As electric guitarists, we are always seeking new ways to push our playing to the next level. The art of tapping arpeggios can bring a fresh sound to your country music playing, adding complexity and versatility to your solos. However, mastering this technique can seem daunting, especially for beginners. Fear not, as we will explore what tapped arpeggios are, how to play them, and even provide examples of how top country guitarists have incorporated them into their music. Let’s dive in and elevate our playing to new heights!
What Are Tapped Arpeggios and Why Are They Useful?
Tapped arpeggios are a unique technique that are frequently used in country music to add a fast, flashy sound to a guitar solo. They involve tapping on the fretboard with one hand while the other hand maintains a fretting position. The technique creates a crisp, staccato effect that can be used to play fast runs or arpeggios with ease.
Tapped arpeggios involve using the fingers of one hand to tap the fretboard instead of using a pick or another finger. This allows the guitarist to play notes much faster than when using the conventional picking method. The technique is used widely in country guitar, as well as in other genres such as rock and metal. Tapped arpeggios can be played in a variety of patterns and can be used to enhance solos or for rhythmic accompaniment.
In country music, soloing and adding tasteful licks is a fundamental part of creating a song’s overall sound. Tapped arpeggios can add a distinct punch to a guitar solo, and they are often used by guitarists to create striking and memorable solos. Country tapping techniques can add a slick and flashy sound to the guitar, which is perfect for country music’s fast-paced nature. The technique also allows the player to create a wide range of sounds and effects, giving them more flexibility in their playing.
As country guitarists often perform in ensembles, tapped arpeggios can help cut through the mix and make their guitar stand out in the arrangement. Whether it’s the rhythm guitar player or the lead soloist, tapping techniques enhance their guitar chops and create an attention-grabbing personality in the band sound.
In the next section, we will discuss how to play tapped arpeggios on an electric guitar for country music. Check out our guide on the basics of tapping electric guitar to get started.
What Are Tapped Arpeggios?
Tapped arpeggios may sound like a complex term for beginners, but they are not as intimidating as they seem. In simple words, it is a guitar playing technique which involves tapping the fretboard with one or more fingers of the picking hand- a technique popularized by Eddie Van Halen in the ’80s. In this guitar playing method, the left-hand fingers lay down the chord structure, while the right-hand fingers tap out the melody. Tapped arpeggios have become a hallmark of country and rock music, so it’s no wonder why many aspiring guitarists want to master this unusual technique. But before we discuss the best ways to learn them, let’s take a closer look at what makes tapped arpeggios so unique and why they are so vital for country music. If you’re interested in exploring the examples of tapped arpeggios in country music, you can follow the link to our list of 10 iconic country tapping songs.
Why Are Tapped Arpeggios Useful for Country Guitar?
Tapped arpeggios are an incredibly useful tool for any guitarist, but especially for those interested in playing country music. Here are some reasons why:
– Quick and Efficient: Tapped arpeggios can be played very quickly and with great efficiency. This can be useful in many different country guitar contexts, whether you’re looking to play fast runs in a solo or add some intricate picking to a rhythm section.
– Unique Sound: Tapped arpeggios also have a unique sound compared to other techniques like strumming or fingerpicking. This can make them a valuable addition to your country guitar playing, allowing you to stand out and add some personality to your sound.
– Versatility: Tapped arpeggios can be used in many different ways in country music. They can be used to add texture to a chord progression, create interesting solos, or even as a rhythmic tool. This versatility means that the more you practice tapped arpeggios, the more you’ll be able to incorporate them into your playing style.
– Inspiration from Famous Guitarists: Many famous country guitarists, such as Brad Paisley and Keith Urban, use tapped arpeggios in their playing. By learning from their examples, you can add some of their signature techniques to your own playing and improve your overall skills. Check out our examples of tapped arpeggios in country music below to get inspired.
Tapped arpeggios are a valuable technique to add to your country guitar playing. By incorporating them into your playing, you can create a unique sound, play quickly and efficiently, and add some versatility to your overall style. Want to learn more about tapping in country music? Check out our article on country tapping techniques to get started.
How to Play Tapped Arpeggios
Preparation: Before diving into how to play tapped arpeggios, it’s important to have some groundwork. First of all, make sure your guitar is properly tuned. Tapped arpeggios require good intonation to sound pleasing to the ear. Secondly, have a comfortable seat and adjust your guitar strap to a comfortable height. Thirdly, place your right hand on the bridge of your guitar to dampen any string noise.
