Famous Country Guitarists Who Utilize Tapping in Their Playing

As a listener of country music, you may have noticed some guitar players who seem to make their instruments sing with incredible speed and dexterity. You may be left wondering how they achieve that level of skill and complexity. Well, the answer may be tapping. Tapping is a guitar playing technique that has gained popularity in various genres of music for its unique sound and versatility. In this article, we will explore the history of tapping in country music and highlight some of the famous country guitarists who utilize it in their playing. Plus, we’ll reveal some tips on how you can incorporate tapping into your own guitar playing. So, grab your guitar and let’s dive in!

What is Tapping?

As a guitar playing technique, tapping is often associated with heavy metal and rock music genres. This method involves the guitarist tapping the frets with their fingers rather than strumming the strings with a pick. However, tapping has been utilized in various music genres, including country music. In this section, we will explore the basics of tapping, its history and how it is employed in country music. Whether you are a seasoned guitar player or a beginner looking to expand your skills, understanding tapping and how to incorporate it into your playing can take your music to the next level. If you’re a beginner, you can start with “Tapping on electric guitar basics” or look at ’10 Country Tap Songs’ for inspiration.

The Basics of Tapping

Tapping is a guitar-playing technique that involves using the right hand to “tap” the fretboard instead of using a pick, resulting in a unique sound that can often be faster than traditional methods. The technique involves using the fingers of the right hand to produce the notes on the fretboard while the left hand supports the neck of the guitar. Tapping can be done with one or both hands, depending on the player’s preference and the desired sound.

The benefits of tapping include:

Tapping is often used in conjunction with other guitar techniques, such as hammer-ons and pull-offs, to create intricate melodies and solos. It can be used in a variety of genres, including rock, metal, and country music.

While tapping may seem like an advanced technique, it can be learned by guitarists of any level. With proper hand placement and practice, anyone can incorporate tapping into their playing and take their skills to the next level.

To learn more about tapping in country music, check out our article on country tapping techniques. If you’re interested in improving your tapping speed and accuracy, our article on improving tapping speed and accuracy provides valuable tips and exercises. For more information on proper hand placement when tapping on an electric guitar, head over to our article on proper hand placement for tapping on electric guitar. And for a step-by-step guide to performing electric guitar tapped arpeggios, be sure to read our comprehensive guide on electric guitar tapped arpeggios.

History of Tapping in Country Music

It may come as a surprise to some, but the history of tapping in country music has a rich and interesting past. While tapping may not be as commonly associated with country guitarists as it is with rock or metal, its use has influenced the genre and left its mark on some of the most recognizable songs in the country music canon. From its early adoption to its inclusion in modern country music, the evolution of tapping is a fascinating story. To learn more about country tapping techniques, let’s take a closer look at its history in the genre.

Early Adoption of Tapping in Country Music

Before tapping became a popular technique in rock and metal music, it was adopted early on by some country guitarists. The origins of tapping in country music can be traced back to the 1950s, when guitarist Jimmy Bryant incorporated it into his playing.

Jimmy Bryant was a virtuoso guitarist known for his blazing fast picking and unique phrasing. He utilized tapping in some of his recordings, such as the song “Stratosphere Boogie,” where he taps a soaring melody high up on the fretboard.

Another early adopter of tapping in country music was Roy Buchanan. Buchanan was known for his intense and innovative playing style, which included fluid legato runs and unconventional phrasing. He incorporated tapping in his playing to create a distinct sound, as heard in his song “The Messiah Will Come Again.”

Albert Lee, who is still active today, is another notable guitarist who was influenced by Jimmy Bryant and Roy Buchanan. Lee’s use of tapping is evident in his signature song “Country Boy,” where he taps out a fast and intricate melody in the solo section.

Meanwhile, Danny Gatton was known for his eclectic style, which included elements of country, jazz, and rock. He incorporated tapping into his playing to great effect, creating a unique sound that can be heard on his album “88 Elmira St.”

Finally, Chet Atkins was another country guitarist who dabbled in tapping. Although not his primary technique, Atkins did use tapping in some of his recordings to add a bit of flair to his playing.

The early adoption of tapping in country music paved the way for future guitarists to incorporate the technique into their own playing. It added a distinctive sound to the genre and helped push guitar playing to new heights.

Famous Country Guitarists Who Utilize Tapping

Country guitar playing is a beautiful art form, with guitarists consistently pushing the boundaries of what is possible with the instrument. One technique that has gained popularity in recent years is tapping, where the player uses both hands to produce intricate melodies and rapid-fire arpeggios. The results are stunning and complex, making country guitarists who use tapping stand out in the genre. Here are some of the most talented and innovative country guitarists who incorporate tapping into their playing.

