Wipe Out – The Ventures
“Wipe Out” by The Ventures is one of the most iconic surf rock instrumentals of all time, known for its relentless energy, unforgettable drum intro, and explosive guitar work. At LickLibrary, our note-for-note guitar lesson for “Wipe Out” dives deep into the techniques that made this track a cornerstone of 1960s rock guitar playing. This is more than just a surf rock anthem — it’s a masterclass in rhythmic precision, picking accuracy, and melodic phrasing. If you're looking to sharpen your chops while learning a legendary track, this is the perfect lesson for you. Lee Hodgson breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.
Guitar Techniques in “Wipe Out”
Learning "Wipe Out" is a brilliant way to enhance your command over several core guitar techniques. Our lesson breaks down every lick, riff, and phrase, highlighting the unique guitar stylings that define this instrumental classic. Here are the key techniques explored in this lesson:
Alternate Picking
A defining aspect of “Wipe Out” is the fast, articulate lead lines that rely heavily on alternate picking. This technique involves alternating downstrokes and upstrokes, allowing you to play notes at high speed with precision and control.
Why it matters: Mastering alternate picking improves your picking efficiency, enhances speed, and makes complex passages more manageable. It’s a foundational skill for lead guitarists across all genres.
Slides
“Wipe Out” features numerous melodic slides, which give the lead lines their fluid, wave-like surf sound. Sliding from one note to another not only sounds expressive but also links phrases in a smooth, cohesive way.
Why it matters: Slides add emotion and articulation to your playing. They also help you develop finger strength and control across the fretboard.
Pull-Offs
Throughout the solos, pull-offs are used to add a dynamic flow to fast-paced licks. This legato technique allows notes to be played without re-picking, adding speed and fluidity to phrases.
Why it matters: Practicing pull-offs strengthens your fretting hand and is essential for playing quick, flowing lines without excess picking effort.
Hammer-Ons
Often paired with pull-offs, hammer-ons are utilised in melodic runs to smoothly ascend notes on the same string.
Why it matters: Hammer-ons help build legato technique, enhancing fluidity and making your playing more expressive and effortless.
Tremolo Picking
A staple of surf guitar, tremolo picking plays a central role in “Wipe Out.” This involves rapidly picking a single note to create a sustained, fluttering effect.
Why it matters: Tremolo picking builds endurance and right-hand control. It’s key for surf rock, metal, and other high-energy styles.
Open String Riffs
The song utilises catchy open string riffs to create a punchy, resonant sound that cuts through the mix.
Why it matters: Mastering open string riffs improves coordination between fretted and unfretted notes, helping you create fuller, more rhythmic parts without relying solely on chords.
About the Guitar Players
Although “Wipe Out” was originally recorded by The Surfaris, the version by The Ventures became a definitive surf rock staple. The Ventures, featuring guitarists Don Wilson and Nokie Edwards, were instrumental in popularising instrumental rock and surf music during the 1960s. Nokie Edwards, in particular, is revered for his innovative tone and technical skill, often blending country, jazz, and rock influences in a seamless style.
Nokie Edwards' influence on modern guitarists spans generations. His approach to melody, timing, and tone helped shape surf rock and even influenced early psychedelic and rock’n’roll players. His fluid picking and tight phrasing are on full display in “Wipe Out,” making this a must-learn piece for any serious student of guitar history.
Why Learn “Wipe Out”?
Whether you’re into surf rock, instrumental guitar, or just want a fun and challenging piece to tighten up your technique, “Wipe Out” delivers. You’ll walk away with:
- Better right-hand picking accuracy
- Improved legato phrasing
- Greater control of expressive articulation
- Enhanced timing and rhythm awareness
Our in-depth video lesson will guide you step by step, with slowed-down sections, breakdowns, and jam tracks to help you lock in the feel and master each part of the song.
Techniques Used in “Wipe Out”
Explore the lesson at LickLibrary today and bring the vintage surf guitar sound of “Wipe Out” to life on your own fretboard!
About The Tutor
Tutor Profile
Lee Hodgson
"Lee's contribution here at LickLibrary is a masterclass in classic guitar playing, from Hank Marvin to Simon & Garfunkel, but that certainly isn't the limit of his skills. In reality, Lee is one of the most technically able country guitar players we've ever seen, in fact his book ""Hot Country""...