Mastering the Basics of Tapping on Electric Guitar

As an aspiring guitarist, mastering the basics of tapping on electric guitar can feel like an overwhelming task. However, tapping is a fundamental technique that adds a new level of complexity and depth to your playing. If you’re feeling perplexed about where to begin, don’t worry – this guide will take you through the basics step-by-step.

From understanding the technique to exercises and techniques for tapping, this article will give you the foundation you need to get started. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, there’s always something new to learn when it comes to tapping on electric guitar. So, let’s dive in and discover the world of tapping!

What is Tapping?

Tapping is a popular technique used by many guitarists to create a unique and dynamic sound. Instead of using a pick to pluck the strings, tapping involves using your fingers to precisely strike the fretboard, creating rapid notes and complex melodies. This technique has been used by legendary guitarists such as Eddie Van Halen and Steve Vai, and has been incorporated into various genres of music, including rock, metal, and even country. In this article, we will explore the basics of tapping on electric guitar, the different techniques and exercises for mastering it, the role of tapping in country music, and tips to improve your tapping skills. So, if you want to take your guitar playing to the next level, keep reading! You can also check out some examples of tapping in country music in our article “Tapping in Country Music”.

The Basics of Tapping

Tapping is a technique used on the electric guitar that involves the use of both hands on the fretboard to produce notes and create intricate musical passages. The basics of tapping involve using the fingers of the picking hand to hammer-on and pull-off notes, while using the fingers of the fretting hand to mute or play other strings.

Here are the basic steps to get started:

• Position: Start with proper hand placement by ensuring that the thumb of the fretting hand is positioned behind the neck of the guitar while the fingers are curved over the strings.
• Tap: Use the index finger (or any other finger) of your picking hand to tap the selected string at a specific fret.
• Pull-Off: Pull your tapping finger downward to create a pull-off (or hammer-off) sound.
• Mute: Use your fretting hand to mute other strings or notes that are not part of the riff you are playing.
• Practice: Start slowly with one string, and gradually work your way up to tapping on multiple strings and playing faster licks.

Mastering the basics of tapping allows guitarists to create complex sounds and incorporate the technique into their playing style. The benefits of tapping include the ability to play faster, more complex melodies, and make use of unique musical patterns that can’t be achieved with traditional playing techniques.

For those who enjoy country music and want to learn more about tapping, check out 10 popular country songs that use tapping. Additionally, there are specific exercises and techniques that can help improve your tapping ability such as arpeggio tapping and tapping with chords that can be useful to add to your practice routine.

It’s essential to focus on accuracy and timing when practicing tapping. Using a metronome and starting at a slower speed is crucial to improve tapping speed and accuracy. Properly maintain consistent practice schedules to ensure mastery of the basics before advancing to new techniques.

The basics of tapping lay out the foundation for mastering the technique, and with practice and dedication, guitarists can become proficient and incorporate this unique playing style into their music.

The Benefits of Tapping

Tapping is a technique that not only improves your overall guitar playing ability but also offers other benefits. Here are some of them:

• Increases finger strength: Since tapping involves using your fingers to repeatedly strike the strings, it can significantly increase your finger strength over time. This strength can help you to not only play more complicated tapping patterns but also other guitar techniques that require finger strength.
• Improves dexterity: Tapping involves intricate finger movements that need precision, making your fingers more dexterous. This dexterity can also carry over to other guitar playing techniques and even non-musical activities that require fine motor control, such as typing.
• Expands your playing style: Tapping opens up a new world of possibilities for your guitar playing, allowing you to create more complex solos and riffs. It can also help you develop a unique sound that sets you apart from other guitarists.
• Boosts creativity: The intricate nature of tapping can stimulate creativity in the player. As you explore the different tapping techniques, you may come up with new ideas that you had never thought of before.

To maximize these benefits, it’s important to use proper hand placement when tapping on the electric guitar. Check out our article on proper hand placement for tapping on electric guitar for more information.

If you’re interested in famous guitarists who use tapping in their music and how they incorporate it into their playing, read our article on famous country guitarists who use tapping.

