How to Play Guitar Like Kirk Hammett

So, you want to play guitar like Kirk Hammett? You're not alone. Many guitarists are drawn to his iconic style—those blistering solos, intricate riffs, and a knack for melody that makes Metallica's music so memorable. But what makes Kirk's playing so distinctive, and how can you incorporate his techniques into your own playing? Let's break down the essentials of Hammett's style, from his influences to his gear, and most importantly, his unique approach to the guitar.

Decoding Kirk's Influences

If you want to understand Kirk Hammett's playing, you need to know where he came from. His influences are a blend of classic rock, blues, and early metal. Kirk has often cited guitar legends like Jimi Hendrix, Michael Schenker, and Uli Jon Roth as major influences. These players have all left their mark on Kirk's style, each contributing to the way he approaches phrasing, melody, and speed.

Interestingly, Kirk's love for horror movies and their soundtracks also plays a role in his musical approach. The eerie atmospheres and dramatic tension found in these films can be heard in the darker, more brooding elements of his solos. By combining these influences, Kirk has developed a voice that's both versatile and instantly recognizable.

To channel these influences in your own playing, spend some time immersing yourself in the music of Kirk's heroes. Learn a few Hendrix riffs, dive into the melodic phrasing of Schenker, and experiment with the dramatic, almost cinematic qualities found in horror film scores. You'll begin to notice how these elements can shape your own musical expression.

Mastering the Wah Pedal

When you think of Kirk Hammett, the wah pedal is likely one of the first things that comes to mind. Kirk's use of the wah is more than just a gimmick—it's a tool that adds expressiveness and personality to his solos. To get a handle on this, you'll want to start by understanding basic wah pedal operation. But remember, it's not just about stomping on the pedal; it's about using it tastefully.

Start by playing a simple scale while rocking the pedal back and forth. Listen to how the wah affects the tone and dynamics of each note. Kirk's wah usage is often rhythmic, syncing up with the tempo and feel of the song. Practicing this way can help you internalize the wah as an extension of your expression, rather than just an effect.

For a deeper dive into this technique, you might want to check out lessons from seasoned metal guitarists. At Riffhard, we've got lessons that break down the nuances of using a wah pedal in metal solos, taught by some of the world's best metal guitarists.

Alternate Picking Precision

Another hallmark of Kirk Hammett's playing is his precise alternate picking. This technique allows for fast, clean note articulation, which is crucial for those rapid-fire licks and solos. Alternate picking involves using a strict down-up motion, which can be challenging to maintain consistently at high speeds.

To practice alternate picking, start with a metronome at a comfortable speed. Pick a simple pattern, like a chromatic scale, and focus on keeping your picking hand relaxed while maintaining a steady rhythm. As you get more comfortable, gradually increase the tempo. Remember, speed is nothing without accuracy, so prioritize clarity over velocity.

If you're struggling, don't fret—pun intended. Many guitarists, including Kirk, have spent countless hours perfecting this skill. For personalized guidance, consider taking lessons from accomplished metal guitarists who excel in this area. Our Riffhard instructors are experts at breaking down complex picking patterns into manageable exercises.

Understanding Hammett's Vibrato

Vibrato is like the fingerprint of a guitarist, and Kirk's is no exception. His vibrato is wide and expressive, adding depth to his lead lines. To emulate this, you'll need to develop control over your fretting hand. Start by isolating a single note and practice bending it up and down in a controlled manner. Listen to how the pitch wavers and aim for a smooth, even oscillation.

One trick to improving your vibrato is to think of it as a vocal technique. Imagine how a singer might hold a note, then add vibrato for emphasis. That same expressive quality is what you want to bring to your guitar playing. Try to match the intensity and speed of your vibrato to the emotion of the piece you're working on.

Developing a confident vibrato takes time, but it's worth the effort. Once you have it down, you'll notice a significant improvement in the expressiveness of your solos. And for more detailed instruction, our instructors at Riffhard can provide exercises tailored to refining your vibrato technique.

The Art of Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

Kirk Hammett's solos are filled with fluid, legato lines that add a sense of speed and fluidity. Mastering hammer-ons and pull-offs is essential to capturing this aspect of his playing. These techniques allow you to play notes smoothly without picking each one, creating a more connected sound.

Start by practicing simple hammer-ons and pull-offs on a single string. Focus on using enough finger pressure to produce a clear note without the assistance of your picking hand. Gradually introduce more complex patterns, like trills, or incorporate them into scales and arpeggios.

Once you're comfortable, try integrating these techniques into improvisation or soloing. The goal is to make them second nature, so they flow effortlessly in your playing. For more structured practice, consider following a lesson plan like "The Shredule" on Riffhard, where you can find exercises that systematically build your legato skills.

Constructing Melodic Solos

One of the things that sets Kirk Hammett apart is his ability to construct solos that are not only technically proficient but also highly melodic. His solos often tell a story, weaving through scales and modes to create memorable, singable lines.

To build your own melodic solos, start by familiarizing yourself with the major and minor scales. Understand how these scales fit over different chord progressions and practice improvising over backing tracks. Pay attention to how Kirk uses bends, slides, and vibrato to enhance the melody.

Another tip is to think about phrasing in terms of conversation. Each phrase in a solo should have a beginning, middle, and end, much like a sentence. Experiment with leaving space between phrases, allowing the music to breathe and creating a dialogue within your solo.

If you're looking for inspiration, consider taking a lesson from a guitarist who excels at melodic construction. At Riffhard, we offer lessons that focus on songwriting and soloing techniques, taught by musicians who have mastered the art of melody.

Exploring Modal Applications

Modal playing is a significant part of Kirk Hammett's style, allowing him to add color and variation to his solos. Modes are essentially scales derived from the major scale, each with its own unique flavor. Learning to apply modes can open up new avenues for creativity in your playing.

Start by learning the seven modes of the major scale: Ionian, Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, Mixolydian, Aeolian, and Locrian. Practice each mode over a drone note or backing track to get a feel for its unique sound. As you become more comfortable, try incorporating these modes into your improvisation.

Phrygian and Dorian are particularly popular in metal, offering a darker or more exotic sound. Kirk often uses these modes to add tension and drama to his solos. Experiment with these modes in your playing, and notice how they can shift the mood of your music.

For a deeper understanding of modal applications, our Riffhard lessons can guide you through the theory and practice of using modes effectively. With lessons from some of the best modern metal guitarists, you'll gain insights into how they apply modes in their own music.

The Importance of Dynamics

Finally, let's talk about dynamics. Kirk's playing isn't just about speed and technicality; it's also about knowing when to hold back and when to let loose. Dynamics are crucial in creating an engaging performance, adding contrast and interest to your music.

Start by practicing playing the same lick or riff at different volumes. Notice how the feel of the music changes with the intensity of your picking. Use dynamics to emphasize certain notes or phrases, creating a sense of ebb and flow in your playing.

Incorporating dynamics into your solos can make them more compelling and emotionally resonant. Remember, it's not just about playing loud or soft—it's about how you transition between those extremes and how you use them to tell a story.

For more tips on incorporating dynamics into your playing, our Riffhard instructors can offer personalized advice and exercises to help you develop this crucial skill.

Final Thoughts

Emulating Kirk Hammett's guitar style is about more than just copying his licks; it's about understanding the techniques and influences that make his playing unique. By focusing on these elements, you can start to incorporate them into your own style and develop your voice as a guitarist. And if you're looking for more guidance, Riffhard offers a wealth of resources from top metal guitarists to help you on your journey. Keep practicing, stay inspired, and enjoy the process of becoming the guitarist you aspire to be.