Master of Puppets – Metallica

Licklibrary presents an in-depth note-for-note guitar lesson of one of the most iconic metal tracks of all time — "Master of Puppets" by Metallica. Widely regarded as a benchmark in heavy metal songwriting and guitar technique, this lesson breaks down every riff, rhythm, and solo section, allowing players to gain the same precision, speed, and aggression that defined Metallica's golden era.

This tutorial is tailored to help guitarists not only master the song itself but also develop and refine a wide variety of essential metal guitar techniques. With detailed breakdowns and close-up instruction, this lesson is a must for players looking to enhance their technical abilities, rhythm accuracy, and lead playing vocabulary. Andy James breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Guitarists

“Master of Puppets” features the legendary guitar duo of James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett. Hetfield’s rhythm guitar work is often hailed as some of the tightest and most aggressive in metal history. His down-picked precision and machine-like consistency are a blueprint for aspiring rhythm players. On lead guitar, Kirk Hammett delivers a series of blistering solos that blend classical-inspired runs, expressive bends, and fast-paced picking with signature flair. Together, their playing created a defining sound for 1980s thrash metal and set a standard for generations of metal guitarists.

Techniques Covered in the Lesson

Galloping Rhythms

The signature driving force behind the main riffs of “Master of Puppets” lies in its aggressive galloping rhythms. This triplet-based picking pattern delivers a sense of relentless motion and power. Learning this technique enhances timing, coordination, and right-hand endurance—vital for any metal rhythm player.

Alternate Picking

Many of the rapid-fire passages in this song rely on precise alternate picking. Developing alternate picking allows players to increase speed and efficiency while maintaining articulation. It’s a cornerstone technique for clean and controlled playing, especially during fast, aggressive riffs.

Palm Muting

Used extensively by James Hetfield, palm muting provides the tight, chugging sound essential to the metal genre. Mastering palm muting helps players control dynamics and adds clarity and punch to rhythm parts.

Power Chords

Power chords dominate the harmonic structure of “Master of Puppets.” Learning how to use power chords effectively is essential for creating the heavy, full-bodied tone typical of thrash metal and rock music.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

Throughout the solos and fills, hammer-ons and pull-offs provide fluidity and speed. These techniques allow players to execute fast legato lines with minimal picking, developing dexterity and fretboard fluidity.

Slides

Slides are used both rhythmically and melodically in this track. They add movement and sustain between notes and help guitarists create seamless transitions and expressive phrasing.

Down Picking

Though not listed directly, one of the most famous elements of Hetfield’s playing is his relentless down picking. It’s a stamina-building discipline that sharpens accuracy and timing and is critical for achieving that signature Metallica crunch.

Dual Guitar Harmonies

In parts of the solo and bridge, dual guitar harmonies elevate the arrangement, showcasing melodic interplay between the lead and rhythm parts. Learning harmonised lead lines helps improve ear training, interval recognition, and ensemble playing.

Tremolo Picking

Some sections feature rapid-fire tremolo picking, a technique that adds tension and energy to lead lines. It’s great for building hand speed and control while contributing to the song's dramatic flair.

Trills

The solos occasionally use trills for added aggression and ornamentation. Practicing trills helps players build finger strength, independence, and speed.

Why Learn “Master of Puppets”?

This lesson is more than just learning a song—it’s a masterclass in metal guitar technique. By studying “Master of Puppets” with Licklibrary, players gain:

• Precision rhythm skills from some of the tightest riffing in metal history.
• Soloing techniques that combine speed, melody, and control.
• Improved stamina and accuracy, thanks to the relentless down-picking and fast alternate patterns.
• A solid grasp of timing and syncopation, critical to mastering fast-paced metal songs.
• Insight into iconic tone and phrasing, straight from two of metal’s most influential players.

Guitar Techniques in This Lesson

• Galloping Rhythms
• Alternate Picking
• Palm Muting
• Power Chords
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Slides
• Tremolo Picking
• Trills
• Dual Guitar Harmonies

By diving into this lesson, players can push their technique to new levels while learning one of metal’s greatest epics. Whether you're chasing Hetfield’s relentless rhythm or Hammett’s shredding finesse, Master of Puppets is a rite of passage for any serious guitarist.