Learning to play the electric guitar is not easy. It's a journey that requires dedication, hard work, and perseverance. There are no shortcuts here. However, there are tips and bits of advice that can help you along the way toward your goal. Plus, starting with beginner electric guitar songs can boost your confidence and get you on the right track.Now, just to be clear, when we say learning to play the electric guitar is not easy, it doesn't mean learning to play the acoustic guitar is easy. Which one to choose is entirely up to you! Since the chord fundamentals remain the same, you'll eventually be able to play both, no matter which one you choose to learn.Let's explore some electric guitar songs that are perfect for beginners and won't require a lot of time to learn. These songs have recognizable melodies, easy structures, and familiar rhythms. They will help enhance your skills and give you a great confidence boost.
Start with easy songs
Learning to play the electric guitar involves a lot of things. There are chords to learn, scales to master, and picking techniques to understand. Deciphering sheet music adds another layer of challenge. Now, there is a simple trick to make this journey easier. Starting with easy songs can significantly improve your progress. It could be the key to becoming a skilled electric guitar player without losing interest.[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="2000"]
Image by Freepik[/caption]
How to pick a suitable song to practice
Let's dive into some key aspects you must consider when selecting beginner-friendly guitar songs. We'll also discuss the importance of starting slow and then picking up the pace steadily and surely.
Basic chords
As a beginner, starting with more straightforward songs with basic chords and easy riffs is best. Find songs that you enjoy and that inspire you to learn and play.
Tempo
Consider the tempo of the song. Starting with slower songs will make it easier to follow and play along with, allowing you to focus on your technique and develop a strong foundation.
Genre
Also, think about the genre of the song. If you have a musical preference, try to find a song in that genre. Playing something you enjoy will keep you motivated and interested.
Chord progressions
Look for songs with repetitive chord progressions. This will help you practice transitioning between chords smoothly and build muscle memory.
Start slow and gradually increase the difficulty
Developing your electric guitar skills takes time and patience. Building a solid foundation and proper technique is crucial, so starting slow is beneficial.By beginning with simple exercises, chords, and songs, you allow your fingers to adjust and gain strength gradually. As you make progress, increase the difficulty level. This approach not only prevents frustration and burnout but also keeps you motivated.Another reason to start slow is to avoid developing bad habits. An electric guitar tutor can also help you build the correct techniques! Rushing into complex techniques without mastering the basics can lead to sloppy playing and even potential injuries. By taking your time, you can focus on precision and accuracy, which are vital for any guitarist.
Top 5 beginner electric guitar songs that are quick to learn
The five beginner electric guitar songs we have curated for you are popular songs you can start learning immediately.
The five beginner electric guitar songs we have curated for you are popular songs you can start learning immediately.
1. "Horse with No Name" by America
About the song
Released in 1971, "Horse with No Name" is a beloved American song that has become an iconic classic. This timeless folk-rock masterpiece continues to captivate music enthusiasts even today.[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watchv=lPVK7eI2dKY[/embed]
Chords in the song
The song primarily focuses on three chords: Em, D6/9, and Asus2. These chords create a distinct melancholic and reflective atmosphere for the song.
Step-by-step guide to playing the song
1. Begin by tuning your guitar to standard tuning (EADGBE).2. Learn the chords:
- Em: Place your second finger on the 2nd fret of the A string. Keep the rest of the strings open.
- D6/9: Use your index finger to bar the 5th fret and play the 7th fret of the D, G, and B strings with your other fingers.
- Asus2: Use your index finger to bar the 2nd fret and play the 4th fret of the D and G strings with your other fingers.
3. The strumming pattern for this song is a simple down-up-down-up pattern. Take it slow at first and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.4. The intro is iconic and involves transitioning between the Em and D6/9 chords. Practice this part repeatedly until you can switch smoothly between the two chords.5. The verse and chorus mostly use the Em and Asus2 chords. Practice transitioning between these two chords until it becomes effortless.6. There is a short instrumental part between the second chorus and the final verse. It follows a progression of Em, D6/9, Em, Asus2, Em, and D6/9 chords.7. The song concludes with a sequence of Em, D6/9, and Asus2 chords. Pay attention to the dynamics and gradually fade out to capture the feel of the original recording.