Technique: To play tapped arpeggios, you need to use a tapping finger. Typically, the tapping finger is the first or middle finger of the right hand, though that’s not a strict rule. You’ll also need to use your fretting hand to hold down certain strings.
Here’s how to play a simple tapped arpeggio:
1. Place your index finger on the 8th fret of the high E string, your middle finger on the 10th fret of the B string, and your pinky finger on the 12th fret of the G string.
2. Pick the first note (the one on the high E string) with your right hand while keeping your left hand fingers pressed down.
3. Then tap the string with your middle finger of your right hand (or a finger of your choosing) at the 12th fret.
4. Pull off your right hand finger, letting the note ring out.
5. Repeat steps 2-4 for the remaining notes in the sequence.
Common Tapped Arpeggio Patterns: There are many different patterns you can use to play tapped arpeggios. Some common ones include:
1. Four-note pattern: this pattern uses the same technique as the example above, but with four notes.
2. Six-note pattern: involves more strings and tapping fingers, making it a bit more complex, but also more dynamic.
3. Triplet pattern: This is a simple but effective pattern that uses three notes.
To learn more about different tapped arpeggio techniques visit /country-tapping-techniques/.
Tips for Improving Your Tapped Arpeggios: If you’re just starting your tapping journey, here are some tips that will help you develop your skills:
1. Build Finger Strength: Playing tapped arpeggios requires strong fingers on both hands. So, try practicing finger strengthening exercises, like squeezing a stress ball.
2. Practice Slowly and Accurately First: When starting off, first practice each step of the tapping technique slowly and with precision. Then gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable with the process.
3. Experiment with Dynamics and Timing: Experiment with different ways to play your tapped arpeggios, adding variations in dynamics and timing for more expression.
4. Use Tapped Arpeggios in Context: To make a tapped arpeggio sound musical, it’s important to know when to use it in a song’s context.
5. Learn from Others: Study famous country guitarists’ playing techniques to learn more about tapped arpeggios. To look more into this, check out the article about /famous-country-guitarists-tapping/.
Examples of Tapped Arpeggios in Country Music:
1. Brad Paisley’s Tapped Arpeggio Solo in ‘Start A Band’ is a great example of a tapped arpeggio technique being used to create a memorable and recognizable solo.
2. Keith Urban’s Tapped Arpeggio Solo in ‘Days Go By’ showcases the use of tapping arpeggios in creating an upbeat, country-pop solo.
3. Brent Mason’s Tapped Arpeggio Solo in ‘Hot Wired’ is another great example of how tapped arpeggios can be used to create a fast-paced, dynamic solo.
If you want to learn more about improving your tapping speed and accuracy, visit /improve-tapping-speed-accuracy/.
Conclusion: Tapped arpeggios are a great technique for any electric guitarist to learn, especially if you’re interested in playing country music. By following the steps outlined above, and practicing regularly, you’ll be able to develop your tapped arpeggio playing skills in no time!
Preparation
Before diving into the technique itself, it’s important to take a few moments and prepare yourself for playing tapped arpeggios on your electric guitar. Proper preparation can make all the difference in achieving clear and crisp sounds. So, what are some key steps you can take to ensure you’re ready to start tapping? Firstly, you’ll want to make sure your guitar is properly tuned and in good condition. Secondly, it’s important to have the right hand placement for tapping on the electric guitar. If you need a refresher on proper hand placement, check out our article on proper hand placement for tapping on the electric guitar. With these basics covered, you’ll be ready to tackle tapped arpeggios with confidence.
