What Finally Made PINCH HARMONICS Click For Me (aka Artificial Harmonics/Squeals)

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  • Опубліковано 7 січ 2021
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    Struggled and struggled with Pinch Harmonics, and then bam! they finally made sense. Hope it helps you too.
    Check out all my lesson vids at: www.the-art-of-guitar.com
    Patreon: / theartofguitar
    Thanks!!!

КОМЕНТАРІ • 3 тис.

  • @ok-rn2un
    @ok-rn2un 3 роки тому +10640

    I love it when markiplier teaches me pinch harmonics

  • @coreoYEAH
    @coreoYEAH 3 роки тому +1211

    “Whoa! I just did it, sort of”
    Me, every time I’ve done anything on a guitar in the last 10 years.

    • @isetmfriendsofire
      @isetmfriendsofire 3 роки тому +46

      Followed by "Well, I guess that's all the practice I need"

    • @Hedonkeviik
      @Hedonkeviik 2 роки тому +8

      @@isetmfriendsofire get rid of that thought lol

    • @MrNeonx
      @MrNeonx 2 роки тому +2

      Hahahahahaha same

  • @theonetruemungdaalgamer725
    @theonetruemungdaalgamer725 2 роки тому +1304

    Markiplier literally just made my entire month by teaching pinch harmonics. Dude, you're a legend

  • @ZitiPatrol
    @ZitiPatrol 2 роки тому +386

    24 years playing guitar and never have i mastered it because most teachers just say "catch the string with the bottom of your thumb" and you made me so happy knowing it can be done with any part of the finger. Thank you.

    • @Larry821
      @Larry821 Рік тому +16

      Like many I learned it by accident. But my technique is different. Pinch the pick between thumb and forefinger so that only the very tip of the pick extends out of the fingers. When you strike the string the thumb will hit the string a tiny fraction of a second after the tip of the pick does. Takes a bit of practice.

    • @circumcizednun1814
      @circumcizednun1814 Рік тому +2

      ​@@Larry821 wow that's even better

    • @salty_3k506
      @salty_3k506 11 місяців тому +1

      ​@@Larry821 that works for me too but isn't that exactly what people mean when saying catch the string with your thumb?

    • @ophiolatreia93
      @ophiolatreia93 10 місяців тому

      Could you explain how do do it please

    • @rishz7857
      @rishz7857 5 місяців тому +1

      I rub my pick & thumb on string nearly simultaneously. Works. It took a few minutes to learn & a week or so to be consistent.

  • @sirmoanalot3779
    @sirmoanalot3779 3 роки тому +1611

    Pinch harmonics are like Pringles. One you pop, you can’t stop

    • @tylersmash7134
      @tylersmash7134 3 роки тому +26

      *Zakk Wylde likes this*

    • @wizarddemon
      @wizarddemon 3 роки тому +2

      I know it sounds cool

    • @bucaro5336
      @bucaro5336 3 роки тому +18

      Can't stop addicted to the Pringles

    • @goodguyoofyeet647
      @goodguyoofyeet647 3 роки тому +14

      Just like Johnny Cash, but he was popping something else

    • @51MontyPython
      @51MontyPython 3 роки тому

      @@tylersmash7134 You beat me to it.

  • @Equimanthorn80
    @Equimanthorn80 3 роки тому +2230

    It's fascinating that the best lesson on pinch harmonics that I've ever seen was preceded by an ad that said YOU CAN'T LEARN HOW TO PLAY GUITAR ON UA-cam, YOU NEED TO BUY OUR LESSONS.

    • @--TOM--
      @--TOM-- 3 роки тому +103

      Lmao same I hate those ads

    • @DerAykac
      @DerAykac 3 роки тому +68

      Lol, after buying my first bass i asked them for learning material. Guy just started laughing, told me that was a stupid question i should just go on youtube xD

    • @xxSk8ing4christxx
      @xxSk8ing4christxx 3 роки тому +29

      YOU CAN LEARN HOW TO PLAY FROM SIMPLY GUITAR?!?!?!?

    • @TheArtofGuitar
      @TheArtofGuitar  3 роки тому +431

      The irony hurts my boobs.