2. "Seven Nation Army" by The White Stripes
About the song
The exhilarating song starts with a mesmerizing guitar riff that captivates you immediately. Jack White's powerful vocals and intense energy take you on a thrilling journey throughout the track, accompanied by the pounding drums that add an unstoppable element. The catchy melody and empowering lyrics of "Seven Nation Army" have transformed it into a stadium anthem, igniting a surge of adrenaline whenever it graces our ears.https://youtu.be/fLCXZs6SWFQsi=qWSy1CykNgfL-pF-
Chords in the song
The main riff of "Seven Nation Army" starts on the 7th fret of the A string. The chord progression during the chorus of the song goes - D5 - C5 - G5 - E5.
Step-by-step guide to playing the song
1. Begin by tuning your guitar to drop D. This involves lowering your low E string by a whole step to D.2. The song's iconic riff starts on the 7th fret of the A string and goes like this: 7-10-7-5-3-2-3. Take it slow at first, ensuring you play the notes accurately and maintain the proper timing.3. Once you've mastered the riff, it's time to include power chords. During the chorus, the chord progression is as follows: D5 - C5 - G5 - E5. To play these power chords, place your index finger on the root note and your ring finger on the two higher strings, two frets up. For instance, for the D5 chord, position your index finger on the 5th fret of the A string and your ring finger on the 7th fret of the D and G strings.4. With both the main riff and chorus in command, it's time to bring it all together. Begin by playing the intro riff a few times, then transition into the chorus. Repeat this sequence throughout the song.
3. "Smoke on the Water" by Deep Purple
About the song
"Smoke on the Water" by Deep Purple is one of the unforgettable, popular songs from the 1970s that has become a beloved classic among rock enthusiasts of all ages. With its memorable guitar riff and strong vocals, this song has proven its enduring popularity over the years. It's an energizing anthem that stirs your emotions and makes you eager to join in the excitement. Certainly one of the easy rock songs apt to be mentioned under beginner electric guitar songs.https://www.youtube.com/watchv=dr9izvP4a6E&pp=ygUzIlNtb2tlIG9uIHRoZSBXYXRlciIgYnkgRGVlcCBQdXJwbGUgZWxlY3RyaWMgZ3VpdGFy
Chords in the song
"Smoke on the Water" focuses on three power chords: G5, F5, and C5.
Step-by-step guide to playing the song
1. The introductory melody is what immediately captivates listeners in this song. It is played on the lowest E string and follows this sequence: 0-3-5, 0-3-6, 0-3-5, 0-3-6, 0-3-3-0. It may appear challenging initially, but don't worry! Take your time to familiarize yourself with this pattern. With practice, you'll become proficient in no time!2. Once you've successfully learned the intro riff, it is time to progress and focus on the chord sequence. In order to play this song, you will need to familiarize yourself with three power chords: G5, F5, and C5. To play these chords, position your index finger across all the strings involved on the low E and A strings. Prioritize practicing the seamless transition between these chords.3. Play the chorus riff with the D, G, and B strings. The sequence is as follows: 3-5-6, 3-5-6, 8-7-5, and finally 3-5-6. Taking your time when playing this riff is important, especially when transitioning from the 8th fret to the 5th.4. After successfully learning the introductory riff, chord progression, and chorus riff, it is now time to combine everything. Begin by playing the introductory riff, smoothly transitioning into the chord progression. Lastly, when the chorus arrives, play the famous riff and allow it to bring an irresistible energy to the music.
