How to Strum in 6/8 on the Guitar

Strumming in 6/8 time can open up a whole new world of rhythm and feel for guitarists, especially those exploring genres like progressive metal or even more symphonic metal styles. While it might seem tricky at first, it’s all about finding the groove in those six beats per measure. Let’s break down how you can get comfortable with this time signature and add it to your strumming toolkit.

Understanding the 6/8 Time Signature

Before we pick up the guitar, let’s talk a bit about what 6/8 time actually means. In simple terms, 6/8 consists of six beats in a measure, and the eighth note gets the beat. This gives the rhythm a waltz-like or triplet feel, which is quite different from the more common 4/4 time signature. It’s essential to internalize this rhythm before driving into strumming patterns.

Think of 6/8 as two groups of three beats. Tap your foot and count: one-two-three-four-five-six, with a slight emphasis on the first and fourth beats. This emphasis gives it that distinctive rolling feel that makes 6/8 so dynamic and expressive.

Why Use 6/8 in Metal?

Metal isn’t just about speed and aggression; it’s also about texture and mood. The 6/8 time signature can add an epic, almost cinematic quality to your music. It allows for expansive, flowing riffs that can build tension and release in a way that standard time signatures don’t quite capture. Bands like Dream Theater and Opeth often use 6/8 to create those sweeping, atmospheric passages that set them apart.

Getting Comfortable with the Count

Start by counting out loud or tapping along with your foot. It might feel a bit strange if you’re used to 4/4, but stick with it. Try clapping along to songs you know are in 6/8, or even better, play along with a metronome set to 6/8. This will help you get the feel under your fingers before you start strumming.

Basic Strumming Patterns for 6/8

Once you’ve got a feel for the rhythm, it’s time to start strumming. The simplest strumming pattern in 6/8 would be a downstroke on each beat. This will help you lock in with the pulse of the time signature.

D - D - D - D - D - D
1   2   3   4   5   6

Notice the accent on the first beat of each set of three. This is crucial to maintaining the 6/8 feel. Once you’re comfortable with this, you can start to add some variety.

Adding Upstrokes

Introducing upstrokes can add some flavor to your strumming. A very common pattern is:

D - U - D - D - U - D
1   2   3   4   5   6

This pattern has a nice flow and works great for ballads or slower sections in metal songs. Again, focus on keeping that first beat of each triplet group slightly louder or more pronounced.

Advanced Strumming Techniques

As you get more comfortable, you can begin to incorporate syncopation and dynamic changes. This is where 6/8 can really shine, allowing for complex rhythms and mood shifts.

Syncopated Patterns

Syncopation involves placing emphasis on beats that aren’t typically strong. Here’s an example:

D - - U - D - U - D -
1   2   3   4   5   6

This pattern skips some beats, which can create a more rhythmic texture. It might be tricky at first, but it can add a lot of depth to your playing.

Dynamic Strumming

Don’t just focus on changing strumming patterns; think about dynamics too. Try playing some parts more softly and others more aggressively to create contrast. This can be particularly effective in metal, where you might want to build tension in a verse before exploding into a chorus.

Incorporating Palm Muting

Palm muting is a staple in metal guitar playing, and it can be applied to 6/8 strumming as well. By resting the edge of your palm lightly on the strings near the bridge, you can dampen the sound and create a chugging effect.

Muted Patterns

Here’s a pattern that combines palm muting and open strums:

PM   PM  PM  D  PM  D 
D - D - D - D - D - D
1   2   3   4   5   6

The muted strokes give a percussive quality, while the open strokes add brightness. Adjust the tightness of your palm muting to control the level of damping.

Exploring Rhythmic Variations

Once you have a few basic patterns down, start experimenting with variations. Change the order of downstrokes and upstrokes, or mix in muted and open strokes to create your own patterns.

Creating Your Own Patterns

One approach is to take a simple pattern and make subtle changes to it:

D - U - D - U - D - U
1   2   3   4   5   6

Then try:

D - - U - D - U - D -
1   2   3   4   5   6

These small changes can lead to entirely new feels and grooves. Remember, the goal is to serve the music, not just play complex patterns for their own sake.

Integrating 6/8 into Your Playing

Now that you’re familiar with some patterns, try integrating 6/8 into your regular practice. Use it in songwriting, jamming, or even improvisation. The more you use it, the more natural it will become.

Applying 6/8 to Songwriting

6/8 can be a powerful tool for songwriting. It’s perfect for creating tension and release, or for adding a unique twist to a song. Try writing a riff or chord progression in 6/8 and see where it takes you.

Learning from the Pros

Check out some songs by bands that use 6/8 effectively. Listen closely to how they use the time signature to enhance their music. This can give you ideas for your own playing.

Examples from Metal Bands

Bands like Mastodon and Tool have numerous songs in 6/8. Listen to tracks like “The Last Baron” or “Lateralus” to hear how they create epic soundscapes with this time signature.

Using Riffhard to Enhance Your Skills

Speaking of learning, if you’re looking to dive deeper into metal guitar techniques, Riffhard is a fantastic resource. With lessons from some of the best metal guitarists out there, you can improve your strumming, riffing, and overall technique significantly.

Practicing with a Metronome or Backing Tracks

Practicing with a metronome is crucial for mastering 6/8. Set the click to emphasize every first and fourth beat to help you lock into the groove. Alternatively, use backing tracks in 6/8 to apply what you’ve learned in a musical context.

Using Technology to Your Advantage

There are many apps and online tools that offer metronomes and backing tracks. Use these to practice your 6/8 strumming and really hone in on your timing and feel.

Tips for Staying Motivated

Learning a new time signature can be challenging, but it’s important to stay motivated. Set small goals, like mastering a particular strumming pattern or writing a short riff in 6/8. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small.

Join Online Communities

Engage with other guitarists who are also learning. Share your progress, ask for feedback, and be open to new ideas. Communities can provide support and encouragement that keep you going.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Strumming in 6/8 can present challenges, especially if you’re used to more straightforward time signatures. Here are a few common issues and how to tackle them.

Maintaining the Groove

It’s easy to lose the groove, especially when things get complex. Focus on feeling the pulse and practice regularly with a metronome to internalize the rhythm.

Keeping the Dynamics

Don’t get caught up in the mechanics and forget about dynamics. Make sure your strumming is expressive, and adjust your volume and attack to suit the music.

Final Thoughts

Mastering 6/8 strumming can add a unique and versatile component to your guitar playing, especially in metal. It offers a fresh rhythmic perspective that can breathe life into your music. If you’re keen on further honing your skills, Riffhard offers lessons from top metal guitarists to help you dive deeper into these techniques. Happy strumming!