Fingerpicking Patterns in Classic Country Songs

As country music continues to be one of the most popular genres in America, it’s no surprise that many aspiring musicians want to learn to play classic country songs on guitar. And while there are many techniques to master when it comes to playing guitar in general, fingerpicking is one of the most important skills to develop for guitarists looking to play classic country songs. However, breaking down fingerpicking patterns in classic country songs can seem like a daunting task for beginners. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common fingerpicking techniques used in classic country songs and break down the fingerpicking patterns used in some of the most popular songs in the genre. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced guitarist, this guide will help you master fingerpicking and take your classic country guitar playing to the next level.

Fingerpicking Techniques Used in Classic Country Songs

When it comes to classic country music, fingerpicking is a fundamental technique that defines the genre’s sound. Many of the most famous country songs are built around intricate fingerpicking patterns that highlight the musical storytelling of the lyrics. From Travis picking to boom-chick picking, these techniques have become the backbone of the genre’s sound. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common fingerpicking patterns used in classic country songs. But before we dive in, if you want to learn more about the history of fingerpicking in country music, check out our article on the topic.

Travis picking

Travis picking is a fingerpicking technique that is commonly used in classic country songs. This technique involves alternating between the bass note and the higher strings of the guitar. It was popularized by country guitarist Merle Travis and is often used in songs such as “Sixteen Tons” and “Cannonball Rag”.

To do Travis picking, the thumb is used to pick the lower three strings while the index, middle and ring finger pick the higher treble strings. One of the advantages of Travis picking is that it allows the guitar player to play both the melody and the bassline simultaneously. This produces a full and rich sound that is common in classic country songs.

Here’s an example of how Travis picking can be used in a classic country song:

In the example above, the thumb picks the root note (bass note) of each chord while the index, middle and ring finger play the higher strings. This pattern repeats for each chord in the song. You can practice this pattern by using the exercises provided in our fingerpicking exercises for country guitarists article.

Travis picking is just one of the many fingerpicking techniques used in classic country songs. To learn more about other techniques, check out our guide to fingerpicking techniques in country songs. Additionally, you can find tips on how to train your fingers for speed and accuracy in our article: Train Your Fingers for Speed and Accuracy.

Carter picking

Carter picking is another common fingerpicking technique used in classic country music. It was popularized by Maybelle Carter of the Carter Family, one of the earliest and most influential country music groups.

Carter picking is a versatile technique that involves playing both the melody and the accompaniment on the guitar simultaneously. It’s often used in slower songs and ballads, but can be adapted to faster songs as well.

To play Carter picking, the thumb plays the root note of the chord while the fingers play the melody notes. This creates a steady bass line while allowing the melody to stand out. Here’s a basic example using a C chord:

In this example, the thumb plays the root note, C, while the index and middle fingers play the notes E and C, respectively. The ring finger plays the high G note on the third fret of the high E string.

Carter picking can be seen in many classic country songs, including “Wildwood Flower” by the Carter Family and “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” by A.P. Carter. It remains a popular technique to this day and is used by many contemporary country guitarists.

To learn more about fingerpicking in country music, check out our article on fingerpicking in country music. For tips on mastering country fingerpicking, take a look at our article on famous country guitarists’ fingerpicking secrets.

Merle Travis picking

Merle Travis picking is a fingerpicking style developed by the legendary guitarist Merle Travis in the 1940s. It is characterized by its use of the thumb to play a steady bass line while the fingers pluck the melody and harmony notes. This technique is also known as thumbpicking.

To play Merle Travis picking, start by placing your thumb on the bass string of the chord you are playing. In most cases, this will be the sixth string (low E string) for open position chords. Then, use the index, middle, and ring fingers to pick the melody and harmony notes on the higher strings.

One of the most famous examples of Merle Travis picking is the song “Sixteen Tons.” The song, written by Merle Travis himself, features a driving bassline played with the thumb, while the fingers play the melody and chordal accompaniment. It’s a great example of how the technique can give a song a unique, rhythmic feel that is perfect for country music.

Another great example of Merle Travis picking is in the song “I Am a Pilgrim.” The song, which has been covered by many artists, including Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson, features alternating bass notes and melody lines played with the thumb and fingers.

Merle Travis picking is a challenging technique to master, but it is well worth the effort for any fingerstyle guitarist interested in playing classic country music. It provides a distinctive sound that is perfect for songs with a strong rhythm and melody. To learn more about the pros and cons of fingerstyle and flatpicking for country music, check out our article on Fingerstyle vs. Flatpicking: Pros and Cons for Country Music. For more information on country fingerpicking, check out our article on ACR Country Fingerpicking. Additionally, our Country Chords for Fingerpicking article can help you learn the common chord progressions used in country music and how to apply Merle Travis picking to them.

