Pickup Music Articles

Looking for riff inspiration? Look no further with these 53 jazz guitar riffs and licks. Whether you're in an improvisation rut or just looking for some new choices to sonically explore, we've got you covered.

Looking for a clear way to learn Jazz? Sam Blakelock and Cecil Alexander's 90 day method for those who want to learn how to play jazz but always feel intimidated.

This complete guide to jazz chords for guitar will give you not only the charts but the context to use each chord. If you are looking for a jazz guitar overview via chords, this is for you.

We're breaking down several key elements Jazz guitar often revolves around regardless of the player's level. From the understanding of basic music theory concepts such as scales, chords, harmony, and rhythm, to transcription and improvisation. We've got you covered.

Take your playing to the next level with all the must know intermediate guitar chords

Do you want to be able to pick up a guitar and immediately bust out a song? Get a jump on harmonic context by learning these common chords. Adding to your toolkit these progressions will open up the door to many songs and styles.

The sus chord is a universal device that makes its way into many songs across multiple genres. Whether your interested in learning about sus chords from coming across on in a song you're learning or looking for more context of how to implement this chord in your own songwriting, knowing more about the sus chord can add depth and interest to your musical toolkit.

Have you ever wondered if online guitar lessons are worth it? Whether you're learning in a group setting in person or online different scenarios may work in your favor. Explore which one might be for you!

In a world that predominantly caters to the right-handed, lefty guitarists can sometimes feel like outsiders. Thankfully, music is full of outsiders – often turning their supposed disadvantages into a signature style.

How to use a capo and amp up your guitar playing. Learn the ins and outs of the basics of using a capo.

Not sure about what lesson type fits you best? In this article, we compare learning guitar by online guitar lessons or by YouTube tutorials.

Immerse yourself in the expressive world of guitar bends and vibrato in this article, as we guide you through the nuanced art of how to bend notes and adding that signature vibrato to your melodies.

Elevate your practice with our definitive guide to guitar backing tracks. Dive into the world of rhythm, melody, and improvisation as we unveil the secrets of using backing tracks to enhance your playing.

Discover the art of hammer-ons and pull-offs. This guide is your key to unlocking the seamless, fluid transitions that define expert guitarists. Learn the mechanics of these techniques, as well as practical tips on incorporating them into your playing.

Legendary funk guitarist, Cory Wong, talks to us about his journey as a musician and how he stays on top of his technique with a solid practice routine.

Unleash the soulful, expressive power of sliding on the guitar with this guide as we break down the techniques and nuances of slides. From choosing the right finger to understanding the different slide types, we'll equip you with the skills to infuse your playing with that signature slide magic.

Guitarist and producer, Beau Diakowicz, talks to us about his musical background and gives some advice on how to develop your own style.

In the age of digital learning, guitarists have the choice between online lessons and traditional books. Our blog article compares the pros and cons of both worlds, exploring the interactive nature of online tutorials versus the timeless appeal of comprehensive guitar books.

Become empowered by this blog article which unveils practical strategies, resources, and effective learning techniques to master the guitar on your own terms, in your own time.

Nicholas Veinoglou, AKA The Donut Doctor talks to us about his biggest influences and shares his best advice for guitarists.

Tailored for those picking up the guitar for the first time, we'll introduce you to five foundational scales. This guide breaks down some of the most important scales with simplicity and clarity.

Explore the soulful world of slide guitar as we walk you through the art of sliding, from choosing the right slide to mastering expressive techniques. Learn how to create that signature bluesy wail and infuse your playing with a touch of slide magic.

Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, dive into the world of guitar picks with our expert insights and practical tips to discover how the right pick can transform your playing experience.

Guitarist and composer, Plini, talks to us about his musical background and gives some advice for aspiring musicians on how to practice.

Ready to level up your guitar playing? Perfect for beginners, our blog article is your go-to guide for mastering bar chords. From the basics of the technique to understanding those versatile shapes, we'll walk you through step by step.

Perfect for beginners, this guide offers simple explanations and visual aids to demystify guitar chord diagrams. We'll take you through the lines, dots, and circles, making it super easy to learn how to play your favorite chords.

Unlock the secrets of the Locrian mode with our step-by-step blog article tailored for guitarists. Journey through the theory, scale patterns, and practical applications of this intriguing mode known for its unique, mysterious sound.