How to Get Started

Before you dive into the world of tapping on electric guitar, it’s important to have a strong foundation and understanding of the basics. Here are some steps to get you started:

• Start with a clean slate: It’s best to practice tapping on a clean guitar with low action, meaning the strings are close to the fretboard. This will make it easier to tap the strings cleanly without extra noise.
• Get comfortable: Find a comfortable position to sit or stand while playing. Make sure your guitar is at a height that allows you to easily reach the higher frets with your tapping hand.
• Warm up: Before jumping into tapping, warm up your fingers and hands with simple exercises like finger stretches and scale runs.
• Use the right fingers: Tapping involves using your fretting hand to tap the strings against the fretboard. The most commonly used fingers for tapping are the index and middle fingers, but some players also use their ring finger or pinky.
• Practice tapping on an open string: Start by tapping on an open string, using your fretting hand to tap the string against the fretboard and creating a clear, ringing note. It’s important to use a light touch and not press down too hard or you’ll mute the string.
• Try tapping on different frets: Once you’re comfortable tapping on an open string, try tapping on different frets while holding down a chord with your picking hand. This will allow you to create more complex melodies and chord progressions.
• Experiment: Tapping is all about experimentation, so don’t be afraid to try new things and push yourself out of your comfort zone. Mix it up with different rhythms and techniques to develop your own unique tapping style.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the basics of tapping on electric guitar. Remember to take your time and practice consistently, and you’ll soon be tapping like a pro!

Techniques and Exercises for Tapping

Are you ready to take your electric guitar skills to the next level? Tapping is a dynamic technique that can help you create a range of sounds and styles, from intricate solos to country twangs. By using your fingers to sound notes instead of relying solely on a pick or strumming, you can explore a whole new world of possibilities. In this section, we will delve into some of the most popular techniques and exercises for tapping. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced guitarist, you’re sure to find some helpful tips and tricks. Let’s get started with some finger-flying fun.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

Hammer-ons and pull-offs are two essential techniques to master in order to become proficient at tapping on electric guitar. With these techniques, you can create fast, fluid lines by using a combination of tapping and fretting. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Hammer-ons: To execute a hammer-on, simply tap your finger on the fretboard at the desired location, and then quickly “hammer” your finger down on the same string at a higher fret without picking it again. This will create a smooth, fluid sound as you transition from one note to the next. Start with a simple exercise, such as tapping your index finger on the 5th fret of the high E string, then hammering your middle finger down on the 7th fret of the same string. Repeat this pattern, gradually increasing speed as you become more comfortable.
• Pull-offs: To execute a pull-off, simply tap your finger on the fretboard at the desired location, then quickly pull your finger off of the string while allowing the note to ring out. This technique creates a smooth, legato sound that is perfect for creating fast, fluid lines. Start with a simple exercise, such as tapping your index finger on the 7th fret of the high E string, then pulling your middle finger off of the 5th fret of the same string. Repeat this pattern, gradually increasing speed as you become more comfortable.
• Combining Hammer-ons and Pull-offs: Once you have mastered the basic hammer-on and pull-off techniques, try combining them to create more complex lines. For example, you might start by tapping your index finger on the 5th fret of the high E string, then hammering your middle finger down on the 7th fret, pulling off to the 5th fret, and then hammering your ring finger down on the 8th fret. This technique can be used to create fast, fluid lines that are perfect for lead guitar playing.

Remember, mastering hammer-ons and pull-offs takes practice and patience, but with consistent effort and dedication, you can become a master of tapping on electric guitar. So, keep at it, and don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things as you develop your own unique tapping style.

Single String Tapping

One of the fundamental techniques in tapping is the single-string approach. This technique involves tapping onto one string with your picking hand to create a fast and melodic sound. To perform this technique correctly, you need to follow the below steps:

To improve your single-string tapping skills, you should start with basic exercises. These exercises involve tapping the same note repeatedly and then moving to tapping different notes on the same fret or across different frets.

For instance, try practicing the exercise below regularly:

Once you can execute these basic exercises comfortably, you can start experimenting with your own single-string tapping licks by combining them with other techniques like hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides. Remember to start slow and gradually increase your speed as you get comfortable with the technique.