Boom-chick picking

One fingerpicking technique that is commonly used in classic country songs is the boom-chick picking technique. This technique involves playing a bass note followed by strumming or arpeggiating the chord, creating a rhythmic “boom-chick” sound.

To break it down further, the bass note is typically played with the thumb on the lower strings, while the treble strings are played with the rest of the fingers. The bass note is usually played on the first and third beats of a measure, while the chord is played on the second and fourth beats.

This technique can be heard in classic country songs such as “Hey Good Lookin'” by Hank Williams and “Act Naturally” by Buck Owens. The boom-chick pattern creates a lively, upbeat rhythm that is perfect for dancing and singing along to.

Learning the boom-chick picking technique can take some practice, but it’s definitely worth it for any aspiring country guitarist. One tip for practicing this technique is to start slow and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable with it.

Another tip is to experiment with different chord progressions and melodies to create your own unique sound. Don’t be afraid to try new things and push yourself out of your comfort zone.

Ultimately, incorporating the boom-chick picking technique into your playing will add a dynamic element to your music and make you sound like a true country pro. So grab your guitar, practice your boom-chick patterns, and get ready to rock the honky-tonks!

Breaking Down Fingerpicking Patterns in Classic Country Songs

Now that we’ve covered the various fingerpicking techniques used in classic country songs, let’s dive into breaking down some popular tracks that utilize these techniques. From the storytelling of Marty Robbins to the iconic sound of Johnny Cash, classic country songs offer a wealth of fingerpicking patterns to learn from. So grab your guitar and get ready to explore the intricate and captivating world of classic country fingerstyle guitar. We’ll be delving into the following songs: “El Paso” by Marty Robbins, “Folsom Prison Blues” by Johnny Cash, “Make the World Go Away” by Eddy Arnold, and “The Boxer” by Simon & Garfunkel (covered by Emmylou Harris). Get ready to learn how to incorporate these fingerpicking patterns into your own playing.

El Paso by Marty Robbins

One of the most iconic classic country ballads that features fingerpicking is “El Paso” by Marty Robbins. The song tells a tragic tale of a cowboy who falls in love with a woman named Felina, but ultimately meets his demise trying to win her over. The fingerpicking pattern in this song is a combination of Travis picking and boom-chick picking.

The intro of the song starts with a single note picked on the 4th string with the thumb, followed by a pinch of the 4th and 2nd string with the thumb and index finger together. This is played twice before moving to the verse.

The verse pattern starts with a variation of Travis picking, using the thumb to pick the 6th string, followed by the index, middle, and ring fingers, picking the 3rd, 2nd, and 1st string respectively. This pattern is then broken up by a boom-chick, where the thumb picks the 5th string and the index and middle fingers play a pinch on the 2nd and 1st strings.

The chorus of the song features a more intricate pattern that incorporates both Travis and Carter picking. The pattern starts with the thumb picking the 6th string, followed by the index, middle, and ring fingers picking the 2nd, 1st, and 3rd strings respectively. This is then followed by a pinch on the 4th and 2nd strings, played with the thumb and middle finger. The pattern then repeats, but with a pinch on the 5th and 1st strings instead.

Here is a breakdown of the fingerpicking pattern used in “El Paso” by Marty Robbins:

Intro:

Verse:

Chorus:

Learning the fingerpicking patterns in classic country songs like “El Paso” may take some time and practice, but the end result is a satisfying sound that can transport you to a different time and place. Keep in mind that fingerpicking is an individual style and it’s okay to adjust and interpret the patterns in your own way.

Folsom Prison Blues by Johnny Cash

One of the most iconic fingerpicking patterns in classic country music can be found in “Folsom Prison Blues” by legendary singer and songwriter Johnny Cash. This song features a classic boom-chick pattern that is instantly recognizable and has been used in countless songs since its inception. Here’s a breakdown of the fingerpicking pattern used in “Folsom Prison Blues”:

1. Bass notes on the root and fifth: The song starts with a bass note on the root of the chord, which in this case is an E. This is followed by a bass note on the fifth of the chord, B. This pattern is repeated twice.

2. Alternating bass notes: The rest of the pattern involves alternating between the root and the fifth of the chord, while hitting the other strings with the fingers of the picking hand. In the case of “Folsom Prison Blues,” the chords used are E and A, so the picking pattern involves alternating between the notes E and B for the E chord, and A and E for the A chord.

3. Syncopated strumming: After playing the alternating bass notes for a bit, Cash switches things up by adding in a syncopated strumming pattern with the picking hand. This involves hitting some of the strings (usually the higher strings) with the index finger while simultaneously hitting the bass note with the thumb.