Technique
Mastering the technique for playing tapped arpeggios is crucial for achieving clarity and speed. Here are the steps to get started:
| Step 1: Familiarize Yourself with Finger Placement |
| Firstly, identify which finger placement you will be using. Generally, players tend to use their index and middle finger for the tapping hand and the thumb, index, middle and ring fingers of their picking hand to play the arpeggio. |
| Step 2: Practice Muting the Strings |
| Muting the strings that you don’t want to sound out is another crucial element of the technique. You can use your picking hand fingers to touch the strings you do not intend to play, while simultaneously hitting the fret with your tapping hand finger. |
| Step 3: Master the ‘Hammer On – Pull Off’ Motion |
| This motion involves ‘hammering on’ a note with your tapping hand finger, and then ‘pulling off’ it sharply, so that the tapped note remains ringing while the other notes fall silent. |
| Step 4: Lifting Your Fingers Quickly |
| After you tap a note, quickly lift your tapping hand finger from the fret to prevent the note from continuing to ring out. This motion is known as ‘lifting off’, and it is this action that creates the staccato, percussive sound that is a characteristic of arpeggios played in this manner. |
| Step 5: Build Speed and Accuracy |
| Finally, building speed and accuracy takes practice, and patience is necessary. Start slowly and focus on accuracy rather than speed when practicing. Build up the tempo over time, and pay attention to keeping your notes clear and distinct while maintaining good control over your fingers. |
Keep in mind that learning any new technique requires patience and dedication, and this is no different for tapped arpeggios. However, stick with the above steps and you will soon be able to play arpeggios with a percussive flourish that will add a new dimension to your country music playing repertoire.
Common Tapped Arpeggios Patterns
When it comes to playing tapped arpeggios on electric guitar, there are a few common patterns that are worth exploring. Below, we’ve compiled a table of these patterns, along with some brief descriptions and suggested fingerings. Remember, these are just starting points – feel free to experiment and come up with your own variations!
| Pattern | Description | Suggested Fingering |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2-4 Arpeggio | This pattern is based on a simple 3-note arpeggio, with the notes played on the 1st, 2nd, and 4th fingers of the fretting hand. The tapped note is played with the picking hand’s index or middle finger. | 1-2-4 / T-#12-#16 |
| 3-2-1 Arpeggio | This pattern follows the same basic structure as the 1-2-4 arpeggio, but with the order of the fretting hand fingers reversed. It can be a bit trickier to execute smoothly, but can create a cool descending effect when used in melodies or solos. | 3-2-1 / T-#12-#16 |
| Hammer-On Arpeggio | In this pattern, one or more of the notes in the arpeggio is played with a hammer-on instead of a pick or tap. This creates a smoother, more legato sound. To execute a hammer-on, simply strike the string with your fretting finger instead of picking or tapping it. | 1h2-1h4-1h5 / T-#22-#26-#29 |
| Harmonic Arpeggio | This pattern uses harmonics instead of fretted notes for a unique, bell-like sound. To play a harmonic, lightly touch the string directly above the fret with your picking hand’s finger. This will create a high-pitched, sustained tone. | 12h-12h-12h / T-#12-#12-#12 |
| Double-Stop Arpeggio | In this pattern, two notes are played simultaneously with each tap or pick stroke. This creates a richer, more complex sound that can add depth to solos or melodies. | 1-2 / T-#12, 2-4 / T-#14, 3-4 / T-#15 |
Remember, these patterns are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to tapped arpeggios. Use them as a starting point, and experiment with different fingerings, rhythms, and variations to create your own unique sound. With practice and persistence, you’ll be tapping your way to country guitar greatness in no time!
Discover Top 3 Electric Guitar Bestsellers
- Offers nearly everything of its higher-end cousin, the ESP KH-2, at a price that more musicians can afford
- Features neck-thru-body construction, a comfortable alder body, and a 3 pc. extra-thin U-shaped maple neck
- The pau ferro fingerboard features 24 extra-jumbo frets and Kirk Hammett's skull-and-bones inlays
- Components include a Floyd Rose bridge and a set of EMG Kirk Hammett Bone Breaker Signature pickups
- A powerful guitar designed for professional recording and performance, perfect for any serious player of intense music
- Designed for James Hetfield, frontman of Metallica and one of the most highly respected rhtyhm guitarists
- Based on James' custom design, with set-neck construction for stability and smooth access to the highest frets
- Features a mahogany body with maple cap, a 3 pc. mahogany neck with ebony fingerboard and 22 XJ frets with an Iron Cross inlay
- Powered by James' own EMG JH SET active pickups, and includes a TonePros locking TOM bridge and tailpiece
- Includes an ESP EC form-fit guitar hard case to safely transport your new instrument
- Designed to offer the tone, feel, looks, and quality that professional musicians need, while still being affordable
- Consistently one of ESP's most popular guitars due to its combination of incredible looks and great performance
- Offers a vintage looking body/neck/headstock binding and gold hardware and includes premier components
- Includes LTD locking tuners, Tonepros locking TOM bridge and tailpiece, and the aggression of active EMG 81/60 pickups
- Also offers set-thru construction with a mahogany body, 3 pc. mahogany neck, and 24-fret Macassar ebony fingerboard
Tips for Improving Your Tapped Arpeggios
Improving your tapped arpeggios takes time and practice, but there are some tips and tricks you can use to make the process more manageable.