Enter the heart of musical alchemy as we unravel the mechanics of how guitar chords work. This comprehensive guide is a key to understanding the reationship between notes, finger positions, and chord progressions.

These five easy Christmas songs for beginner guitarists are perfect for getting in the holiday spirit this winter. In addition to making you look like a star at your next Christmas party, these easy acoustic Christmas songs will help you learn how to play lush chord melodies on guitar.

This guide will take you through the theory, scale patterns, and practical applications of the Ionian scale, known for its bright and cheerful sound, and ability to craft memorable melodies with your guitar.

Discover the beauty of the Aeolian scale, known for its soulful and haunting sound. Whether you're a novice guitarist or an experienced player looking to add depth to your solos, this article offers step-by-step instructions and practical exercises to help you master the Aeolian scale.

Explore the captivating Lydian scale on the guitar as we guide you through the theory and fingerings of this enchanting scale, known for its bright and dreamy sound.

Dive into the heart and soul of blues guitar with this guide to unlocking the expressive power of the blues scale on the guitar. We'll break down the scale patterns, fingerings, and show you how to incorporate the iconic blues scale into your playing.

Unlock the secrets to guitar speed and precision with this comprehensive guide to playing fatser and breaking through speed barriers. We'll provide practical tips, exercises, and insights to help you play faster and cleaner.

This article unravels the theory, scale patterns, and practical applications of the Dorian mode in your guitar playing. Let the mesmerising sound of the Dorian mode expand your creative horizons!

This is our beginner's guide to the iconic 12-bar blues progression. We'll break down the structure, chord changes, and rhythmic magic that is the foundation of countless blues classics.

This comprehensive guide will break down the theory behind the Phrygian mode, its distinctive character, and practical applications in your playing, from crafting solos to creating intense and captivating chord progressions.

This guide is your essential roadmap for transitioning your six-string skills to the four-string bass. You'll learn how to adapt your technique, embrace the groove, and understand the unique role of the bass in a band.

We'll explore the captivating sound of the Mixolydian mode in this blog article, specially crafted for guitarists seeking to expand their improvisational prowess in jazz, blues, neo soul and more!

In this blog article, we unravel the secrets behind the captivating and versatile nature of 7th chords, explaining their composition and unique characteristics, and how they are used in Blues, Jazz, Neo Soul, and R&B.

Explore five meticulously crafted exercises designed to elevate your fingerpicking technique, helping you navigate intricate melodies and complex patterns with ease.

Explore the exciting world of shell chords in this blog article where we unravel the essence and significance of how these interesting chord shapes are used in jazz guitar.

Enter the sultry world of R&B guitar with this comprehensive blog article, where we unveil the ten must-know techniques that will raise your R&B playing to the next level.

Discover the art of home recording as we guide you through the must-have tools and knowledge needed to capture your guitar's magic from the comfort of your own space. Our blog article reveals the essential equipment, software, and recording techniques that every aspiring home guitarist should know.

Join us on a soulful musical journey as we dive into the world of neo-soul guitar and celebrate some of the most exceptional and unforgettable performances, this blog article is a tribute to the guitarists who have shaped the neo-soul genre.

Join us on a musical journey as we break down the art of guitar soloing into five levels, catering to players of all skill levels, whether you're a beginner learning your first licks or an advanced guitarist aiming to refine your improvisational prowess!

This comprehensive guide provides insights, fingerings, and practical tips to help you navigate the world of jazz guitar, with the essential jazz guitar scales every aspiring player should master.

In this blog article, we'll delve into the soulful world of blues guitar, where we join the elusive quest for the perfect blues tone. Uncover the secrets behind achieving the rich, expressive sound that defines this genre.

Journey through time with our compelling blog article as we unravel the electrifying story behind the iconic electric guitar. From its humble beginnings in the early 20th century to becoming the soul of modern music.

Join us on a sonic adventure in this blog article that uncovers the transformative world of alternate tunings for guitarists. We'll discuss seven compelling reasons why experimenting with alternate tunings can breathe new life into your playing.

Dive into the intriguing interplay between music theory and creative expression with this thought-provoking blog article. Look beyond the surface to uncover how a solid understanding of music theory can increase your artistic creativity.

Start your guitar journey with confidence with this insightful blog article that introduces beginners to the foundational world of guitar chords. Discover the fundamental building blocks that underpin countless songs across different genres, as we demystify the art of chord playing.

