Chapter 3: Metal Licks

Lead Guitar for Metal: Play Solos That Actually Sound Good and Fit the Rhythm

Let’s be real—playing fast is cool, but if your solos don’t sound good, none of that speed matters.

In this chapter of Metal Riffs and Licks, we’re shifting the focus to lead guitar. You’ll learn 7 metal licks designed to help you develop phrasing, feel, and control—not just speed for the sake of speed.

These licks blend technique with melody and help you start thinking of your solos as musical ideas, not just runs.

Here's what you’ll be working on:

• Vibrato that gives your notes life
• Bends that actually land in tune
• Slides that connect your phrases smoothly
• Hammer-ons and pull-offs for fluidity
• Tapping and speed picking for flair
• Sweep picking to add edge and drama

This chapter isn't just about learning a bunch of licks—it's about learning how to use them in a way that actually sounds like you.

Once you’ve got them under your fingers:

• Combine licks together to build mini solos
• Change the rhythm or note order
• Use different scales or try them in new keys

This is where your lead playing starts to take shape—and where you move from memorizing notes to actually expressing yourself through the guitar.

The best solos aren’t just fast—they tell a story. They make people feel something.

👉 When you're ready, continue to the final chapter in your Metal Riffs and Licks book:
Theory Made Simple – where I’ll show you how to use basic theory to write better riffs and solos without getting overwhelmed or stuck in your head.