    • @ItsEmilyEliza
      @ItsEmilyEliza 3 роки тому +21

      @@DerAykac I literally just paid for a guitar lesson subscription, and they don't have one video on how to do squeals. The guys in the forum said to go on youtube as well LOL... Thanks, "Riffhard"...

  • @AndyPasinski
    @AndyPasinski Рік тому +138

    I watched like 10 videos on pinch harmonics. Couldn't do it even a little bit. Just watched yours and now I can do it consistently on command after like 10 min of practicing how you explained it. So thank you!

    • @austinkamp8048
      @austinkamp8048 Рік тому +4

      I had a similar experience when I was learning too. I accidentally did it once the "wrong" way and then after that it made sense.

  • @justarandomdude928
    @justarandomdude928 2 роки тому

    Dude thank you so much, I have tried many different videos, explaining it in different ways but none of them had ever really got the result I was hoping for. Only took a little while after watching your vid and now I can really hit them. Love how simple you teach stuff. Your channel overall is amazing, thank you.

  • @xkiller007x8
    @xkiller007x8 3 роки тому +1549

    “No internet back then” when you realize how lucky we are to have this legend

    • @ChickenPermissionOG
      @ChickenPermissionOG 2 роки тому +8

      internet has been around since the 80's and in the uni's in the 70's

    • @TheArtofGuitar
      @TheArtofGuitar  2 роки тому +159

      @@ChickenPermissionOG Not for me. My first intro to the net was an AOL disk. haha

    • @danielvazquez392
      @danielvazquez392 2 роки тому +3

      @@TheArtofGuitar haha yea same

    • @brpadington
      @brpadington 2 роки тому +10

      I remember using BBS's in the late 80s. The internet was amazing before dumb people could use it. We didn't have censorship back tnen.

    • @Nick_Har
      @Nick_Har 2 роки тому +1

      @@brpadington Unfortunately I am young and haven't experienced that era. My first "deeper" interaction with the internet like expect listening to song on youtube or something like that was after the summer of 2015.

  • @mr5039
    @mr5039 3 роки тому +1468

    I feel like I’m getting cheat codes.

    • @msslayer6964
      @msslayer6964 3 роки тому +37

      More like a useful tip in the bottom of the loading screen

    • @blueghost6288
      @blueghost6288 3 роки тому +8

      I would like your comment but you have 69 likes can’t ruin the magic number

    • @davisj789
      @davisj789 3 роки тому +3

      All this man gives is cheat codes

    • @stevenrwilson181
      @stevenrwilson181 3 роки тому +1

      ZZ Top is also killer at this. BTW THANK YOU. THIS IS AGAME CHANGER FOR ME!!

    • @samouellette5130
      @samouellette5130 3 роки тому

      dude's channel is the cheat menu

  • @zacm6173
    @zacm6173 Рік тому

    dude you’re the best always. i’ve been playing for decades but now i’m finally shredding and your videos are beyond helpful.

  • @skateup2291
    @skateup2291 Рік тому +7

    I watched this video a couple of years ago around a year after i started playing. Man this guy has helped my guitar playing so much.

  • @jesseoreilly1792
    @jesseoreilly1792 2 роки тому +2093

    I practiced playing Metal on an acoustic guitar for months and when I finally got my hands on an electric again, my fingers were gnarly strong and I could bend and squeal like no one's business.

    • @ix-Xafra
      @ix-Xafra 2 роки тому +42

      Electrics attracts dicks,
      Acoustics attract chicks...

    • @RockerNate81
      @RockerNate81 2 роки тому +77

      YESSSSSS! Acoustic metal is the best!

    • @therevenant4178
      @therevenant4178 2 роки тому +89

      I am now imagining acoustic metal in drop A

    • @Cthulhu_Awaken
      @Cthulhu_Awaken 2 роки тому +11

      @@ix-Xafra Grim but facts.

    • @ekman2095
      @ekman2095 2 роки тому +12

      @@ix-Xafra Sounds like an absolute win to me!

  • @DrumWild
    @DrumWild 3 роки тому +889

    I learned it by accident. Then again, that's how we learned everything in the 70s.

    • @TimmehTRP
      @TimmehTRP 3 роки тому +23

      Growing up in the 00's and learning guitar in the 10's I also learned it by accident.