Brad Paisley

Brad Paisley is a famous American country guitarist known for his impressive skills and unique style. He has incorporated tapping into his playing to create a sound that is entirely his own. Paisley’s ability to seamlessly blend tapping with traditional country guitar techniques has made him a standout musician in the genre. Here are a few things to know about Brad Paisley’s use of tapping:

• Influence of Rock Guitarists: Paisley’s use of tapping was heavily influenced by legendary rock guitarists such as Eddie Van Halen and Steve Vai. He has spoken about how he was drawn to the unique sound that tapping added to rock music and brought that influence into his country playing.
• Fluidity of Style: What makes Paisley’s tapping technique so impressive is his ability to make it flow seamlessly with his other guitar techniques. He is known for his fluid style of playing, and tapping is just another layer to that skill.
• Creative Use of Tapping: Paisley doesn’t limit his tapping to just flashy solos. He incorporates tapping into his rhythm playing as well, creating a unique sound that sets him apart from other country guitarists.
• Challenging Techniques: Some of Paisley’s tapping techniques can be challenging for even experienced guitarists. But for those willing to put the time and effort into learning, it can open up new avenues for creativity and personal style in their playing.

Brad Paisley’s use of tapping in his country guitar playing has helped propel him to the top of the genre. His unique sound and creative use of techniques make him stand out among other talented musicians. For those looking to incorporate tapping into their own playing, Paisley’s style is a great example of how it can be done effectively.

Keith Urban

Keith Urban is one of the most popular and influential country guitarists of our time. He is known for his electrifying live performances and his signature guitar style, which incorporates tapping in a unique way. Urban’s use of tapping is not only a display of his technical prowess, but also an integral part of his sound.

Some of Keith Urban’s most famous tapping moments can be found in songs like “Somebody Like You” and “Days Go By”. In these songs, Urban uses tapping to create catchy, memorable melodies that stick in your head long after the song is over.

But tapping isn’t just a party trick for Urban – it’s a vital part of his sound. He uses tapping to create intricate, layered guitar parts that add depth and complexity to his songs. Whether he’s playing clean, jangly chords or blazing solos, Keith Urban’s tapping technique is always on display.

One of the keys to Urban’s tapping technique is his use of hybrid picking. This technique involves using a pick and fingers to pluck the strings, allowing for greater dexterity and precision when tapping. Urban also utilizes a modified tapping technique, where he taps with both his left and right hands simultaneously, creating a more complex sound.

The influence of Keith Urban on the tapping technique in country music cannot be overstated. He has inspired countless guitarists to incorporate tapping into their own playing, and his unique approach to the technique has set the bar high for aspiring guitarists.

If you’re interested in learning more about tapping, studying Keith Urban’s playing is a great place to start. Pay close attention to his use of hybrid picking and modified tapping techniques, and try to incorporate these techniques into your own playing. With practice and dedication, you can master the tapping technique and create a sound that is uniquely your own.

Brent Mason

Brent Mason is one of the most influential country guitarists of all time, known for his use of tapping and other innovative techniques. Born in Van Wert, Ohio in 1959, Mason moved to Nashville in the early 1980s and quickly established himself as a session player.

Mason’s tapping technique is unique in that he often utilizes it in conjunction with hybrid picking, which involves using a pick and the fingers of the right hand to pluck the strings. This allows him to create complex rhythms and melodies that are both intricate and driving at the same time.

Mason’s most famous use of tapping can be heard in his solo on “Hot Wired,” the title track of his 1997 album. In this solo, he uses tapping to create lightning-fast runs that are melodic and exciting.

In addition to his work as a session player, Mason has also released several solo albums and has worked as a producer, songwriter, and sideman for a variety of artists.

Mason’s contributions to country guitar playing cannot be overstated, and his use of tapping continues to influence guitarists around the world. While his technique may seem daunting to beginners, with practice and dedication it is possible to incorporate some of his innovations into your own playing.

Albert Lee

Albert Lee is a British-born guitarist known for his virtuosic fingerstyle playing and use of hybrid picking. He has been a collaborator and session musician for numerous country and rock artists, including Emmylou Harris, The Everly Brothers, and Eric Clapton.

Lee is also known for his use of tapping in his playing, especially in his signature song, “Country Boy”. In the song, Lee uses tapping to create fast, staccato runs that add a unique element to his already impressive playing.

But Lee’s use of tapping isn’t just limited to “Country Boy”. He incorporates it into other songs and solos, using the technique to add a unique flavor to his playing. Lee is also known for his use of stretch fingerings, which allows him to reach beyond the traditional limits of the fretboard.

