Guitar tapping is an exciting technique that adds flair and versatility to your playing. Tapping involves using both hands to create intricate and melodic sounds on the guitar fretboard. While initially popularized by guitar virtuosos like Eddie Van Halen and Steve Vai, tapping has since been adopted by musicians across various genres, from rock and metal to jazz and fusion. Mastering this technique requires practice, precision, and an understanding of the fundamental exercises that build a solid tapping foundation. In this lesson, we will explore five essential guitar tapping exercises for beginners.

Exercise 1 – Diamond Head – Am i evil

Diamond Head’s “Am I Evil” is an iconic heavy metal anthem, known for its thunderous riffs and powerful vocal performance. The song’s dark and captivating atmosphere has solidified it as a timeless classic in the metal genre. Exercise 1 is from this Track. There is a tapping used in this song that is very basic and easy to learn and this will give you idea about how tapping works.

Listen the audio:

And here is the tab:

Exercise 2 – Iron Miaden – Paschendale

Iron Maiden’s “Paschendale” is an epic and haunting masterpiece that takes listeners on a vivid journey through the horrors of World War I. With its sweeping melodies, intricate guitar work, and emotionally charged lyrics, the song captures the tragedy and sacrifice of soldiers on the battlefield, leaving an indelible impact on all who hear it.

Listen the audio:

Here is the tab:

Exercise 3 – Daft Punk – Aerodynamic

Daft Punk’s “Aerodynamic” is a dynamic electronic track that showcases the duo’s signature blend of catchy melodies and infectious beats. This particular guitar tapping used quite a few times in the song.

Liste to the audio here:

Here is the tab:

Exercise 4 – Metallica – One

Metallica’s “One” is a powerful and emotionally charged metal masterpiece. With its crushing riffs, blistering solos, and poignant lyrics, the song explores the harrowing experiences of a wounded soldier trapped in a state of paralysis and despair. The tapping technique in “One” serves as a powerful tool to convey the emotional intensity and chaotic nature of the song’s subject matter. It exemplifies how guitar tapping can be harnessed to create intricate, expressive, and captivating moments in metal music.

Listen the audio here:

Here is the tab:

Exercise 5 – Atreyu – Lipgloss and black

Atreyu’s “Lipgloss and Black” is a dynamic and energetic metalcore anthem that showcases the band’s unique blend of heavy riffs, melodic hooks, and intense vocals. The song features intricate guitar work, including sections where guitar tapping is employed to add flair and technicality to the music. During the song’s blistering guitar solos, the band incorporates tapping techniques to create fast and intricate patterns that seamlessly weave into the song’s aggressive and driving sound.

Here is the audio:

Here is the tab:

Also check:

How to be great in Guitar Tapping – 5 exercises for advance player