Step into the world of jazz guitar with our comprehensive blog article, where we present a structured roadmap to mastering jazz standards. Uncover the secrets to navigating complex chord progressions, improvising with finesse, and capturing the soulful essence of this timeless genre.

Embark on a journey of musical discovery with our insightful blog article focusing on ear training exercises designed specifically for guitarists. Unlock the power to identify chords, melodies, and progressions by ear, enhancing your improvisational skills and musical intuition.

Navigate the age-old debate of guitar tablature (tab) versus traditional sheet music with our comprehensive blog article. Whether you're a guitarist aiming for precision or a music enthusiast seeking to understand notation better, this guide breaks down the differences, advantages, and nuances of both formats.

Elevate your guitar skills and groove like a true funk maestro with our latest blog article. Unveil the secrets of playing funkier than ever before as we delve into five essential techniques guaranteed to make your guitar lines irresistibly funky.

Delve into the heart of melodious guitar playing in this blog article dedicated to the major pentatonic scale. Perfect for guitarists of all levels, this guide unravels the secrets behind the major pentatonic scale, a cornerstone of countless iconic melodies across different genres, in particularly the Blues.

Uncover the captivating art of hybrid picking in our latest blog article designed for guitarists seeking to elevate their playing to the next level. Learn how to blend the best of both worlds by effortlessly integrating the pick with your fingers..

Elevate your guitar playing to new heights with our comprehensive blog article on creating your dream pedalboard setup. Explore the essential components, from choosing the right pedal types to understanding signal flow and order.

This blog article is a step-by-step guide for guitarists eager to explore the magic of the minor pentatonic scale. Dive into the theory behind this versatile scale, understanding its intervals and how it's applicable in various musical contexts.

In this blog article, we delve into the essential techniques and strategies to memorize notes on the guitar fretboard effectively, whether you're a beginner or an intermediate player.

Discover how influential musicians like D'Angelo, Erykah Badu, and Lauryn Hill crafted a fresh sound, blending soulful melodies with elements of hip-hop and jazz. Dive into the cultural impact of Neo Soul and how it continues to inspire a new generation of artists.

Dive into the captivating world of funk guitar with our comprehensive guide tailored for beginners. This blog article explores the fundamentals of funk guitar, including essential techniques, rhythmic patterns, and iconic chord progressions.

In this blog article, we'll go over some key methods to ensure you don't waste any time in the early stages of your guitar journey! We all want to improve as quick as possible, and with this simple guidance, we'll show you how.

In this article, we'll introduce you to the awesome world of power chords! We'll look at some useful exercises to get you playing power chords right away, and to show you how versatile they can be as a tool for all guitarists.

If you're feeling stuck in your guitar-playing journey, then our latest blog post is here to help you overcome that frustrating plateau. Discover the effective strategies, expert advice, and practical tips needed to break through the barriers holding you back.

In our latest blog post, we dive into the fascinating world of playing guitar by ear. Discover how to develop your musical intuition and break free from just using sheet music or tabs, and gain a better ear for melodies, chords, and solos.

Becoming a skilled guitarist requires a disciplined practice and a strategic approach to learning. In this blog article, we explore the five most impactful practice methods for guitar that will help you elevate your skills to new heights.

Whether you're a beginner, intermediate, or advanced guitarist, recognizing where you stand can guide your practice, set achievable goals, and unlock new horizons. In this article, we will delve into the key aspects that can help you determine your current skill level.

In this informative article, we delve into the essential knowledge required to confidently change guitar strings in 5 simple steps, something that every guitarist should be able to do.

Songwriting on the guitar is a captivating and deeply personal craft. This article delves into the intricacies of this creative process, exploring the techniques you can use to start your songwriting journey.

As an intermediate guitarist, it's crucial to be aware of common mistakes that can impede your progress. In this article, we'll highlight five key errors to steer clear of, helping you to further develop your skills and advance as a musician.

Discover the secrets of guitar modes in this detailed article, from understanding the theory behind modes to practical techniques for mastering each one and its unique sound, you'll unlock a world of musical versatility.

Discover practical techniques and practice strategies in this article to improve your chord changing abilities on the guitar. Learn how to master fundamental chords, develop finger dexterity, and increase speed and accuracy for seamless transitions between chords.

This article unveils the common pitfalls guitarists encounter, that can slow down progress. It identifies seven mistakes that hinder growth and proficiency in playing the guitar, such as improper technique and lack of structured practice.