Build Finger Strength
One of the most critical aspects of playing tapped arpeggios is developing finger strength. Your fretting hand will be doing a lot of work, so it’s essential to build up the necessary muscle. Try squeezing a stress ball or using a hand-grip strengthener to help strengthen your fingers.
Practice Slowly and Accurately First
Start slow and gradually build up speed. It’s tempting to try to play at your fastest speed right away, but it’s better to start with accuracy and build up speed as you progress. This approach will ensure that you learn the proper technique and prevent you from developing bad habits.
Experiment with Dynamics and Timing
Tapped arpeggios offer a lot of room for experimentation with dynamics and timing. Varying the timing of your taps can help create new and exciting patterns. Experiment with adding vibrato and staccato to your tapped arpeggios to add more depth and variety to your playing.
Use Tapped Arpeggios in Context
While it’s essential to practice your tapped arpeggios in isolation, it’s equally important to learn how to use them within the context of a song. Try to incorporate your tapped arpeggios into your practice routine with backing tracks or metronomes to give you context as you improve.
Learn from Others
One of the best ways to improve your tapped arpeggios is by learning from others. Watch videos of guitarists who specialize in playing tapped arpeggios, study their technique and style, and try to incorporate some of their tricks into your playing. You can also take lessons from a guitar teacher who specializes in this technique to get full guidance.
Improving your tapped arpeggios takes time and effort, but with the right mindset and practice, you can take your playing to the next level.
Build Finger Strength
As a guitarist, you know that finger strength is vital for playing complex and fast patterns. However, developing finger strength is easier said than done. You might find yourself struggling with certain techniques because your fingers feel weak and uncoordinated. But don’t worry, with dedication and practice, you can strengthen your fingers and improve your playing. In this section, we will explore some exercises and techniques to help you build finger strength and control on the electric guitar.
Practice Slowly and Accurately First
One of the most important tips for mastering tapped arpeggios on electric guitar for country music is to practice slowly and accurately first. This may seem obvious, but many beginners make the mistake of trying to play too fast too soon, which only leads to frustration and mistakes.
To start, choose a simple tapped arpeggio pattern, such as a basic major triad spanning two or three strings. Then, practice playing the pattern slowly and accurately, making sure to hit each note cleanly and with even timing.
Here are some tips for practicing slowly and accurately:
- Use a metronome: Set a slow tempo on a metronome and play along, gradually increasing the tempo as you improve.
- Focus on one string at a time: Rather than trying to play the full pattern right away, focus on getting each string in the arpeggio sounding clean and even before moving on to the next one.
- Eliminate excess movement: When playing tapped arpeggios, it’s important to keep your fingers and picking hand as close to the strings as possible to minimize excess movement and reduce the risk of mistakes.
- Record yourself: Use a recording device to capture your playing and listen back to identify any areas that need improvement.
- Take breaks: Don’t practice for too long without a break, as fatigue and frustration can set in and lead to mistakes. Take regular breaks and come back to your practice with a fresh mindset.
By starting with slow and accurate practice, you can build a strong foundation for more advanced tapped arpeggio patterns and techniques. Don’t rush the process; take the time to master each step before moving on to the next one. With dedication and practice, you’ll be able to play complex tapped arpeggios with ease and become a skilled player in the country music genre.
Experiment with Dynamics and Timing
When it comes to playing tapped arpeggios on electric guitar for country music, experimenting with dynamics and timing is essential for adding extra flair and creating a unique sound. Here are some tips on how to do it:
- Vary Volume: Tapped arpeggios can be played at different volumes to create a dynamic effect. Experiment with gradually increasing or decreasing the volume, and alternating between loud and soft notes. This technique can help to highlight certain notes in the arpeggio and create a more interesting overall sound.
- Play with Rhythm: Changing up the rhythm of a tapped arpeggio can also add an extra level of interest. Try playing the arpeggio with different time signatures, or experiment with playing certain notes in unexpected places within the rhythm. This can give the arpeggio a unique feel and prevent it from becoming too repetitive.