4. "Twist and Shout" by The Beatles
About the song
Originally released in 1963, 'Twist and Shout' quickly skyrocketed to the top of the charts. It has since solidified its status as a timeless masterpiece. This high-spirited track effortlessly showcases the legendary John Lennon's infectious vocals and the entire band's unstoppable energy.https://www.youtube.com/watchv=ZbYW3qlrlHE&pp=ygUwIlR3aXN0IGFuZCBTaG91dCIgYnkgVGhlIEJlYXRsZXMgZWxlY3RyaWMgZ3VpdGFy
Chords in the song
'Twist and Shout' by The Beatles uses four simple chords: D, G, A, and E.
Step-by-step guide to playing the song
1. Begin by tuning your guitar to standard tuning (EADGBE). This song is in the key of D, so ensure your guitar is correctly tuned.2. Start with the basic chords D, G, A, and E. These are simple chords and great for beginners. Practice switching between them smoothly and confidently before moving forward.3. Next, let's focus on the strumming pattern. "Twist and Shout" has an energetic and catchy rhythm. For a casual jam, you can try a straightforward downstroke strumming pattern (D - D DU) throughout the song.4. To make the song instantly recognizable, learn the main riff that opens "Twist and Shout." It goes like this: Hold a D chord, then play A, G, and D twice. Start by playing it slowly, ensuring correct finger placement. As you become more comfortable, gradually increase your speed.
5. "You Really Got Me" by The Kinks
About the song
Upon its release in 1964, "You Really Got Me" quickly skyrocketed to fame, revolutionizing the world of rock music. This song truly stands out because of its uninhibited energy and electrifying guitar riffs. Lead guitarist Dave Davies pioneered a groundbreaking technique by slashing the speaker cone of his amplifier with a razor blade, producing a distorted guitar sound that was unheard of at the time. This easy electric guitar song certainly qualifies to be under beginner electric guitar songs.https://www.youtube.com/watchv=sdKknVs6bjs&pp=ygUwIllvdSBSZWFsbHkgR290IE1lIiBieSBUaGUgS2lua3MgZWxlY3RyaWMgZ3VpdGFy
Chords in the song
The song "You Really Got Me" relies heavily on power chords. To play the main riff, it's essential to know the power chords in E and A. Don't fret if you're not familiar with power chords! They are simple to learn and produce a fantastic sound. Just practice playing the E5 and A5 power chords until you feel confident with them.
Step-by-step guide to playing the song
1. The catchy opening grabs the attention of listeners right from the start. Begin by sliding quickly from the 2nd to the 4th fret on the low E string. Then, swiftly strum the E5 power chord and repeat the A string pattern with the A5 power chord. It's a simple yet incredibly effective hook!2. The energetic drive of "You Really Got Me" stems from its captivating rhythm. Strum the power chords with emphasis on the downstrokes to capture that timeless rock sensation. Feel free to experiment with palm muting and even adding a touch of distortion for some extra edge!3. Although the solo in "You Really Got Me" may appear daunting, don't let it discourage you. Approach it one lick at a time and practice slowly to develop speed and accuracy. This solo is a fantastic way to delve into the world of lead guitar playing.4. Once you've mastered the main riff, rhythm, and solo, it's time to bring it all together. Practice playing the song from beginning to end, paying close attention to smooth transitions and dynamic variations.
Helpful tips and techniques for learning electric guitar
To master any instrument, it's crucial to prioritize consistency. Allocate a daily practice slot and commit to it unwaveringly. Begin by familiarizing yourself with the fundamental aspects. Familiarize yourself with major and minor chords and strive for smooth transitions between them. Utilize a metronome to refine your sense of timing.
Practice routines
Establish a dedicated practice schedule, committing to 30 minutes each day. Maintain consistency, treating it as an essential part of your routine.
Do a warm-up
Begin your practice session with warm-up exercises. These could involve finger stretches, scales, or playing a few minutes of your favorite riffs. Warming up prevents injuries and helps you loosen up and find your rhythm.
Focus on technique
Shift your focus to technique. Engage in specific exercises that target different areas, such as alternate picking, legato, or bending. Start slowly, gradually increasing speed while ensuring accuracy before progressing.