4. Repeat: The pattern repeats throughout the song, with variations in the syncopated strumming and occasional breaks for Cash to sing the lyrics.

Learning this fingerpicking pattern can be challenging for beginners, but it’s a great way to develop your fingerstyle technique and add some classic country flair to your playing. Some tips for learning this and other fingerpicking patterns include starting slow, practicing with a metronome, and breaking the pattern down into smaller parts before putting it all together. With dedication and practice, you’ll be playing “Folsom Prison Blues” and other classic country tunes in no time.

Make the World Go Away by Eddy Arnold

One of the most iconic fingerpicking patterns in classic country music can be found in Eddy Arnold’s “Make the World Go Away”. This song utilizes a combination of Travis picking and intricate chord changes to create a beautiful and captivating sound.

Below is a step-by-step breakdown of the fingerpicking pattern in “Make the World Go Away”:

• Step 1: Begin by playing an E chord with your thumb on the sixth string and your index and middle fingers on the second and first strings, respectively.
• Step 2: Next, use your thumb to play the fifth string and your middle finger to play the third string.
• Step 3: Move your thumb to the fourth string and use your index finger to play the second string.
• Step 4: Use your thumb to play the third string and your middle finger to play the first string.
• Step 5: Move your thumb back to the fourth string and use your index finger to play the second string.
• Step 6: Use your thumb to play the third string and your middle finger to play the first string again.
• Step 7: End the pattern with your thumb on the fourth string and your index finger on the second string.

This pattern is repeated throughout most of the song and is accompanied by chord changes that alternate between E and A. It may take some practice to get the fingerpicking pattern down, but once mastered it’s an incredibly rewarding technique to have in your repertoire.

In addition to the fingerpicking pattern, “Make the World Go Away” also utilizes some beautiful and complex chord changes. The chorus, for example, transitions between an E major 7, A minor 7, and E7 chord. These chord changes add to the emotional impact of the song and make it a joy to play and listen to.

Overall, “Make the World Go Away” is a great example of the versatility and beauty of fingerpicking in classic country music. With its intricate pattern and complex chord changes, it’s a challenging but rewarding song to learn and play.

The Boxer by Simon & Garfunkel (covered by Emmylou Harris)

One classic country song that showcases fingerpicking patterns is “The Boxer” by Simon & Garfunkel. This song was covered by Emmylou Harris in a country style and is a great example of how fingerpicking can be used in different genres.

Verse:
The verse of the song uses a basic Travis picking pattern, alternating between the bass note and the higher strings. The pattern starts off on the D chord, with the thumb playing the fourth string and the index and middle fingers alternating between the second and third strings.

1. Start with a D chord
2. Pluck the 4th string with your thumb
3. Pluck the 3rd string with your middle finger
4. Pluck the 2nd string with your index finger
5. Repeat steps 2-4

Chorus:
The chorus of the song switches to a boom-chick pattern, emphasizing the downbeat and the upbeat of each measure. This is achieved by playing the bass note on the downbeat and strumming the higher strings on the upbeat.

1. Start with a G chord
2. Pluck the 6th string with your thumb
3. Strum the higher strings with your index and middle fingers
4. Repeat steps 2-3
5. Switch to a D chord and repeat the pattern
6. Switch back to a G chord and repeat the pattern

Bridge:
The bridge of the song returns to a Travis picking pattern, but this time the thumb plays the fifth string instead of the fourth.

1. Start with a C chord
2. Pluck the 5th string with your thumb
3. Pluck the 3rd string with your middle finger
4. Pluck the 2nd string with your index finger
5. Repeat steps 2-4
6. Switch to an A minor chord and repeat the pattern

Learning how to play fingerpicking patterns takes practice and patience. Start off slow and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable with the patterns. Once you’ve mastered these classic fingerpicking patterns, you’ll be able to play a wide variety of songs in the country genre and beyond.

Tips for Learning Fingerpicking Patterns

Mastering fingerpicking patterns in classic country songs can take time, patience, and practice. If you’re new to this genre, or if you’re looking to improve your fingerpicking skills, here are some tips to help you along your journey.

1. Start Slow

It’s important to remember that fingerpicking patterns require precision and muscle memory. As such, it’s best to start slow and gradually increase speed as you become more comfortable with the pattern. You may also want to practice each hand individually before attempting to combine them.

2. Focus on Accuracy

When learning a fingerpicking pattern, it can be tempting to focus solely on speed. However, it’s important to prioritize accuracy over speed. By focusing on accuracy, you’ll build confidence and accuracy in your playing, which will eventually translate to faster speeds.