Arpeggio Tapping

Arpeggio tapping is a technique that is commonly used in electric guitar playing. It involves tapping out the notes of an arpeggio on the fretboard using your fingers instead of using a pick. This creates a unique sound that is different from what can be achieved with traditional picking or strumming techniques.

To get started with arpeggio tapping, first, choose an arpeggio that you would like to play. An arpeggio is a series of notes that make up a chord. Practice tapping out each note of the arpeggio with your fingers, starting with the root note and moving up to the highest note. Focus on using your tapping finger to hammer on the fret and create a clear sound.

Here are a few exercises to try:

• Start with a simple three-note arpeggio, such as a C major triad. Tap out the root note, then move up to the third and fifth notes of the chord.
• Next, try a four-note arpeggio, such as a D minor seventh chord. Tap out the root note, then move up to the minor third, fifth, and seventh notes of the chord.
• For a harder challenge, try a five-note arpeggio, such as a G major ninth chord. Tap out the root note, then move up to the major third, fifth, seventh, and ninth notes of the chord.

As you practice arpeggio tapping, try experimenting with different patterns and combinations of notes. You can also try adding in techniques like hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides to create a more complex sound.

Remember to focus on accuracy and timing, and start slow before gradually increasing your speed. Over time, with consistent practice, you’ll be able to master this impressive technique and add it to your repertoire of guitar skills.

Tapping with Chords

Tapping with chords is a more advanced technique that involves tapping notes within a chord shape. To start, it’s important to have a good understanding of the basic chord shapes and fingerings.

One technique you can use for tapping with chords is to play the melody line on the higher strings while tapping the lower chord tones with your other hand. This creates a harmonic and rhythmic interplay that can be quite compelling.

Another approach is to tap out individual notes within a chord shape. This can be especially effective for accenting certain parts of a chord progression or creating unique rhythms.

Check out the table below for some common chord shapes used in tapping, along with their corresponding tapping patterns:

Remember, tapping with chords can take some time to master, so be patient and keep practicing. Focus on accuracy and timing, and gradually increase your speed over time. By incorporating tapping with chords into your playing, you can open up a whole new world of sonic possibilities.

Tapping Licks

Tapping licks are an impressive way to showcase your skills and add flair to your guitar playing. These licks involve complex patterns and require a lot of practice to master. Here are some popular tapping licks to get you started:

• The Hammer-On/Pull-Off Combo: Begin by hammering on a note with your fretting hand, then tap a higher note with your picking hand. Pull off with your fretting hand to play another note, then tap yet another higher note with your picking hand. Repeat this sequence for a smooth run of notes.
• The Double Tap: This lick involves tapping two notes in quick succession. Start by tapping a lower note with your picking hand, then tap a higher note immediately after with the same finger. This creates a fast and impressive run of notes.
• The Cascading Arpeggio: This advanced lick involves playing a series of arpeggios in quick succession. Start by tapping the first note of the arpeggio with your picking hand, then play the rest of the arpeggio with your fretting hand. Immediately tap the first note of the next arpeggio with your picking hand and repeat the pattern.
• The Unison Bend: This lick is a classic tapping technique used by many famous guitarists. Start by fretting a note, then tap the same note an octave higher with your picking hand. Bend the fretted note up to match the tapped note for a soaring effect.
• The Wide Stretch: This impressive lick involves tapping two notes that are far apart from each other. Start by tapping a high note with your picking hand, then fret a lower note with your fretting hand. Stretch your fretting hand to tap another high note with the same finger that just tapped the first note. Repeat this pattern for an impressive stretch of notes.

Remember, these tapping licks require a lot of practice to master. Start slow and gradually increase speed while keeping focus on accuracy and timing. With consistent practice, you can incorporate these impressive tapping licks into your guitar playing repertoire.

Playing Tapping in Country Music

Country music is one of the most beloved genres of music worldwide, with its unique sound and heartfelt lyrics. When it comes to guitar playing in country music, many techniques are used to create a distinctive sound, including the art of tapping. Tapping on an electric guitar may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of country music, but it can be an effective and impressive technique to add to your playing style. Let’s dive into how tapping is used in country music and explore some famous examples.