Set goals
Practice intentionally by setting clear goals for each session. These goals could revolve around mastering a specific solo, learning new chord progressions, or improving improvisation skills. Breaking goals into smaller, achievable steps will fuel your motivation and allow you to track progress.
Use a metronome
Remember to use a metronome while practicing. It serves as a valuable tool for developing timing and precision. Begin at a slower tempo and gradually increase it as you become more comfortable. Playing in time will elevate your skills, making you sound professional.Conclude your practice session by jamming to your favorite songs or improvising. Let loose and have fun - ultimately, that's what playing the electric guitar is all about!Online videos and guitar lessons, like on Lessonpal, can enhance your abilities. These resources can greatly contribute to your progress.
Do finger exercises
Finger exercises are often underestimated in guitar playing but are crucial. They work to strengthen and stretch your fingers, making it easier for you to play chords and solos effortlessly. Finger exercises improve your dexterity and agility and boost your overall guitar-playing abilities. Therefore, make sure to incorporate some finger exercises into your daily practice routine.
Practice listening skills and following the rhythm
To improve your electric guitar skills, there are two critical areas you need to work on: your listening skills and your ability to follow a rhythm.Listening skills play a crucial role in playing the electric guitar. Training your ears to pick up the subtle differences in notes and chords is essential. The more you practice listening, the better you recognize specific sounds and tones. This will ultimately enhance your playing technique and musicality.You also need to develop a strong sense of rhythm. Whether you are playing a slow, bluesy riff or a fast-paced solo, keeping up with the beat is essential.Now, how can you improve your listening skills and rhythm Well, practice! Take the time to listen to the music you love, paying close attention to the guitar parts and how they blend with the rest of the band. Try playing with your favorite songs, matching the rhythm and timing.
The big picture
Remember, every rockstar started as a beginner. Embrace your goals, maintain a consistent practice routine, and continue to explore and learn. The five beginner electric guitar songs we curated especially for you should help you in your journey! Don't hesitate to reach out to a Lessonpal Electric Guitar tutor for more support and guidance.
Learning to play the electric guitar is not easy. It's a journey that requires dedication, hard work, and perseverance. There are no shortcuts here. However, there are tips and bits of advice that can help you along the way toward your goal. Plus, starting with beginner electric guitar songs can boost your confidence and get you on the right track.Now, just to be clear, when we say learning to play the electric guitar is not easy, it doesn't mean learning to play the acoustic guitar is easy. Which one to choose is entirely up to you! Since the chord fundamentals remain the same, you'll eventually be able to play both, no matter which one you choose to learn.Let's explore some electric guitar songs that are perfect for beginners and won't require a lot of time to learn. These songs have recognizable melodies, easy structures, and familiar rhythms. They will help enhance your skills and give you a great confidence boost.
Start with easy songs
Learning to play the electric guitar involves a lot of things. There are chords to learn, scales to master, and picking techniques to understand. Deciphering sheet music adds another layer of challenge. Now, there is a simple trick to make this journey easier. Starting with easy songs can significantly improve your progress. It could be the key to becoming a skilled electric guitar player without losing interest.[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="2000"]
Image by Freepik[/caption]
How to pick a suitable song to practice
Let's dive into some key aspects you must consider when selecting beginner-friendly guitar songs. We'll also discuss the importance of starting slow and then picking up the pace steadily and surely.
Basic chords
As a beginner, starting with more straightforward songs with basic chords and easy riffs is best. Find songs that you enjoy and that inspire you to learn and play.
Tempo
Consider the tempo of the song. Starting with slower songs will make it easier to follow and play along with, allowing you to focus on your technique and develop a strong foundation.
Genre
Also, think about the genre of the song. If you have a musical preference, try to find a song in that genre. Playing something you enjoy will keep you motivated and interested.
Chord progressions
Look for songs with repetitive chord progressions. This will help you practice transitioning between chords smoothly and build muscle memory.