- Use Vibrato: Vibrato is a slight variation in pitch that can be applied to individual notes in the arpeggio. It can add a lot of emotion and character to the sound, and is a great way to make the arpeggio more expressive. Experiment with applying vibrato to different notes in the arpeggio, and at different speeds and intensities.
- Explore Panning: Panning is the process of dividing the sound between left and right speakers, and can be used to create a wider or more spatial sound. Try panning the tapped arpeggio to one side or the other, or experiment with automating the panning so that the arpeggio moves back and forth between the two speakers. This technique can add a lot of depth to the sound of the arpeggio and make it more interesting to listen to.
These are just a few examples of the ways you can experiment with dynamics and timing in your tapped arpeggio playing. Don’t be afraid to try new things and see what works best for you – there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to creating music. By incorporating these techniques into your playing, you can take your tapped arpeggios to the next level and create a signature sound that is all your own.
Use Tapped Arpeggios in Context
In order to make the most out of your tapped arpeggios, it’s important to understand how and where to use them in a musical context. Here are some tips for doing just that:
- Consider the Song: Before even thinking about incorporating tapped arpeggios into your playing, consider the song you are playing and whether or not they would fit the style and mood. Some songs lend themselves better to tapping than others, so choose wisely.
- Target Chord Tones: When tapping arpeggios, it’s important to target chord tones of the underlying harmony. This means playing the notes that make up a given chord. This will create a sense of harmonic clarity and help your tapped arpeggios fit into the overall musical context.
- Take it Slow: When first incorporating tapped arpeggios into your playing, it’s important to take things slow. Start by tapping simple arpeggio patterns and gradually work your way up to more complex ones. Remember to focus on accuracy and timing, even if you have to play at a slower tempo.
- Blend with Other Techniques: Tapping should be used as a complementary technique alongside other guitar techniques such as picking, hammer-ons, and pull-offs to create a dynamic sound. Use tapped arpeggios to accentuate certain phrases or to add a unique flavor to your solos.
- Experiment with Dynamics: Don’t be afraid to experiment with dynamics and expression while tapping. Varying your intensity and volume can help create a sense of tension and release, giving your playing depth and emotion.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to use tapped arpeggios in a way that fits with the surrounding musical context and adds a unique flavor to your playing. Remember to experiment and have fun, and soon you’ll be tapping your way to new heights of musical creativity!
Learn from Others
Learning from others is an important aspect of developing your own guitar tapping skills. Here are some ways to do that:
- Watch Guitar Tapping Tutorials: One of the easiest ways to learn from others is by watching guitar tutorials on YouTube or other online platforms. Look for tutorials specifically on tapped arpeggios or country music to find the most relevant resources.
- Find a Guitar Teacher: A guitar teacher can provide you with personalized feedback and guidance on your technique. Look for a teacher who specializes in country music or tapped arpeggios to get the most benefit.
- Attend Guitar Workshops and Masterclasses: Attending workshops and masterclasses is a great way to learn from experienced guitarists. These events often feature demonstrations and instruction on specific techniques, including tapped arpeggios.
- Study Guitar Solos: Analyzing guitar solos from your favorite country songs can provide insights into effective tapped arpeggio patterns and how to use them in context. Listen closely to the timing, phrasing, and dynamics of the solo to understand how the guitarist approached the technique.
- Collaborate with Other Musicians: Collaborating with other musicians can expose you to different styles and techniques. Work with other guitarists, bassists, or drummers to develop your tapped arpeggio skills in a musical context.
Remember, learning from others can be a valuable tool in your journey to becoming a better guitarist. Use these resources to your advantage and don’t be afraid to ask for help or guidance when needed.
Examples of Tapped Arpeggios in Country Music
When it comes to playing country music on the guitar, the use of tapped arpeggios is a common technique that many guitarists employ to create interesting and intricate sounds. In this section, we’ll take a look at some examples of tapped arpeggios in country music and the guitarists who use them.
Example 1: Brad Paisley’s Tapped Arpeggio Solo in “Start A Band”
In “Start A Band,” Brad Paisley uses a tapped arpeggio technique to create a fast and complex solo that complements the song’s uptempo rhythm. The solo begins with a fast arpeggio pattern played using tapping, which is followed by a sliding scale passage that leads back into the main melody. This technique provides an interesting contrast to the song’s more straightforward chord progressions and helps to make the solo stand out.
