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 finger patterns or 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 using them in ways that sound 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 expressing yourself through the guitar.

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

If you’re ready to go deeper into building solos that flow, tell a story, and sound uniquely yours, my Lead Guitar Apprentice course inside the Academy is the next step.

And suppose you already have the basics down and want to dive into phrasing, tone, and advanced melodic concepts, you’ll love the Melodic Soloist course. In that case, it’s all about playing leads that sound professional and emotional.

Both are included in your Jason Stallworth Guitar Academy membership. 

💬 “I tried another course that was all campfire chords—not my thing. Jason’s lessons had me playing real metal riffs within weeks. 100% best decision I’ve made.” — Dustan K.