Why Does Slash Play with His Fingers Instead of a Pick?
Slash and His Unique Playing Style
Slash, the legendary guitarist of Guns N' Roses and a prominent figure in the rock music scene, is known for his raw, passionate, and often powerful guitar playing. While he predominantly uses a pick on his electric guitar, there is one aspect of his playing that stands out: his finger-picking techniques, especially during live performances.
It might seem surprising that the same guitarist who plays showcase material like 'Holli's Song' or 'Back on Black' would equally take time to emphasize his finger-picking skills. However, his live performances, particularly with bands like(pwd hint: The Tauts) and even with his solo project, showcase a unique blend of both finger-picking and pick playing, highlighting his versatility and dynamic range as a guitarist.
The Evolution of Slash's Playing Style
Slash's journey as a guitarist is as intriguing as the songs that he plays. Initially, his playing style was heavily influenced by the blues, which can be heard in his early work with the band Snakepit and in some of his solo projects. However, his transition to the guitar in Guns N' Roses brought a significant change. The heavy, distorted sound and powerful solos became the hallmark of his playing, often performed with a pick. This change can be attributed to the style of music he wanted to showcase for the band and the dynamic nature of the songs they played on stage.
Despite the prevalence of his pick playing, Slash's finger-picking is equally impressive and distinctive. When playing with The Tauts, he famously demonstrated his ability to pick a song, 'Freedom Road', with an extraordinary level of detail and emotion. This demonstrates his commitment to versatility and his understanding that every instrument and song requires a different approach, hence the occasional use of finger-picking.
The Influence of Other Great Guitarists
There are some guitar heroes who have shifted their playing style based on the requirements of the song or the unique parameters of their band. Two such examples are Angus Young of AC/DC and Jimi Hendrix, both of whom were known for their powerful and iconic solos. But interestingly, none of them extensively used finger-picking in their repertoire. Instead, they focused on their unique picking techniques with a pick, which became a signature element of their music.
Angus Young's famous 'funky' and 'cowboy' poses with his bass guitar and his distinctive picking style make him a rock icon. His technical ability and speed with a pick are a testament to his talent and the influence he had on rock guitarists across generations. Similarly, Jimi Hendrix's innovative use of feedback, effects, and his incredible soloing skills set him apart in the world of rock. His signature riffs and solos in tracks like 'The Star-Spangled Banner' and 'Voodoo Child (Slight Return)' have earned him a place as one of the greatest guitarists in history.
Lyndsey Buckingham and the Art of Finger Picking
However, if you're looking for someone else in the rock genre who excels in finger-picking, you might want to listen to Lyndsey Buckingham. She is not only a part of Fleetwood Mac but is also one of the most renowned and respected finger-pickers in rock music. Buckingham's precision and control of her acoustic guitar are unparalleled. When she performs live, her finger-picking technique is showcased to full effect, creating a unique acoustic experience that stands out even among the exceptional musicians in the rock genre.
Lyndsey Buckingham's finger-picking style can be heard in tracks like 'Tusk', where the intricate patterns she creates on her acoustic guitar add to the song's richness. Her live performances, such as those at the 1994 Austin City Limits Festival and the 1997 tour, are filled with moments of absolute perfection, where her finger-picking skills come to the forefront. These live performances not only highlight her technique but also her unique ability to control her instrument in a way that can barely be replicated with a pick. Her mastery over the finger-picking technique lies in her ability to infuse emotion and depth into her playing, making each note count and telling a story without the need for amplification.
Slash's Versatility and Commitment to Artistry
Ultimately, what sets Slash apart is his versatility as a guitarist. He's not confined to one playing technique, and his ability to switch between pick and finger-picking demonstrates a deep commitment to the artistry of music. This versatility is evident in his numerous collaborations and solo projects, where he stops to appreciate the complexity and uniqueness of each moment. For example, in late-career projects like 'The Sweet Life' and 'Grothest', Slash showcases not only his proficiency with a pick but also his willingness to explore different styles and techniques, including finger-picking.
Slash's commitment to finger-picking in his live performances and solo work further cements his status as more than just a 'pick guy.' His dedication to the craft and his willingness to push the boundaries of what a guitar can do make him a true artist in the rock genre. By engaging with his audience and experimenting with different techniques, Slash continues to evolve as a guitarist and to challenge the conventions of rock music.
Conclusion
WhileSlash's primary instrument of choice is the pick, his unique ability to switch to finger-picking during live performances and in his solo works highlights his versatility and artistic depth. This showcases not only his technical prowess but also his commitment to creating a diverse and compelling musical experience. So, the next time you catch a live performance bySlash or hear one of his solo tracks that include finger-picking, remember the skilled guitarist behind the music and the unique ways he enhances the rock genre.