Start slow and gradually increase the difficulty
Developing your electric guitar skills takes time and patience. Building a solid foundation and proper technique is crucial, so starting slow is beneficial.By beginning with simple exercises, chords, and songs, you allow your fingers to adjust and gain strength gradually. As you make progress, increase the difficulty level. This approach not only prevents frustration and burnout but also keeps you motivated.Another reason to start slow is to avoid developing bad habits. An electric guitar tutor can also help you build the correct techniques! Rushing into complex techniques without mastering the basics can lead to sloppy playing and even potential injuries. By taking your time, you can focus on precision and accuracy, which are vital for any guitarist.
Top 5 beginner electric guitar songs that are quick to learn
The five beginner electric guitar songs we have curated for you are popular songs you can start learning immediately.
The five beginner electric guitar songs we have curated for you are popular songs you can start learning immediately.
1. "Horse with No Name" by America
About the song
Released in 1971, "Horse with No Name" is a beloved American song that has become an iconic classic. This timeless folk-rock masterpiece continues to captivate music enthusiasts even today.[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watchv=lPVK7eI2dKY[/embed]
Chords in the song
The song primarily focuses on three chords: Em, D6/9, and Asus2. These chords create a distinct melancholic and reflective atmosphere for the song.
Step-by-step guide to playing the song
1. Begin by tuning your guitar to standard tuning (EADGBE).2. Learn the chords:
- Em: Place your second finger on the 2nd fret of the A string. Keep the rest of the strings open.
- D6/9: Use your index finger to bar the 5th fret and play the 7th fret of the D, G, and B strings with your other fingers.
- Asus2: Use your index finger to bar the 2nd fret and play the 4th fret of the D and G strings with your other fingers.
3. The strumming pattern for this song is a simple down-up-down-up pattern. Take it slow at first and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.4. The intro is iconic and involves transitioning between the Em and D6/9 chords. Practice this part repeatedly until you can switch smoothly between the two chords.5. The verse and chorus mostly use the Em and Asus2 chords. Practice transitioning between these two chords until it becomes effortless.6. There is a short instrumental part between the second chorus and the final verse. It follows a progression of Em, D6/9, Em, Asus2, Em, and D6/9 chords.7. The song concludes with a sequence of Em, D6/9, and Asus2 chords. Pay attention to the dynamics and gradually fade out to capture the feel of the original recording.
2. "Seven Nation Army" by The White Stripes
About the song
The exhilarating song starts with a mesmerizing guitar riff that captivates you immediately. Jack White's powerful vocals and intense energy take you on a thrilling journey throughout the track, accompanied by the pounding drums that add an unstoppable element. The catchy melody and empowering lyrics of "Seven Nation Army" have transformed it into a stadium anthem, igniting a surge of adrenaline whenever it graces our ears.https://youtu.be/fLCXZs6SWFQsi=qWSy1CykNgfL-pF-
Chords in the song
The main riff of "Seven Nation Army" starts on the 7th fret of the A string. The chord progression during the chorus of the song goes - D5 - C5 - G5 - E5.
Step-by-step guide to playing the song
1. Begin by tuning your guitar to drop D. This involves lowering your low E string by a whole step to D.2. The song's iconic riff starts on the 7th fret of the A string and goes like this: 7-10-7-5-3-2-3. Take it slow at first, ensuring you play the notes accurately and maintain the proper timing.3. Once you've mastered the riff, it's time to include power chords. During the chorus, the chord progression is as follows: D5 - C5 - G5 - E5. To play these power chords, place your index finger on the root note and your ring finger on the two higher strings, two frets up. For instance, for the D5 chord, position your index finger on the 5th fret of the A string and your ring finger on the 7th fret of the D and G strings.4. With both the main riff and chorus in command, it's time to bring it all together. Begin by playing the intro riff a few times, then transition into the chorus. Repeat this sequence throughout the song.