Famous Country Artists Who Use Tapping

When it comes to tapping on electric guitar, country music might not be the first genre that comes to mind. However, some of the biggest names in country music have incorporated tapping into their playing style.

Brad Paisley: Brad Paisley is a renowned country guitarist who has been known to use tapping in his solos. One of his most famous songs that features tapping is “Huckleberry Jam,” where he seamlessly adds tapping licks to the melody.

Brent Mason: Brent Mason is an accomplished session guitarist who has worked with some of the biggest names in country music. He is known for his technical prowess and has used tapping in his solos on various recordings.

Keith Urban: Keith Urban is a well-known country musician who has incorporated tapping into his playing style. He uses tapping in a variety of his songs, including “Long Hot Summer,” where he adds tapping licks to the rhythm section.

Johnny Hiland: Johnny Hiland is a country guitarist who is known for his fast playing and unique style. He frequently uses tapping in his solos to add a special flair to his playing.

Danny Gatton: Danny Gatton was a legendary guitarist who played a variety of genres, including country. He was known for his incredible technique and often used tapping in his solos to create a unique sound.

These country artists showcase that tapping can be an effective and exciting technique to use in any genre of music. By incorporating tapping into their playing style, these performers have created a unique and recognizable sound that sets them apart from other guitarists.

How Tapping Fits in Country Music

When it comes to country music, tapping may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, this technique can actually add a unique and impressive element to the genre. Let’s take a closer look at how tapping fits in country music.

Adding Flair to Solos

Many country songs feature intricate guitar solos, and tapping can be used to add some flair to these solos. By tapping on different areas of the fretboard, guitarists can create a variety of unique and complex sounds that will grab the listener’s attention. For example, the tapping technique can be used to create rapid-fire arpeggios or smooth legato melodies, adding a touch of finesse to a simple solo.

Creating Interesting Rhythms

Tapping can also be used to create interesting rhythms in country music. By tapping with different fingers in different patterns, guitarists can create rhythmic patterns with a ghost-note effect that adds another layer of complexity to the music. This technique can be particularly effective in slow ballads, adding a subtle touch of rhythm and texture that can make the song more emotive and memorable.

Collaborating with Other Instruments

In addition to solo performances, tapping can also be used in collaboration with other instruments in a band. In country music, tapping can be used in conjunction with fiddles, banjos, and other string instruments to create a unique and impressive sound. Tapping patterns can be integrated into the melody of the song or used in between chord changes to create a smooth transition, enhancing the overall musical experience.

Table: How Tapping Fits in Country Music

Tapping may not be as commonly associated with country music as it is with other genres, but it can certainly add a distinctive touch to the music. By using tapping to create unique sounds, rhythms, and melodies, guitarists can add depth to their music and stand out from the crowd.

Examples of Tapping in Country Songs

It may come as a surprise to many, but tapping can be found in a variety of music genres, including country! Here are a few examples of tapping being utilized in some popular country songs:

As you can see, tapping can be used in many different ways to add a unique flair to a country song. From arpeggio tapping in the Dixie Chicks’ “Wide Open Spaces” to single string tapping in Garth Brooks’ “Friends in Low Places,” there is no shortage of opportunities to incorporate tapping into a country guitar solo. Florida Georgia Line’s “Cruise” also showcases the use of tapping with chords, while Charlie Daniels’ iconic “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” features some impressive tapping licks.

Tapping may not always be the first technique that comes to mind when playing country music, but it can definitely add some excitement and creativity to your playing. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different tapping techniques and see how they can enhance your country guitar solos.

Tips to Improve Tapping

As with any skill, mastery of tapping on electric guitar requires practice and focus. While it may seem daunting at first, there are several techniques and exercises that can help you improve your tapping abilities. In this section, we will explore some tips to enhance your tapping skills and take your playing to the next level. From focusing on accuracy and timing, to using a metronome, and practicing consistently, these tips will help you hone your skills and become a more proficient tapper on the electric guitar. So, let’s dive in and explore how you can improve your tapping technique.

