Mastering Tapping on Guitar: Easy Songs for Beginners

For guitar enthusiasts eager to explore the intricate tapping technique, there are some essential songs that provide a great starting point. These songs not only offer valuable practice material but also serve as a stepping stone for more advanced techniques. One such song is the middle solo of Stand By Him by Ghost, which heavily features tapping and legato on the high E string. This piece is particularly useful for those looking to sharpen their skills and gain confidence in this technique.

Understanding Tapping Technique

Tapping on the guitar involves pressing a string with the fretting hand on one or more frets and striking that string with the picking hand. This technique allows for complex and intricate phrases, making it a popular choice among guitar players. While it may seem challenging at first, it is essential to break down the technique into manageable parts to ensure proper learning and practice.

Why Start with "Stand By Him" by Ghost?

The Stand By Him middle solo is an excellent starting point for beginners for several reasons:

Accessible: The solo is one of the most iconic early examples of tapping used in rock music. This makes it familiar to many guitarists and a great reference point. Clear Rhythm: The use of tapping creates a clear and defined rhythm, which is crucial for a beginner to understand. Minimal Complexity: Despite its complexity, the solo is not overly complicated, making it easier to follow and practice. High E String Focus: The majority of the solo is played on the high E string, which is perfect for mastering the tapping technique on one string at a time before moving on to more complex patterns.

Step-by-Step Practice Guide

Mastering tapping technique requires patience and consistent practice. Here is a step-by-step guide to get you started:

Familiarize Yourself with the Song: Begin by listening to the song and understanding the structure of the tapping section. Learn the Chord Progressions: Focus on the chord progressions used in the solo to build a solid foundation. Slow Down the Tempo: Use a metronome to learn the tapping at a comfortable speed before gradually increasing the tempo. Practice Tapping on E String: Focus on mastering tapping on the high E string, one note at a time, before moving on to longer patterns. Combine Tapping with Legato: Incorporate legato technique in between tapped notes to create the smooth transitions characteristic of the solo. Consistent Practice: Dedicate time to practice every day to see improvements and build muscle memory.

Additional Resources for Beginners

While Stand By Him by Ghost is a great starting point, there are several other songs and resources that can help beginners develop their tapping technique:

"Dust in the Wind" by Kansas: This song features a simple tapping solo that is easy to pick up and play. Online Tutorials and Exercises: Websites like offer step-by-step guides and exercises for beginners. YouTube Videos: Many guitar instructors share tutorials and breakdowns of popular tapping solos, which can be incredibly helpful for visual learners.

Conclusion

Mastering the tapping technique on guitar is not only a rewarding skill but also a gateway to more complex and diverse playing styles. By starting with the middle solo of Stand By Him by Ghost and following a structured practice routine, beginners can build a strong foundation and gradually advance to more challenging material. Whether you're a budding guitarist or an experienced musician looking to refine your technique, tapping offers endless possibilities for creative expression on the guitar.