    • @DrumWild
      @DrumWild 2 роки тому +8

      @@TimmehTRP Accidents can happen :) It's a good thing, too, when there's no video, no internet, or any way to slow things down while retaining pitch. Those three things right here are why there are so many shredding 5 year olds.

    • @Thraith
      @Thraith 2 роки тому

      80's, too.

    • @raxosc1475
      @raxosc1475 2 роки тому +3

      Me too! I'm laughing rn because I used to do this on my acoustic guitar and didn't know what pinch harmonics are, and know I realize that I have been doing it all the time when I get bored 🤣

    • @The_Last_Ninja
      @The_Last_Ninja 2 роки тому +1

      I was an accident too! That’s how our parents did it back in the days 😱

  • @frankrichmond5112
    @frankrichmond5112 Рік тому

    So thankful for this. This is the clearly I've seen it taught. After a year of trying to figure it out I have nailed it thanks to you

  • @Catywampus.Kerfuffle
    @Catywampus.Kerfuffle Рік тому +1

    Thank you. I have already figured out pinch harmonics, but your description of your journey to discovery has given me some other techniques to throw into my bag of tricks as well.

  • @mileschow5961
    @mileschow5961 3 роки тому +807

    Dimebag looks down upon us today and smiles

    • @Waltzhybrid92
      @Waltzhybrid92 3 роки тому +18

      Dimebag is a god.

    • @hassanchop7096
      @hassanchop7096 3 роки тому +5

      Dime bag was a clown

    • @AR1TT
      @AR1TT 3 роки тому +19

      @@hassanchop7096 Shut up man!

    • @wamporeycidulgb
      @wamporeycidulgb 3 роки тому +8

      @@hassanchop7096 No, but you are a troll?

    • @SamuraiSilverhand
      @SamuraiSilverhand 3 роки тому +6

      @@hassanchop7096 *phil anselmo enters the chat*

  • @GageBaker
    @GageBaker 3 роки тому +842

    I never comment on UA-cam because it’s weird, but I feel compelled. My uncle gave me my first guitar and I remember he kept trying to get the harmonics down and never could. He passed away recently and after watching this I’m squealing every note. Wish he was here so I could show him. Thanks for the video man

    • @TheArtofGuitar
      @TheArtofGuitar  3 роки тому +144

      This made my day.

    • @HannahCope88
      @HannahCope88 3 роки тому +37

      That's awesome to hear you're getting those notes to squeal. I have every confidence that your Uncle can see, I'm sure he's very proud 😊

    • @DanteLikesRock
      @DanteLikesRock 2 роки тому +5

      "I never comment cuz its weird" LMAO.

    • @zainpunka1703
      @zainpunka1703 2 роки тому +3

      @@DanteLikesRock ..so now you've got no arse dude?

    • @DanteLikesRock
      @DanteLikesRock 2 роки тому

      @@zainpunka1703 excuse me?

  • @beardedrevenge926
    @beardedrevenge926 2 роки тому +1

    Mate, you're awesome. How easily you explained some knowledge I searched for weeks is incredible. Keep it going. And a perfect timed "sweet" at the end. Thanks a lot !

  • @jrenaud22
    @jrenaud22 Рік тому +1

    Thanks for sharing your struggling experience. I see so many good guitarists who seem like they didn't struggle along the way, even though I know everyone does. Makes me have hope, lol.

  • @HeyKids98
    @HeyKids98 3 роки тому +152

    Pinch harmonics are really just one of those things that make no sense until you magically get it one day and never go back

    • @alicec1533
      @alicec1533 3 роки тому +9

      I don't blame all those videos that explain it poorly. It's very much something you just 'get' as with a lot of guitar technique. This video is definitely the best video I've seen on this topic.

