you need inspiration, our lessons at Riffhard include tips from top metal guitarists on writing unique and compelling licks.

How to Practice Effectively

Effective practice is key to mastering guitar licks. Here are some strategies to consider:

• Set Realistic Goals: Break down your practice sessions into manageable sections. Focus on one aspect at a time, like picking technique or phrasing.
• Record Yourself: Listening back to your practice sessions can provide insights into areas that need improvement.
• Stay Consistent: Regular practice is more effective than cramming. Even short, daily sessions can lead to significant progress over time.

For structured practice routines, check out the Shredule on Riffhard, where we offer curated lesson plans to keep your practice focused and efficient.

Incorporating Licks into Your Playing

Once you've learned some licks, the next step is to incorporate them into your playing seamlessly. Here’s how:

• Analyze Songs: Listen to songs you love and identify where licks are used. Try playing along and substituting your own licks.
• Jam Along: Play along with backing tracks or jam with friends to practice using licks in a live setting.
• Stay Flexible: Don’t be afraid to modify licks to fit the context. Adjust the rhythm, key, or techniques as needed.

Incorporating licks into your playing will become more intuitive the more you practice. It's about finding your voice and letting it shine through your instrument.

Final Thoughts

Guitar licks are a powerful way to express yourself and add color to your playing. With practice and creativity, you can develop a unique style that sets you apart. If you're looking for guidance, Riffhard offers insights from some of the best metal guitarists to help you refine your skills and inspire your musical journey.