Focus on Accuracy and Timing

When it comes to tapping on the electric guitar, focusing on accuracy and timing is essential to mastering this technique. Here are some tips to help you improve your accuracy and timing:

• Practice Slowly: To improve your accuracy, it is essential to start slow and gradually increase your speed. You should aim for accuracy before speed.
• Pay Attention to Note Duration: While tapping, it’s important to make sure that each note is played for the correct duration. You don’t want to end up with notes that sound rushed or cut off too soon.
• Use a Metronome: Playing along with a metronome can be incredibly helpful for improving your timing. Set the metronome to a slow tempo at first and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable.
• Don’t Rush: It’s tempting to rush through certain parts of a tapping lick, but this can lead to inaccurate and sloppy playing. Take your time and make sure that each note is played cleanly and accurately.
• Practice Consistently: Consistent practice is key to improving your accuracy and timing. Set aside time each day to practice and focus on the areas where you need the most work.

By focusing on accuracy and timing, you can improve your tapping technique and take your playing to the next level. Remember to start slow, use a metronome, and practice consistently to make progress.

Use a Metronome

Using a metronome while practicing tapping on an electric guitar is crucial for improving accuracy and timing. A metronome is a device that produces a regular ticking sound at a set tempo, and it helps guitarists stay in time when playing music.

Here are some tips on how to make the most out of using a metronome:

1. Start slow: When first starting to practice tapping with a metronome, it’s important to start at a slow tempo and gradually increase the speed. This will allow for better control and accuracy.

2. Set the tempo: Most metronomes allow you to set the tempo, so choose a tempo that is comfortable for you and gradually increase it over time. This will also help to build endurance and stamina.

3. Use headphones: Using headphones while practicing with a metronome can help you hear the ticking sound more clearly and stay in sync with the beat.

4. Practice with different time signatures: It’s important to practice tapping with different time signatures, such as 4/4, 3/4, or 6/8, to improve overall rhythm and timing.

5. Mix up tempos: Don’t always practice tapping at the same tempo. Mix it up to challenge yourself and improve your overall timing.

By incorporating a metronome into your tapping practice routine, you’ll be able to improve your timing, rhythm, and overall accuracy on the electric guitar.

Start Slow and Gradually Increase Speed

When it comes to learning how to tap on electric guitar, one of the key pieces of advice is to start slow and gradually increase speed. This may seem like common sense, but it is a crucial step in mastering the tapping technique.

Why is starting slow important?
When you are first starting out with tapping, it is important to focus on accuracy and technique. This means that you need to be able to hit the right notes at the right time with the right amount of pressure. Starting out too quickly can lead to sloppy playing and bad habits, which can be difficult to break later on.

How do you start slow?
To start slow, begin by playing tapping exercises at a very slow tempo. This might mean playing at 60 beats per minute (BPM) or even slower. As you become more comfortable with the exercise, gradually increase the tempo. Aim to increase the tempo by around 5-10 BPM each time you feel comfortable with the exercise.

Why is it important to gradually increase speed?
Gradually increasing speed helps to reinforce good habits and technique. By slowly increasing the tempo, you give yourself time to adjust to the increased difficulty level. This can help to prevent mistakes and make the learning process smoother.

How do you know when to increase speed?
The key to knowing when to increase speed is to pay attention to how comfortable you feel with the exercise. If you are able to play the exercise accurately and without mistakes at a certain tempo, it is usually safe to increase the tempo. However, if you find yourself making mistakes or struggling to keep up with the tempo, it is best to slow down and reinforce your technique before moving on.

What are the benefits of starting slow and gradually increasing speed?
Starting slow and gradually increasing speed can help you to develop good habits and a solid foundation for tapping. It can also help to prevent injuries by avoiding the strain that can come with playing too quickly. Additionally, starting slow and gradually increasing speed can help you to build confidence and a sense of accomplishment as you progress with your tapping skills.

Practice Consistently

When it comes to improving your tapping skills on the electric guitar, consistent practice is absolutely essential. It’s not enough to simply practice occasionally, or for a short period of time each day. If you really want to make progress, you need to commit to a consistent practice routine.