    • @rainbowskelter
      @rainbowskelter 2 роки тому

      Ya most of us figure it out by accident lol

    • @Ottophil
      @Ottophil 2 роки тому

      Tuning is like that too. One day I woke up and I could tune by ear, learn songs by ear, it just happened, And its never gone away

    • @sampletext0076
      @sampletext0076 2 роки тому

      @@rainbowskelter ok my story is about when I gave up on learning pinch harmonics so one day I got an idea to sort of align or lay my thumb almost flat against the strings mostly on the 5th string aligned with the 6th string then I played it. Tell you what I was the happiest at that time and all is smooth sailing from there. I learned that I held the pick wrong and when I tried it on a single coil didn’t sound that hot. I didn’t know that at the time

    • @tannert.2296
      @tannert.2296 2 роки тому +1

      I read this comment about 6 days ago and got the concept of pinch harmonics roughly 30 minutes ago, had to come back here to very much agree with this sentiment. It’s almost like the kickflip of guitar

  • @Rizzo91
    @Rizzo91 3 роки тому +126

    It's crazy how poorly pinch harmonics have been explained to me over the years. This is the first video I've seen that makes me "get" it and gives me something to actually practice and improve at.

    • @swinaecologist9610
      @swinaecologist9610 2 роки тому +2

      Same 🤦🤦🤦 I've been doing it wrong this whole time lmao

    • @BillyBasd
      @BillyBasd Рік тому

      Don't feel bad. I *still* can't do it. The video gave me hope when I plucked the string, touched it and *finally* got a sound that wasn't just a mute.
      Think I need a pedal, cheapo amp has garbage gain

  • @UnknownIdaho
    @UnknownIdaho Рік тому +1

    Good explanation, I am mainly a rhythm and riff guy, but this can make a great addition!
    Oddly, this came up on a Facebook ad, first time I’ve ever seen and clicked on a GOOD ad, thanks!

  • @hadenmiller7397
    @hadenmiller7397 Рік тому +12

    THANK YOU! I have been told by every guitar teacher or online lesson to do the thumb on the edge of the pick thing, and I could never do it, but now I can hit them anywhere on the fretboard, This is the best lesson on pinched harmonics I have ever seen! 👍🤘🎸

  • @hzaa6810
    @hzaa6810 3 роки тому +370

    I cant do pinch harmonics
    But when i do, its when i do it by accident 😒

    • @guitarwins1896
      @guitarwins1896 3 роки тому +5

      Don't worry bro, or did! It's been the same for me too. But I'm on the second part now. Just work on it a little each day. That lightbulb will eventually turn on, in sure!

    • @n34z3r
      @n34z3r 3 роки тому +4

      All the time but work in progress

    • @proteusblack8913
      @proteusblack8913 3 роки тому +7

      "I don't always do pinch harmonics, but when I do, I do them by accident. Stay thirsty my friends" - Jonathan Goldsmith

    • @sabrewolf1030
      @sabrewolf1030 3 роки тому +2

      @@guitarwins1896 MAKE PRETEND LIKE YOUR REVVING A MOTORCYCLE THROTTLE = FLICK THE WRIST OUT = I USE 2MM GATOR PICKS LIKE KEVEN FRASARD - XCEPT BEING A CONSTRUCTION LABORER HAS PLAGED ME WITH ARTHRTUS - DEXTERITY HAS DWINDLED -=- STAY IN SCHOOL -

    • @doom3380
      @doom3380 3 роки тому +3

      Don't overthink it. All you're doing is touching the string with your thumb as you pick. Just hold the pick as close to the edge of the point so then your thumb just naturally slides along the string. What made it click for me is that that's literally all there is to it.

  • @jameshetfieldtm8887
    @jameshetfieldtm8887 3 роки тому +212

    Joe Duplantier is who comes to mind when I think of pinch harmonics. Those Gojira riffs are unbelievable!

    • @demianstohr2422
      @demianstohr2422 3 роки тому +16

      For me it's Chuck Schuldiner! Many of his Solos and Riffs are chalkfull of them

    • @prakharmulmuley7357
      @prakharmulmuley7357 3 роки тому +13

      Zakk wylde *cries in corner*

    • @leoglasmeyer2853
      @leoglasmeyer2853 3 роки тому +5

      Bruh gojira is a more about naturals imo

    • @skullcandy5411
      @skullcandy5411 3 роки тому +8

      Magmas main riff is literally all pinch harmonics in different places lol it’s crazy

    • @viridianloom
      @viridianloom 3 роки тому +2

      Between that and their pick slides I've never been particularly good at trying to play their songs :(

  • @davidbrewer9325
    @davidbrewer9325 Рік тому

    I've done some teaching myself and just wanted to tell you that you are doing a great job you make it really easy to understand what you are teaching just keep doing what your doing rock brother. MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU AND YOURS

  • @camillewhite6237
    @camillewhite6237 4 місяці тому

    Thank you so much man. I have asked so many people watched so many tutorials on this and not one is as thorough as you are.

