Visualization is one of the most powerful skills you can use as a guitar player. It can help you even when you don't have a guitar on hand.
Best guitar books for beginner to advanced players
When you buy a book, you're tapping into what makes that particular author tick and their years of experience, all without having to go through the hassle of "maybe" being able to talk to that person and ask them questions in person. The value of books is really apparent when it comes to learning guitar.
Like any other subject though, it pays to know what books are great to begin with, so you learn the best stuff first. I've collected a list of some of my favorite guitar books, from beginner to advanced. These books focus on not only making you a better guitar player, but a better musician overall.
5 fun warm up exercises
It is crucial to warm your hands up before you play a show or get into your full practice routine (this can be on your own, or during a guitar lesson). I liken it to a runner stretching before they go out, so they don't get hurt.
Doing these warm up exercises gets your hands ready for the rest of the awesomeness that you're about to get into.
How to do pinch harmonics like Zakk Wylde & Dimebag
One of Zakk's signature techniques is the pinch harmonic. Listen to any of Zakk's heavier playing, including his take on Crazy Train, and you'll hear this fun sound. You might've also heard it while listening to Dimebag Darell of Pantera. Zakk and Dime were good friends, so it makes sense that their styles influenced each other.
Countless students have asked me how to do pinch harmonics that I decided to write this post on exactly how to pull it off, with an easy step by step guide, and a few photos for reference.
Get better at guitar by learning cover songs
Free guitar strings
I'm currently running a contest on Twitter, and the winner gets a pack of their favorite guitar strings. Go check it out to see how to enter!
If you missed out on the contest, don't worry. Very soon I'll be running an entire contest week! It'd be a good idea to sign up for the Six String Sunday newsletter to find out when that'll be and what I'll be giving away.
Thanks for reading!
What to do when you don't feel like playing guitar
A friend recently told me that they couldn't find the motivation to play guitar. This can happen with anything you're passionate about, and thankfully there are a few ways to get out of a funk - you just have to be a little creative. Don't worry, because this affects many players and this advice can be used in a lot of areas of your life.