Discover the hidden gems of country music for guitarists in this informative blog post! This treasure trove of slick licks and twiddly tricks will captivate you and help you uncover the power of country guitar scales, pedal-steel bends, and chicken pickin'!

Learn the fundamentals of how to build great picking technique, with some exercises to help get there quicker, and how expanding your abilities with picking styles can open up your versatility as a guitarist.

Level up your guitar skills with the perfect practice routine. Our expert tips help you balance technique drills, theory exploration, and creative jam sessions. Ignite your passion and unlock your full potential. Don't miss this transformative guide to revolutionize your playing.

Take a brief journey through the history of jazz guitar by examining a selection of the genre's most iconic players, and analysing the techniques they used to differentiate themselves and carve out their unique musical identity.

Transform your guitar solos from boring to unforgettable with these 7 expert tips. Learn how to create stunning solos on guitar with techniques like phrasing, dynamics, and more.

Books?! Well, if you got your Pickup Music subscription go ahead and check out the jazz learning pathway. If you want to have an old school learning experience - Start reading.

In this article, we’ll discuss what makes iconic rock guitarists sound the way they do, and look at a few techniques to get us closer to replicating their individual styles.

This article will teach you one of the easiest approaches to learn how to solo on guitar: using the CAGED system to navigate your fretboard. It takes time to develop your ear and play what you hear in your head. You’ll get a lot closer to that goal when you take advantage of the CAGED system for soloing.

In this article, we'll explore the top 5 reasons why learning neo soul guitar is a great idea and what makes this genre so unique and captivating. 

In this article, we will show you the 10 best guitar solos ever! No question. No debate. These are the best.

You’re jamming with your band, having a great time. All of a sudden heads start to shake – and not in a good way. You look up and see faces staring back at you, as though there’s a bad smell coming from your direction. 

Slash chords have been used by artists in all genres, so regardless of your style, they’ll be valuable for you. After reading this, you’ll know what slash chords are, why we use them, and how to make better music with them.

The style and sound of rock music has branched out into many subgenres since the 60s, but the essence of rock guitar has remained the same. Whether classic or modern, the power chords, pentatonic licks, and distorted tones are still at the core of any rock guitarist's sound.

An amplifier is the most important piece of equipment for shaping the overall sound of your guitar, so why don’t we give them the attention they deserve?

Looking for the best guitar strings? Our comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about guitar strings, including material, gauge, and brand recommendations. Improve your tone and playability today!

Learn how to master triad shapes on the guitar by applying the CAGED system and CAGED system shapes. Increase your understanding of the fretboard and boost your playing flexibility.

Exciting things can happen when you experiment with different sounds. Neo soul is a prime example of how blending genres can create something unique and exciting. With a healthy mix of soul, R&B, jazz, blues, funk, and even hip hop, neo soul gives anyone the opportunity to join in get those creative juices flowing!

If you’re new to learning guitar or are planning to start, you may be asking yourself – should I get in-person instruction or take online guitar lessons? It’s important to know that there’s no right or wrong way to study guitar – it all depends on your personal preferences and goals.

Learning jazz guitar may seem like a daunting task, and while it’s true that jazz can be very complex, it doesn’t have to be. You can create a jazzy tone and quality simply by adding one note to the basic chords you already know.

In this article we will show you what it needs to become a touring guitarist.

You can trace the roots of most modern music back to the blues. For this reason, learning how to play blues guitar chords will help you quickly learn other styles of guitar. Blues chords lay a fantastic foundation for so many other styles. Plus, these chords are super fun to play! In this article, we’ll cover the basics of blues and the 9 most important chords. 

Improving your guitar skills takes time, dedication, and the right approach. Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned player looking to take your skills to the next level. This post shows you 8 ways to improve your guitar skills!

In this article we will go through common reasons many players plateau in their playing and how you can overcome it and start improving again.

Have you decided to learn how to play guitar? Congratulations! Guitar is a wonderful and versatile instrument that you can use in any genre or style you want. The guitar has a role in all kinds of music: rock, metal, pop, jazz, blues, country, orchestra, pop − you name it!

You may be debating whether to learn how to play the electric or acoustic guitar first. We will discuss all of the similarities and differences between the two here. We'll talk about the benefits and disadvantages of each, the hurdles of learning one over the other, and what to expect from either of them as a beginner.