Mastering Country Guitar: Essential Tabs and Techniques

The Popularity of Country Guitar Tabs

Country music remains a beloved genre, and learning to play country guitar is a popular pursuit among guitarists. The genre's unique techniques, such as fingerstyle, chicken pickin', and hybrid picking, offer a rich tapestry of sounds that express the heartfelt emotions of country music.

Techniques in Country Guitar

• Fingerstyle: This technique involves plucking the strings directly with the fingertips, nails, or picks attached to fingers.
• Chicken Pickin': A staccato style of playing that combines pick and finger techniques to create a percussive sound.
• Hybrid Picking: Using a pick and fingers simultaneously to play different strings.

Essential Resources for Country Guitar Tabs

"Country Licks For Guitar"

For those looking to delve deep into the world of country guitar, "Country Licks For Guitar" is an invaluable resource. This book and CD set features tabs from legends like Scotty Moore, Albert Lee, Chet Atkins, and James Burton. The licks are demonstrated at both normal and slow speeds, making it easier to grasp the nuances of each technique. This set is ideal for intermediate to advanced players, offering insights into theory, phrasing, and fingerings.

"Country Guitar Bible"

If you're seeking a comprehensive collection of classic country songs, the "Country Guitar Bible" is a must-have. This book includes tabs for 35 iconic tracks such as:

• "Ain't Goin' Down ('Til the Sun Comes Up)"
• "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain"
• "Boot Scootin' Boogie"
• "Friends in Low Places"
• "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry"
• "Wildwood Flower"

While beginners might find the arrangements challenging, intermediate players will find these tabs both enjoyable and educational.

"CMT's 100 Greatest Country Songs: Easy Guitar with Standard Notation and Tab"

For those who want a vast collection of country favorites, "CMT's 100 Greatest Country Songs" is an excellent choice. This book features easy guitar tabs and standard notation for a wide range of songs, including:

• "Act Naturally"
• "Always on My Mind"
• "Amazed"
• "Coal Miner's Daughter"
• "Crazy"
• "Folsom Prison Blues"
• "Hey, Good Lookin'"
• "Stand by Your Man"
• "Take Me Home, Country Roads"
• "You Are My Sunshine"

This collection is perfect for guitarists who prefer to strum along while singing, offering a mix of old and new country classics.

Interesting Stats About Country Music and Guitar Playing

• Country Music Popularity: According to the Country Music Association, country music is the most listened-to radio format in the United States, reaching over 97 million adults weekly (CMA).
• Guitar Playing Trends: A 2020 survey by Fender revealed that 16 million Americans picked up the guitar during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a significant portion showing interest in country music (Fender).

Conclusion

Whether you're an aspiring guitarist or a seasoned player, these resources will help you master the art of country guitar. From learning iconic licks to strumming along to timeless classics, these books offer a wealth of knowledge and enjoyment. Dive into the world of country guitar and let the music guide your journey.

By exploring these resources and techniques, you'll be well on your way to becoming proficient in country guitar. Happy playing!