3. "Smoke on the Water" by Deep Purple
About the song
"Smoke on the Water" by Deep Purple is one of the unforgettable, popular songs from the 1970s that has become a beloved classic among rock enthusiasts of all ages. With its memorable guitar riff and strong vocals, this song has proven its enduring popularity over the years. It's an energizing anthem that stirs your emotions and makes you eager to join in the excitement. Certainly one of the easy rock songs apt to be mentioned under beginner electric guitar songs.https://www.youtube.com/watchv=dr9izvP4a6E&pp=ygUzIlNtb2tlIG9uIHRoZSBXYXRlciIgYnkgRGVlcCBQdXJwbGUgZWxlY3RyaWMgZ3VpdGFy
Chords in the song
"Smoke on the Water" focuses on three power chords: G5, F5, and C5.
Step-by-step guide to playing the song
1. The introductory melody is what immediately captivates listeners in this song. It is played on the lowest E string and follows this sequence: 0-3-5, 0-3-6, 0-3-5, 0-3-6, 0-3-3-0. It may appear challenging initially, but don't worry! Take your time to familiarize yourself with this pattern. With practice, you'll become proficient in no time!2. Once you've successfully learned the intro riff, it is time to progress and focus on the chord sequence. In order to play this song, you will need to familiarize yourself with three power chords: G5, F5, and C5. To play these chords, position your index finger across all the strings involved on the low E and A strings. Prioritize practicing the seamless transition between these chords.3. Play the chorus riff with the D, G, and B strings. The sequence is as follows: 3-5-6, 3-5-6, 8-7-5, and finally 3-5-6. Taking your time when playing this riff is important, especially when transitioning from the 8th fret to the 5th.4. After successfully learning the introductory riff, chord progression, and chorus riff, it is now time to combine everything. Begin by playing the introductory riff, smoothly transitioning into the chord progression. Lastly, when the chorus arrives, play the famous riff and allow it to bring an irresistible energy to the music.
4. "Twist and Shout" by The Beatles
About the song
Originally released in 1963, 'Twist and Shout' quickly skyrocketed to the top of the charts. It has since solidified its status as a timeless masterpiece. This high-spirited track effortlessly showcases the legendary John Lennon's infectious vocals and the entire band's unstoppable energy.https://www.youtube.com/watchv=ZbYW3qlrlHE&pp=ygUwIlR3aXN0IGFuZCBTaG91dCIgYnkgVGhlIEJlYXRsZXMgZWxlY3RyaWMgZ3VpdGFy
Chords in the song
'Twist and Shout' by The Beatles uses four simple chords: D, G, A, and E.
Step-by-step guide to playing the song
1. Begin by tuning your guitar to standard tuning (EADGBE). This song is in the key of D, so ensure your guitar is correctly tuned.2. Start with the basic chords D, G, A, and E. These are simple chords and great for beginners. Practice switching between them smoothly and confidently before moving forward.3. Next, let's focus on the strumming pattern. "Twist and Shout" has an energetic and catchy rhythm. For a casual jam, you can try a straightforward downstroke strumming pattern (D - D DU) throughout the song.4. To make the song instantly recognizable, learn the main riff that opens "Twist and Shout." It goes like this: Hold a D chord, then play A, G, and D twice. Start by playing it slowly, ensuring correct finger placement. As you become more comfortable, gradually increase your speed.
5. "You Really Got Me" by The Kinks
About the song
Upon its release in 1964, "You Really Got Me" quickly skyrocketed to fame, revolutionizing the world of rock music. This song truly stands out because of its uninhibited energy and electrifying guitar riffs. Lead guitarist Dave Davies pioneered a groundbreaking technique by slashing the speaker cone of his amplifier with a razor blade, producing a distorted guitar sound that was unheard of at the time. This easy electric guitar song certainly qualifies to be under beginner electric guitar songs.https://www.youtube.com/watchv=sdKknVs6bjs&pp=ygUwIllvdSBSZWFsbHkgR290IE1lIiBieSBUaGUgS2lua3MgZWxlY3RyaWMgZ3VpdGFy
Chords in the song
The song "You Really Got Me" relies heavily on power chords. To play the main riff, it's essential to know the power chords in E and A. Don't fret if you're not familiar with power chords! They are simple to learn and produce a fantastic sound. Just practice playing the E5 and A5 power chords until you feel confident with them.