Here are a few tips for building a consistent practice routine for tapping on the electric guitar:

• Schedule practice time: Make tapping practice a part of your daily routine by scheduling a specific time each day for your practice session. This will help you to build a habit and stick to your routine consistently.
• Set goals: Setting specific goals for your tapping practice can help you to stay motivated and track your progress. For example, you might set a goal to learn a new tapping lick each week, or to increase your tapping speed by a certain number of beats per minute.
• Mix it up: To prevent boredom and keep your practice sessions interesting, mix up your tapping exercises and techniques. Try different drills, explore new styles of music, and challenge yourself with more complex tapping patterns.
• Track your progress: Keep a record of your practice sessions and track your progress over time. This will help you to see the improvements you’re making and stay motivated to continue practicing consistently.
• Make it a priority: In order to really commit to consistent tapping practice, you need to make it a priority in your life. This may mean making some sacrifices, such as giving up other hobbies or activities, but it will be worth it in the end if you’re able to achieve your tapping goals.

Ultimately, the key to mastering the basics of tapping on the electric guitar is to practice consistently and stay committed to your goals. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a tapping master in no time!

Conclusion

In conclusion, mastering the basics of tapping on electric guitar can elevate your playing to the next level. It opens up new possibilities and allows you to add a unique flavor to your music. With consistent practice and focus, anyone can improve their tapping skills.

Remember to focus on accuracy and timing when practicing tapping. It’s important to hit the right notes at the right time in order for tapping to sound clean and precise. Don’t rush through the exercise, take your time and make sure you are hitting the notes accurately.

Using a metronome is also highly recommended. The metronome helps you keep a consistent tempo and allows you to gradually increase your speed over time. This will help you build muscle memory and improve your precision.

Start slow and gradually increase speed as you get more comfortable with the technique. Don’t try to play too fast right from the start, as it can lead to sloppy playing and mistakes. Take your time and gradually build up your speed as you get more comfortable with the technique.

Finally, practice consistently to see improvement in your tapping technique. Practicing every day, even for just a few minutes, can help you build muscle memory and reinforce the technique. Make it a habit to include tapping exercises in your practice routine.

In the end, tapping is a versatile and exciting technique that can be used in a variety of genres, including country music. Keep practicing and experimenting with different techniques and applications of tapping to see what works for you and your personal style. With time and dedication, you can become a master of tapping on electric guitar.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to master tapping on electric guitar?

Mastering tapping on electric guitar depends on various factors such as your dedication, practice routine, and natural talent. It could take a few months to a few years to be proficient in tapping techniques.

Do I need a special type of guitar to tap?

No, you don’t need a special guitar to tap. You can tap on any type of electric guitar, but some guitar models such as those with wider fretboards are more suitable for tapping.

Can I use tapping in any genre of music?

Yes, tapping is not limited to a specific genre of music. You can use tapping in various genres, including rock, metal, jazz, and country music.

Is it necessary to use all fingers when tapping?

No, you can use one, two, or three fingers to tap depending on the technique you’re using. However, using all fingers allows for more speed and accuracy.

How do I improve my tapping speed?

Improving tapping speed requires consistent practice and gradually increasing the speed. It’s also important to focus on accuracy and proper technique rather than speed.

Can I use tapping in rhythm playing?

Yes, tapping can be used in rhythm playing, especially in genres such as funk and pop music. You can use tapping to add accents and create rhythmic patterns.

How do I prevent string noise when tapping?

You can prevent string noise when tapping by muting the strings with your picking hand. You can use palm muting, fret-hand muting, or a combination of both.

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

Tapping involves using your picking hand to sound notes on the fretboard, while hammer-ons/pull-offs are techniques that use your fretting hand to sound notes without picking the string.

Do I need to use distortion when tapping?

No, you don’t necessarily need to use distortion when tapping. However, distortion can add sustain and make the tapped notes more prominent in the mix.

How do I incorporate tapping into my solos?

You can incorporate tapping into your solos by using it as a technique to add fast runs, arpeggios, and licks. Mix tapping with other techniques such as bending, vibrato, and slides for a varied and dynamic solo.

References

• How To Get Better at Tapping on Guitar (5 Exercises)
• Tapping Exercises – An Essential Guide