Example 2: Keith Urban’s Tapped Arpeggio Solo in “Days Go By”
Keith Urban’s solo in “Days Go By” makes use of tapped arpeggios to create an intricate and melodic sound that complements the song’s wistful lyrics. The solo starts with a fast and complex arpeggio run played using tapping, which is followed by a slower, melodic passage that showcases Urban’s technical proficiency on the guitar. This technique helps to add depth and emotion to the solo, making it a standout moment in the song.
Example 3: Brent Mason’s Tapped Arpeggio Solo in “Hot Wired”
Brent Mason is known for his incredible technical ability on the guitar, and his solo in “Hot Wired” is a perfect example of his mastery of the instrument. The solo starts with a fast and complex tapping pattern that quickly transitions into a series of arpeggio runs played at breakneck speed. This technique helps to create a sense of intensity and excitement, and showcases Mason’s virtuosic skills on the guitar.
As you can see, the use of tapped arpeggios is a common technique in country music, and many guitarists use it to create intricate and interesting sounds in their solos. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner just starting out, learning how to incorporate tapped arpeggios into your playing can help you take your guitar skills to the next level.
Example 1: Brad Paisley’s Tapped Arpeggio Solo in ‘Start A Band’
As we delve into the world of tapped arpeggios for country guitar, it’s important to listen to and draw inspiration from seasoned pros. One shining example of this technique can be found in Brad Paisley’s ‘Start A Band’. In this solo, Paisley delivers a master class in using tapped arpeggios to create a dynamic and engaging melody. Let’s take a closer look at some key moments in this solo and explore how Paisley uses tapped arpeggios to elevate his playing.
Example 2: Keith Urban’s Tapped Arpeggio Solo in ‘Days Go By’
Keith Urban’s tapped arpeggio solo in “Days Go By” is a fantastic example of how to use tapped arpeggios in a country guitar context.
The Song: “Days Go By” is a mid-tempo country rock song with a memorable chorus and a tasteful guitar solo.
The Solo: The solo section begins with a short lick that leads into the tapped arpeggio section. The arpeggios are played over a repeating I-IV-V progression, with Keith adding some tasteful embellishments and variations.
The Technique: Keith uses a combination of tapping and hybrid picking to execute the arpeggios. He taps with his fretting hand and plucks the remaining notes with his picking hand fingers. This allows for a smooth and fluid sound.
The Arpeggios: The arpeggios Keith uses in this solo are fairly simple, but played with great precision and musicality. He starts with a G major shape arpeggio in the 3rd position, before moving up to a C major shape arpeggio in the 8th position, and finishing with a D major shape arpeggio in the 10th position.
| Arpeggio | Position | Shape |
|---|---|---|
| G Major | 3rd | 1st Position |
| C Major | 8th | 3rd Position |
| D Major | 10th | 4th Position |
The Feel: Keith’s playing in this solo is confident and relaxed, with a great sense of groove and swing. He uses plenty of vibrato and bends to add emotion to the arpeggios, and he also throws in some tasteful slides and pull-offs for good measure.
Keith Urban’s tapped arpeggio solo in “Days Go By” is a great example of how to use this technique in a country music context. By combining simple arpeggios with tasteful embellishments and a relaxed feel, he creates a memorable and musical solo that stands out within the song.
Example 3: Brent Mason’s Tapped Arpeggio Solo in ‘Hot Wired’
When it comes to impressive tapped arpeggio solos in country music, Brent Mason’s work in “Hot Wired” is definitely worth a close look. With his incredible speed and precision, he takes this flashy guitar technique to the next level.
Musical context: “Hot Wired” is the title track of Brent Mason’s second solo album, released in 1997. The song features a driving country rock groove with plenty of room for soloing. Mason’s tapped arpeggios come in during the song’s instrumental section, right after the opening riff.
Technical details: Mason’s solo begins with a repeated tapped arpeggio pattern that travels up and down the guitar neck, using both hands to produce a fluid, seamless sound. He then moves into a more complex series of arpeggios that combine tapping with sweep picking and other techniques. Throughout the solo, Mason’s proficiency with tapped arpeggios is on full display, showcasing just how effective this technique can be in the context of a high-energy country rock tune.
