Pick Slides

A guitar technique where the edge of the pick is dragged along the length of a string, creating a distinctive, abrasive sound.

Pick slides, also known as pick scrapes, are a popular technique in rock and metal genres, often used as a dramatic effect or to transition between different sections of a song. To execute a pick slide, the guitarist places the edge of the pick against a string, usually the lower E or A string, and applies pressure while sliding the pick along the string’s length. The resulting sound is a gritty, grinding noise that can add energy and intensity to a performance.

Although pick slides are relatively simple to perform, they require a firm grip on the pick and careful control of the pressure applied to the string to produce the desired sound. Incorporating pick slides into one’s playing can provide a dynamic and attention-grabbing element, contributing to the overall expressiveness and impact of a guitarist’s performance.