Those who want to learn to play guitar often think only of guitar heroes that play lead guitar. Rhythm guitar is often considered second best, if at all. This can be a mistake as rhythm playing can be the most fun and satisfying part of both acoustic and electric guitar.
Playing rhythm guitar is also a better way to be in demand as a guitar player. There are few rock bands that don’t rely on a rhythm guitar as part of their sound. The same is not the case for screaming guitar solos. So if you want to maximize your opportunities to play guitar in a band you would be well advised to build solid back up guitar skills. Here are the things you’ll need.
1. Learn as many chords as you can.
2. Learn different chord voicings for each chord.
3. Learn rhythm patterns and styles.
4. Develop your rhythm skills and timing by working with backing tracks.
* Learn As Many Chords As You Can
The basic ingredient of rhythm playing in and style of music is chords. Your first priority to learn how to play rhythm should be to learn as many chords as you can. You should learn both major and minor chords as well chord extensions.
* Learn Chord Voicings
A chord voicing is a particular way of playing the notes of the chords. For example, the root note can be played in the low bass strings or on the high strings.
Learn to play chord voicings so you can create varied and interesting accompaniments. In band situations you should learn how to play three note voicings, called triads, or two note chords, known as double stops. You use these to leave room for other musical instruments and the vocals in the band’s sound.
* Learn Rhythm Patterns
To make good use of your chord knowledge you should work on learning to play a variety of rhythm patterns. Work on developing good timing and keeping your place in the music. It’s essential that you keep a consistent groove to carry the music along. Pay attention to the drummer and the bassist and learn to work with them. A good way to develop your timing and learn to work with the drums and bass is to practice with backing tracks.
Here’s a wrap up of what you need to become a good rhythm guitar player.
1. Learn lots of chords, major, minor and extensions.
2. Learn different voicings for each chord, especially two and three note voicings to leave space.
3. Learn rhythm patterns and styles.
4. Practice with backing tracks to develop good timing.
Remember, rhythm guitar is one of the most fun and interesting ways to play guitar. You might not get so much attention as the lead guitar hero, but it is the best way to be in demand in your local music scene.
Ismail Mohd
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
how does a band become popular? what are the chances?
sadly where not going anywhere. so what are the chances of making it big? do you no any stories about a band that went from nothing to the next big thing? how does a band become popular what do they have to do?
Bands such as Green Day or Red Hot Chili Peppers made it big. i just wanna know how? i no being original is very important but how does a band get noticed? ive just joined a band and im 14 years old, i write the song and everyone else makes up there own thing, im there lead guitarist. my bands not going anywhere besides my garage and were having trouble picking a certain type of music to play.
Tons of musicians like you ask these questions. It took about 10 years for RHCP or Green Day to get noticed. Do your own thing and you just gotta wait for people to find you and like you.
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Try making a myspace or youtube and getting the word out
mine?: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=AoNEa9xNaKezp1y29pot0Dvu5nNG;_ylv=3?qid=20091121180138AAGWP7W
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well ive heard that yuo really have to push to get anywhere and you have to work very hard to get what you want. try booking gigs at places like fairs and things like that. try booking them everywhere possible and just keep working and working and trying ur best and maybe someday youll become famous
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im basically in the same boat as you our band just adds all of our types of music together but for gettin big i think the internet is a good way to start try making friends with other small bands like yours and complimenting them so they get into your bands music also if you can play live do it its really hard for bands now to play live
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my thoughts
OK.. You just need to keep making music. Keep your band together, Awsome Guitar Riffs, Lots of catchy choruses, and sometimes actually hearing the bass.
Also make yourself heard, Use myspace try to play in places make sure they remember you, hand out free cds and never stop premoting..Make yourself heavy.. No Boys Like Girls crap!! Nothing like that. Have an awesome sound and look. And most of all have patients..
Take Marilyn Manson as an example..
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Me. I love music.