What sets it apart: Even among the many great tapped arpeggio solos in country music, Brent Mason’s work in “Hot Wired” stands out for its sheer complexity and technical skill. This solo demonstrates just how far a player can push the boundaries of this technique, creating a sound that is both impressive and musically compelling. For guitar players looking to expand their tapped arpeggio vocabulary, Mason’s solo is an excellent source of inspiration and study.
To get a glimpse of Brent Mason’s tapped arpeggio prowess in “Hot Wired,” check out this excerpt from the song’s instrumental section:
| Measure | Tablature |
| 1 | e|————————————————————– B|————————————————————– G|————————————————————– D|————————————————————– A|–14–12–11–12p11p9h11–9h11p9h11p9h11–9—————– E|————————————————————– |
| 2 | e|————————————————————– B|————————————————————– G|————————————————————– D|————————————————————– A|————————————————————– E|–14–12–14–12–11–12–14–12–11–12–14–12–11–12p11p9– |
| 3 | e|————————————————————– B|————————————————————– G|————————————————————– D|————————————————————– A|————————————9h11p9h11p9h11–9———- E|–9–11–12–11–9–11–12–11–9–11—————————– |
| 4 | e|————————————————————– B|————————————————————– G|————————————————————– D|–11–9–7—–7—–7—–7—–7—–7—–7—–7—–7—– A|—————9p7h9–9p7h9–9p7h9–9p7h9–9p7h9–9p7h9–9p7h9– E|————————————————————– |
This is just a small sampling of the solo’s many tapped arpeggio passages, but it gives a sense of the technical dexterity and musicality that Brent Mason brings to this technique. With a bit of practice and experimentation, you too can start incorporating tapped arpeggios into your own country guitar solos, drawing inspiration from the greats like Brent Mason along the way.
Conclusion
In conclusion, learning and mastering tapped arpeggios is a valuable addition to any country guitarist’s skillset. The technique provides unique sounds and textures that can add depth and interest to your playing.
As with any new skill, it takes time and practice to develop proficiency in playing tapped arpeggios. However, the effort is worth it, as tapping can help you create intricate and impressive solos that stand out from the crowd.
To improve your tapped arpeggios, consider building finger strength, practicing slowly and accurately, experimenting with dynamics and timing, using the technique in context, and learning from others’ examples. By following these tips, you can become a more skilled and dynamic tapped arpeggio player.
Furthermore, understanding how tapped arpeggios are used in popular country songs can help you apply the technique in your own playing. You can learn a lot from guitar greats like Brad Paisley, Keith Urban, and Brent Mason, who have used the technique to great effect in their music.
In conclusion, tapped arpeggios are a versatile and powerful technique that can add a new dimension to your country guitar playing. With dedicated practice and a willingness to experiment with different patterns and dynamics, you can master this technique and create your own unique sound that sets you apart from other guitar players.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a regular arpeggio and a tapped arpeggio?
A regular arpeggio involves picking or strumming each note individually, while a tapped arpeggio involves tapping the notes on the fretboard with your fretting hand.
Do I need a certain level of guitar proficiency to learn tapped arpeggios?
While it helps to have some basic guitar skills, anyone can learn tapped arpeggios with practice and dedication.
Is finger strength important for playing tapped arpeggios?
Yes, having good finger strength will make it easier to execute tapped arpeggios smoothly and quickly.
What are some common tapped arpeggio patterns used in country music?
Common patterns include tapping a triad (root, third, fifth), tapping a six-string arpeggio, and tapping an extended arpeggio.
Can tapped arpeggios be used in other genres besides country?
Absolutely! Tapped arpeggios can be used in a variety of genres, including rock, metal, and fusion.
What is the benefit of practicing slowly and accurately when learning tapped arpeggios?
Practicing slowly and accurately helps to build muscle memory and ensure proper technique, leading to cleaner execution at higher speeds.
How can I incorporate tapped arpeggios into my guitar solos?
You can use tapped arpeggios as a way to add variation and complexity to your solos, or as a centerpiece for a solo section.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when learning tapped arpeggios?
Common mistakes include tapping too hard, not muting the strings properly, and not keeping a steady tempo.
What is a good exercise for building finger strength for tapped arpeggios?
Practicing scales and chromatic exercises with hammer-ons and pull-offs can help build finger strength and dexterity.
Can I use tapped arpeggios in rhythm playing as well as solos?
It is possible to use tapped arpeggios in rhythm playing, such as in chord progressions or as a way to create rhythmic fills.
