Quick Licks - Zakk Wylde: Unleashing High-Octane Guitar Techniques

"Quick Licks - Zakk Wylde" is an intensive guitar lesson series taught by Andy James, dedicated to the high-energy and aggressive playing style of one of metal's most iconic guitarists. This series specifically focuses on techniques that are quintessential to Zakk Wylde's sound: fast rock licks, vibrato, pinch harmonics, and alternate picking. Designed for guitarists looking to infuse their playing with Wylde's signature blend of intensity and technical prowess, these lessons offer a deep dive into each technique, complete with practical applications.

What You Will Learn In This Course

35 killer rock licks in the style of Zakk Wylde. This course also includes a backing track to play over. The techniques you will learn include:

• Fast Rock Licks
• Vibrato
• Pinch Harmonics
• Alternate Picking

Technique Breakdown

Fast Rock Licks

Fast rock licks form the backbone of Zakk Wylde's guitar style, known for their speed, aggression, and precision. These lessons break down Wylde's approach to crafting these high-velocity licks, focusing on scale patterns, picking techniques, and how to build speed while maintaining clarity and accuracy. You'll learn how to execute rapid-fire licks that are a staple in hard rock and metal genres, enhancing your ability to play fast without sacrificing musicality.

Vibrato

Vibrato is a key element in adding expression and depth to your guitar playing. Wylde's use of wide, intense vibrato gives his notes a unique vocal quality. This series teaches you how to control the speed and breadth of your vibrato, ensuring each note resonates with the intended emotional impact. Mastering this technique will add a new level of expressiveness to your playing.

Pinch Harmonics

Pinch harmonics, often referred to as ‘squeals,’ are a trademark of Wylde's sound. These lessons guide you through the technique of creating these high-pitched, screaming harmonics, emphasizing the precise picking and thumb technique required. Learning how to consistently produce pinch harmonics will allow you to add an aggressive, cutting edge to your solos and riffs.

Alternate Picking

Alternate picking is essential for playing fast and rhythmically precise licks. This technique, which involves alternating downstrokes and upstrokes, is a cornerstone of Wylde’s playing style. The lessons focus on developing a consistent alternate picking technique, enabling you to tackle fast passages with efficiency and fluidity. This skill is crucial for playing intricate licks and solos at high speeds.

Practicing Over a Backing Track: Contextual Application

Each technique and lick is practiced over a backing track, providing essential context for your learning. This approach helps you understand how to apply these techniques in a musical setting, improving your timing, rhythmic feel, and ability to adapt to different song structures. Practicing with backing tracks also enhances your improvisational skills, preparing you for live performance scenarios.

Zakk Wylde’s Guitar Style

Zakk Wylde, known for his work with Ozzy Osbourne and Black Label Society, is celebrated for his ferocious playing style that combines technical skill with raw power. His playing is characterized by blistering solos, heavy riffs, and an aggressive approach to guitar. By studying Wylde's style, you'll learn not just the techniques but also how to infuse your playing with a similar level of intensity and emotion.

The Benefits of Learning These Techniques

Learning these techniques will empower you to:

• Develop the ability to play fast rock licks with precision.
• Enhance the expressiveness of your playing with powerful vibrato.
• Add a distinct edge to your solos with pinch harmonics.
• Improve your picking efficiency with alternate picking.

Guitar Techniques Used in "Quick Licks - Zakk Wylde"

Upon completing the "Quick Licks - Zakk Wylde" series, your skills will be enhanced in the following techniques:

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Double Stop Bends
• Unison Bends
• Pinched Harmonics
• Trills
• Tremolo Picking
• Harmonics
• Pull-offs
• Two-Handed Tapping
• Rakes
• Pre-Bends
• Hammer-ons
• Double Stops
• Slides
• Sustain
• String Bending
• Bluesy Bends

"Quick Licks - Zakk Wylde" is an essential course for any guitarist aiming to master the art of metal guitar. These lessons provide the tools and insights needed to elevate your playing to the high-energy, intense level synonymous with one of metal's greatest guitarists.