Aside from his use of tapping and stretch fingerings, Lee is also known for his impeccable tone and phrasing. He has a keen sense of melody and knows how to craft solos that fit perfectly within the context of a song.

What sets Lee apart from other guitarists is his ability to seamlessly blend various techniques and styles. He draws influences from rock, country, and jazz, creating a sound that is uniquely his own.

If you’re interested in incorporating tapping into your playing, studying Albert Lee’s technique is a great place to start. His mastery of the technique and unique approach to the guitar can provide valuable insights and inspiration for any aspiring guitarist.

Danny Gatton

Danny Gatton was a renowned American country guitarist, known for his innovative style and virtuosic playing. Gatton was born in Washington, D.C. in 1945 and began playing guitar at a young age. He quickly developed a unique playing style that blended elements of country, rock, and jazz. Gatton was particularly known for his use of the “claw” technique, which involved using all four fingers of his right hand to pluck the strings in a precise and intricate manner.

Gatton’s use of tapping was also a key element of his playing. He utilized tapping in both lead and rhythm playing, adding fast and flashy runs that helped him stand out from his contemporaries. Gatton was especially skilled at incorporating tapping into his country solos, adding a unique and dynamic element to his playing.

One of Gatton’s most famous songs, “Fingers on Fire,” showcases his tapping prowess. The song features a fast and complex tapping riff that demonstrates Gatton’s technical proficiency and creativity.

Key Takeaways:

• Danny Gatton was a renowned American country guitarist known for his innovative style and virtuosic playing.
• Gatton blended elements of country, rock, and jazz in his playing, and was particularly known for his use of the “claw” technique with all four fingers of his right hand.
• Gatton utilized tapping in both lead and rhythm playing, adding fast and flashy runs to his playing.
• “Fingers on Fire,” is one of Gatton’s most famous songs that features a fast and complex tapping riff that demonstrates his technical skill and creativity.

Gatton’s use of tapping helped push the boundaries of country music guitar playing and influenced future generations of guitarists. His unique style and technical proficiency continue to inspire and awe guitar players all over the world.

Johnny Hiland

Johnny Hiland is a renowned country guitarist who has gained recognition for his fast and intricate playing style that incorporates tapping. He was born with a visual impairment that left him legally blind, but that didn’t stop him from pursuing his passion for music. Hiland first gained attention in the early 2000s, when he released his self-titled debut album. Since then, he has become a sought-after session musician and has worked with some of the biggest names in country music.

Here are some of the reasons why Hiland’s tapping technique is so impressive:

Speed: Hiland is known for his lightning-fast playing style, and his tapping technique is no exception. He can execute precise taps at high speeds, creating a flurry of notes that are both impressive and musically satisfying.

Complexity: Hiland is not content to simply tap out one or two notes. Instead, he incorporates tapping into his solos and fills, often using it to play complex melodies and arpeggios that would be impossible to achieve with traditional picking techniques.

Musicality: While Hiland’s tapping is impressive from a technical standpoint, what sets him apart is his ability to integrate tapping seamlessly into his playing. He doesn’t use tapping as a party trick; rather, he uses it to enhance the musicality of his solos and fills.

If you’re interested in learning how to incorporate tapping into your playing like Johnny Hiland, here are a few tips:

• Start Slow: Tapping can be a difficult technique to master, so don’t try to rush things. Start by tapping out simple melodies or scales at a slow tempo, and gradually increase your speed as you get more comfortable.
• Use the Right Fingers: When tapping, it’s important to use the right fingers on your fretting hand. Most guitarists use their index or middle finger to tap, but some also use their ring finger. Experiment to see what works best for you.
• Practice Tapping Exercises: There are plenty of tapping exercises available online that can help you develop your technique. Incorporate these exercises into your practice routine to improve your tapping skills.
• Listen to Other Tappers: While Johnny Hiland is certainly a great guitarist to listen to for inspiration, there are plenty of other tappers out there worth exploring. Check out players like Stanley Jordan, Eddie Van Halen, and Steve Vai to get a sense of what’s possible with tapping.

With practice and patience, you too can incorporate tapping into your playing and create dynamic solos and fills like Johnny Hiland.

Steve Wariner

Steve Wariner is a highly respected country guitarist who has been utilizing tapping in his playing for decades. He has been praised for his unique approach to the technique, seamlessly incorporating it into his licks and solos.