Step-by-step guide to playing the song
1. The catchy opening grabs the attention of listeners right from the start. Begin by sliding quickly from the 2nd to the 4th fret on the low E string. Then, swiftly strum the E5 power chord and repeat the A string pattern with the A5 power chord. It's a simple yet incredibly effective hook!2. The energetic drive of "You Really Got Me" stems from its captivating rhythm. Strum the power chords with emphasis on the downstrokes to capture that timeless rock sensation. Feel free to experiment with palm muting and even adding a touch of distortion for some extra edge!3. Although the solo in "You Really Got Me" may appear daunting, don't let it discourage you. Approach it one lick at a time and practice slowly to develop speed and accuracy. This solo is a fantastic way to delve into the world of lead guitar playing.4. Once you've mastered the main riff, rhythm, and solo, it's time to bring it all together. Practice playing the song from beginning to end, paying close attention to smooth transitions and dynamic variations.
Helpful tips and techniques for learning electric guitar
To master any instrument, it's crucial to prioritize consistency. Allocate a daily practice slot and commit to it unwaveringly. Begin by familiarizing yourself with the fundamental aspects. Familiarize yourself with major and minor chords and strive for smooth transitions between them. Utilize a metronome to refine your sense of timing.
Practice routines
Establish a dedicated practice schedule, committing to 30 minutes each day. Maintain consistency, treating it as an essential part of your routine.
Do a warm-up
Begin your practice session with warm-up exercises. These could involve finger stretches, scales, or playing a few minutes of your favorite riffs. Warming up prevents injuries and helps you loosen up and find your rhythm.
Focus on technique
Shift your focus to technique. Engage in specific exercises that target different areas, such as alternate picking, legato, or bending. Start slowly, gradually increasing speed while ensuring accuracy before progressing.
Set goals
Practice intentionally by setting clear goals for each session. These goals could revolve around mastering a specific solo, learning new chord progressions, or improving improvisation skills. Breaking goals into smaller, achievable steps will fuel your motivation and allow you to track progress.
Use a metronome
Remember to use a metronome while practicing. It serves as a valuable tool for developing timing and precision. Begin at a slower tempo and gradually increase it as you become more comfortable. Playing in time will elevate your skills, making you sound professional.Conclude your practice session by jamming to your favorite songs or improvising. Let loose and have fun - ultimately, that's what playing the electric guitar is all about!Online videos and guitar lessons, like on Lessonpal, can enhance your abilities. These resources can greatly contribute to your progress.
Do finger exercises
Finger exercises are often underestimated in guitar playing but are crucial. They work to strengthen and stretch your fingers, making it easier for you to play chords and solos effortlessly. Finger exercises improve your dexterity and agility and boost your overall guitar-playing abilities. Therefore, make sure to incorporate some finger exercises into your daily practice routine.
Practice listening skills and following the rhythm
To improve your electric guitar skills, there are two critical areas you need to work on: your listening skills and your ability to follow a rhythm.Listening skills play a crucial role in playing the electric guitar. Training your ears to pick up the subtle differences in notes and chords is essential. The more you practice listening, the better you recognize specific sounds and tones. This will ultimately enhance your playing technique and musicality.You also need to develop a strong sense of rhythm. Whether you are playing a slow, bluesy riff or a fast-paced solo, keeping up with the beat is essential.Now, how can you improve your listening skills and rhythm Well, practice! Take the time to listen to the music you love, paying close attention to the guitar parts and how they blend with the rest of the band. Try playing with your favorite songs, matching the rhythm and timing.
The big picture
Remember, every rockstar started as a beginner. Embrace your goals, maintain a consistent practice routine, and continue to explore and learn. The five beginner electric guitar songs we curated especially for you should help you in your journey! Don't hesitate to reach out to a Lessonpal Electric Guitar tutor for more support and guidance.