3. Use a Metronome

Practicing with a metronome is a great way to improve your timing and rhythm. Set the metronome to a slow tempo and gradually increase it as you become more comfortable with the pattern. This will also help you stay consistent in your playing.

4. Study the Masters

To better understand fingerpicking patterns in classic country songs, study the masters. Listen to recordings of iconic fingerpickers and watch tutorial videos to gain insight into their techniques. You can gain valuable insight into the mechanics and nuances of fingerpicking by studying those who have mastered the craft.

5. Experiment with Variation

Once you become comfortable with a fingerpicking pattern, try experimenting with variations. Add your own flair to a pattern by changing the order of notes or adding embellishments. This will help you develop your own unique style while also expanding your technical abilities.

Remember, learning fingerpicking patterns is a process. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t master a pattern right away. With time, patience, and practice, you’ll eventually become an expert fingerpicker who can tackle even the most challenging of classic country songs.

Conclusion

After diving into the world of classic country fingerpicking patterns, it’s clear to see the level of complexity and skill required to master this art. From the Travis picking technique to the Merle Travis picking technique, each style creates a unique sound that sets classic country songs apart from the rest.

By breaking down popular songs like “El Paso” by Marty Robbins and “Folsom Prison Blues” by Johnny Cash, we can see how fingerpicking patterns are used to enhance the overall sound and feeling of the song. Additionally, Eddy Arnold’s “Make the World Go Away” and Emmylou Harris’s cover of “The Boxer” demonstrate how fingerpicking patterns can be used in a variety of genres, not just classic country.

Learning fingerpicking patterns takes time and dedication, but with the right resources and tips, anyone can become proficient in this art. Remember to start slow and gradually increase speed, practice with a metronome to stay on beat, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and patterns.

In conclusion, mastering fingerpicking patterns in classic country songs is a rewarding experience that adds depth and intricacy to your playing. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or a beginner, incorporating fingerpicking into your playing can elevate your skills to new heights. So grab your guitar and start practicing today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common fingerpicking techniques used in classic country songs?

Some common fingerpicking techniques used in classic country songs include Travis picking, Carter picking, Merle Travis picking, and Boom-chick picking.

What is Travis picking?

Travis picking is a technique where the thumb alternates between two or more bass notes while the fingers play a syncopated melody on the higher strings. It’s named after Merle Travis, one of its pioneers.

What is Carter picking?

Carter picking is a fingerpicking technique where the thumb plays a steady bass pattern while the fingers play the melody and chords on the higher strings.

What is Merle Travis picking?

Merle Travis picking is a fingerpicking style that blends Travis picking with other techniques like hammer-ons, pull-offs, and harmonic devices to create complex arrangements.

What is Boom-chick picking?

Boom-chick picking is a simple fingerpicking technique where the thumb plays the root and fifth of the chord alternately while the fingers play a continuous melody.

Can you break down the fingerpicking pattern for “El Paso” by Marty Robbins?

For “El Paso,” you can use a simple Travis picking pattern on the chords (G, B7, Em, C, D) where the thumb alternates between the bass notes (E, A, D) and the fingers play a melody on the higher strings.

What is the fingerpicking pattern for “Folsom Prison Blues” by Johnny Cash?

The fingerpicking pattern for “Folsom Prison Blues” involves a steady alternating bass played with the thumb against a syncopated melody played with the fingers. You can use a combination of Travis picking and Boom-chick picking to achieve this sound.

What is the fingerpicking pattern for “Make the World Go Away” by Eddy Arnold?

The fingerpicking pattern for “Make the World Go Away” is a simple Carter picking pattern with occasional hammer-ons and pull-offs for added embellishment. The chords are (C, G, D, A, F), and the melody walks up and down the scale.

What is the fingerpicking pattern for “The Boxer” by Simon and Garfunkel (covered by Emmylou Harris)?

The fingerpicking pattern for “The Boxer” is a complex Travis picking pattern that incorporates thumb slaps and string mutes for percussive effects. You can break it down into smaller parts and practice them slowly before putting it all together.

What are some tips for learning fingerpicking patterns?

Some tips for learning fingerpicking patterns include starting slowly, breaking down the pattern into smaller parts, practicing with a metronome, watching tutorial videos, and learning songs by ear. It’s also important to keep your hand and wrist relaxed and use proper fingerpicking technique.

Why are fingerpicking patterns important in classic country music?

Fingerpicking patterns are important in classic country music because they add depth, complexity, and texture to the chords and melody. They also allow a single guitar to sound like a full band, which was especially important in the early days of country music when instrumentation was limited.

References

• Country and Blues – Fingerstyle Guitar Lesson – YouTube
• Five Folk Finger Picking Patterns – YouTube