Here are some highlights of Steve Wariner’s tapping technique and style:

Incorporating Steve Wariner’s tapping style into your own playing can add a new dimension to your country guitar playing, allowing you to create unique sounds and expand your musical vocabulary. With practice and dedication, you too can master the tapping technique and make it your own.

Vince Gill

Vince Gill is a legendary country guitarist who has been actively contributing to the genre for several decades. He is known for his exceptional picking and strumming technique, and his skill in utilizing tapping in his playing has also earned him great acclaim.

Gill’s tapping style is characterized by smooth and fluid runs that add a unique texture to his playing. He often incorporates tapping in his solos, creating a signature sound that is instantly recognizable. His fast and precise tapping technique is particularly impressive, and it adds a level of complexity to his playing that sets him apart from other guitarists.

Apart from his tapping technique, Gill is also known for his versatility as a guitarist. He is equally adept at playing acoustic and electric guitars and is well-versed in various genres, including rock and blues. His wide range of influences is reflected in his playing, making him one of the most sought-after session guitarists in the industry.

To get a better understanding of Gill’s tapping style, let’s take a look at some of his notable performances. In his live rendition of “Guitar Slinger,” Gill employs tapping to create a dynamic solo that showcases his technical proficiency on the guitar. He also uses tapping in “One More Last Chance,” adding a catchy, melodic riff that elevates the song’s chorus.

Gill’s tapping style is particularly effective in country music because it adds a level of complexity and sophistication to the genre. It allows guitarists to create memorable solos that stand out in a crowded field. Gill’s tapping, in particular, works well because it adds a level of technicality to his otherwise melodic and emotional playing.

If you’re interested in incorporating tapping into your own playing, studying Gill’s technique can be a great starting point. His fast and precise tapping runs can seem intimidating at first, but with practice, you can learn to incorporate tapping into your solos seamlessly. With proper technique and consistent practice, you can develop your own take on this unique and captivating technique.

Why Tapping Works in Country Music

When it comes to country music, there’s a certain flair and charm that sets it apart from other genres. One of the reasons why tapping works so well in country music is because of its unique sound and ability to add a touch of complexity to an otherwise straightforward song. But what exactly makes tapping such a perfect fit for country music? Let’s dive into the reasons behind its success in this genre.

The Unique Sound of Tapping

Tapping is a guitar playing technique that involves using the right hand to rapidly hit the strings against the fretboard, producing a distinctive sound that’s unlike anything else. This technique has been utilized by many famous country guitarists to great effect, giving their music a unique and unforgettable quality.

One reason that tapping creates such a unique sound is that it allows guitarists to play notes that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with other techniques. By using rapid and precise tapping motions, country guitarists can create runs of notes that cascade up and down the fretboard in a flurry of sound, creating a sense of energy and momentum that’s hard to match.

Another reason that tapping has such a unique sound is that it often involves using both hands to create complex and intricate melodies. This kind of dual-handed playing can be incredibly challenging to master, but when executed properly, it adds an extra layer of richness and complexity to the music.

Additionally, the sound of tapping has a certain percussive quality to it that’s reminiscent of drumming or fingerpicking. This rhythmic quality gives tapping a distinctive groove that blends well with the driving rhythms and melodies of country music.

Overall, the unique sound of tapping is an essential part of what makes country music so special. With its rapid-fire note sequences, dual-handed playing, and percussive rhythm, tapping adds a level of complexity and excitement to country guitar playing that’s unparalleled.

How to Learn and Incorporate Tapping in Your Playing

As you’ve seen, tapping can add a unique flair to your country guitar playing. If you’re ready to learn how to incorporate tapping into your own playing, you’ve come to the right place. In this section, we’ll dive into some techniques, exercises, and tips for properly incorporating tapping into your playing. By the end of this section, you’ll have the skills and knowledge you need to start adding tapping to your country guitar repertoire. Let’s get started!

Proper Technique for Tapping

Tapping is a guitar technique that requires proper technique to be executed effectively. Learning proper technique for tapping is crucial for any guitarist who wants to master this skill. Here are some key elements to keep in mind:

By incorporating these elements into your tapping technique, you can ensure that your tapping sounds clean and polished. Keep in mind that learning proper technique takes time and practice, so be patient with yourself and you’ll improve over time.

