Slap
Licks
By
Matt Hale
Ex.1
Slap. In this lesson we explore a technique that
isn’t widely accepted by guitarists. That’s right… slapping.
First, the notation… S= a slap, likewise a (P)= a pop, with
the first finger, and finally the ever popular x signifies a dead
note. To perform a "proper" slap (note I use the term
proper very loosely, find what works for you) your thumb should
be perpendicular to the strings, NOT parallel. Hit the string
near the end of the fingerboard with the joint of your thumb.
To perform a "pop" simply use your first finger to grip
the string from underneath, pull it and then release it. It should
snap againist the fingerboard, and congrats you have a "pop."
As for dead notes, simply allow your fretting hand to mute the
string where indicated and strike it exactly as you would a fretted
note.
Ex.2
This example is a bit more difficult if you are
unfamiliar to slapping so take it slow. The same notation rules
apply here, but one new symbol has been added. LH refers to a
left hand slap… To perform a left hand slap simply mute all
of your strings with the first finger of your left hand. Then
with your second, third, or both fingers of the left hand forcefully
hammer onto the muted strings. The sound should be short and should
resemble the sound of a right hand slap. If you hear a harmonic,
fret buzz, or open note adjust the first finger to better mute
the strings.