Tapping Exercises and Practice Tips

If you’re interested in incorporating tapping into your country guitar playing, it’s important to practice proper technique and develop your skills through a variety of exercises. Here are some tapping exercises and practice tips to get you started:

• Start Slow: Just like with any new technique, it’s important to start slow and gradually build up speed. Start by tapping one note at a time and gradually add more notes to the pattern.
• Use a Metronome: A metronome can be an incredibly useful tool when practicing tapping. Start at a slower tempo and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable with the technique.
• Focus on Accuracy: Tapping requires a high level of accuracy and precision, so it’s important to focus on hitting each note cleanly and clearly.
• Incorporate Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs: Tapping often works best when combined with hammer-ons and pull-offs. Practice incorporating these techniques into your tapping patterns for a smoother sound.
• Experiment with Different Finger Positions: While many guitarists use their index and middle fingers for tapping, you can experiment with different finger positions and find what works best for you.
• Practice in Different Keys and Positions: To really master tapping, it’s important to practice in different keys and positions on the neck of the guitar. This will help you become more comfortable with the technique and able to apply it to different chords and progressions.

Remember, like any new technique, tapping takes time and practice to master. But with patience and dedication, you can add this exciting technique to your country guitar playing and create a unique sound all your own.

The Future of Tapping in Country Music

As we look to the future of country music and the role that tapping will play within the genre, one thing is certain: tapping is here to stay. Whether it’s used in a subtle way to add texture and depth to a song, or as a flashy technique to showcase a guitarist’s technical ability, tapping has firmly established itself as a staple in the country guitar vocabulary.

One factor that will likely contribute to the continued use of tapping in country music is the popularity of the technique among younger guitarists. As more and more young players discover the unique sound and possibilities of tapping, we can expect to see it incorporated in new and exciting ways within the genre.

Another reason why tapping is likely to remain a key technique in country music is its versatility. Unlike some other techniques that can feel limiting in certain musical contexts, tapping can be adapted and manipulated in a variety of ways to fit nearly any style of country music. Whether it’s being used to play a fast and flashy solo, or to add a delicate, melodic touch to a ballad, tapping can be a powerful tool in the hands of a skilled guitarist.

The future of tapping in country music is bright and full of possibilities. Whether you’re a fan of traditional country music, or an enthusiast of the more modern sounds coming out of Nashville, tapping is sure to remain an essential part of the country guitarist’s toolkit. So whether you’re a seasoned player looking to expand your technique, or a beginner just starting to explore the world of country guitar, tapping is a technique that’s worth taking the time to learn and master.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tapping is a unique and impressive technique that has found a home in country music. It has been used by some of the most famous country guitarists, including Brad Paisley, Keith Urban, and Brent Mason, to create awe-inspiring solos and add flavor to their playing.

However, tapping is not just for the pros. With proper technique, practice, and determination, anyone can incorporate tapping into their playing style. It’s a great way to add a unique sound and style to your playing and stand out from other guitarists.

As country music continues to evolve and change, it’s likely that tapping will continue to play a role in shaping the sound of the genre. By learning and incorporating tapping into your playing, you’ll be setting yourself up to be part of the future of country music guitar playing.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your guitar, practice your tapping technique, and become a part of the rich tradition of tapping in country music. With hard work and dedication, you can become the next famous country guitarist known for utilizing tapping in your playing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between tapping and hammer-ons and pull-offs?

While all three techniques involve using your fingers to play notes on the guitar, tapping involves using your right hand to “tap” the fretboard, while hammer-ons and pull-offs involve only the left hand.

Can tapping be used in acoustic guitar playing?

Absolutely! Tapping can be used on both acoustic and electric guitars, although it may be easier to execute on an electric with a lower action.

How did tapping become popular in country music?

The technique was first popularized by rock guitarists like Eddie Van Halen, but was quickly adopted by country guitarists looking to add new sounds to their playing.

What are some common tapping patterns used in country music?

Some common patterns include using one finger to tap each note in a scale, tapping a melody while simultaneously playing a chord, and tapping a repeating pattern while playing a different rhythm with the left hand.

Can tapping be used in rhythm playing, or is it only for solos?

Tapping can be used in both lead and rhythm playing, although it is more commonly associated with solos.

What type of guitar is best for tapping?

Any guitar can be used for tapping, although guitars with a flatter fretboard radius and lower action may be easier to play.

Is tapping a difficult technique to learn?

Like any technique, tapping requires practice, but it can be learned fairly quickly with proper instruction and consistent practice.

Can tapping be used in other genres of music besides country?

Absolutely! Tapping has been used in rock, metal, jazz, and many other genres of music.

Is it better to use a pick or fingers when tapping?

It’s a matter of personal preference, and many guitarists use a combination of both pick and fingers when playing. Experiment to see what works best for you.

Can tapping be used on bass guitar?

Yes, tapping can be used on bass guitar, and many bassists use the technique to add new sounds and textures to their playing.

References

• Tapping – Wikipedia
• 5 Eddie Van Halen Songs That Explain His Genius