  • @austina369
    @austina369 3 роки тому +257

    1:33 Rage Against the Machine would disapprove this line

  • @MedalionDS9
    @MedalionDS9 3 роки тому +524

    I can do pinch harmonics... not cleanly but I can do them 85% of the time when I want.. even on acoustic. Sweep picking continues to elude me however.

    • @brodyskelton5209
      @brodyskelton5209 3 роки тому +13

      same situation lol, i can do them fast but not slow for some reason. i guess it’s more natural fast.

    • @Phil.Anthropy
      @Phil.Anthropy 3 роки тому +14

      Sweeps will forever run from me..

    • @slayerx2000
      @slayerx2000 3 роки тому +5

      Me too dude. I want to learn sweep picking SO BAD!

    • @chrisholman2289
      @chrisholman2289 3 роки тому +26

      Only other guitarists are bothered about sweep picking.... don’t fret about it.

    • @b.j.surfdog3724
      @b.j.surfdog3724 3 роки тому +2

      Yes, the sweep is waiting! trying that myself.

  • @robleveridge
    @robleveridge Рік тому

    Great video! Keep zeroing in on specific topics and what you think will actually be helpful to people. This video is top notch. Good job! I also discovered this harmonic thing by accident after reading a clunky explanation in a guitar magazine. Your video explained it so well.

  • @MS-fw5js
    @MS-fw5js 2 роки тому +6

    Your teaching approach is Top Shelf. That being said the interesting ways you disect techniques help viewer's understand. Most teachers want to impress more than explain. I to struggled to find that touch . I'm a huge Eddie,Zak,Dime fan that had to find that pinch and the Dime trademark squeal. Awesome Lessons

  • @ANNIHILISTIC
    @ANNIHILISTIC 3 роки тому +64

    Getting your first pinch is absolutely a lightbulb moment. It's not one of those things you work on slowly, it's one of those things you try and try and one day you get it.
    Getting a pinch harmonic and bending that note with distortion... OH! It's like the best feeling, you feel ten times bigger.

    • @imoffendedthatyouareoffended
      @imoffendedthatyouareoffended 2 роки тому +2

      It honestly feels like I leveled up and gained a new ability. Lmao, It just clicked finally. Now to work on honing in on it and then as well moving up and down the fret board as well.

    • @KrishMetalYT
      @KrishMetalYT 2 роки тому

      It's like I tried so hard to become a Super Saiyan but just when I lost all hope to live and I was ready to die... That's when IT CAME to me.

  • @Mr63deep
    @Mr63deep 3 роки тому +1452

    When you accidentally hit a pinch harmonic ahhh the best feeling.
    Edit thanks for the likes guys

    • @Cthulhu_Awaken
      @Cthulhu_Awaken 3 роки тому +9

      Not when you want to play clean... 😔

    • @raydelrosario2366
      @raydelrosario2366 3 роки тому +16

      Yes..and during performance you pretend you meant to do it...but your band mates all look at you and they know it was accidental..and they wink at ya.

    • @mateoahumada2429
      @mateoahumada2429 3 роки тому +4

      I remember when I hit my first pinch harmonic and I couldn’t do it again but it was just so cool

    • @AI-ke9pp
      @AI-ke9pp 3 роки тому +3

      First instinct after that is o nod aggressively

    • @georgeville9533
      @georgeville9533 3 роки тому +3

      I accidentally hit pinch harmonics all the time for everyone to enjoy😏

  • @austinseymour9780
    @austinseymour9780 10 місяців тому +1

    THIS IS THE BEST VIDEO ON PINCH HARM IVE SEEN IVE BEEN LOOKING FOR A GOOD VIDEO FOR WEEKS THANK YOU

  • @MusicFan4848
    @MusicFan4848 Рік тому +10

    Thank you for making this video! For weeks I've been trying to play pinch harmonics, and your video taught me in five minutes!

    • @thepirhomancer9745
      @thepirhomancer9745 Рік тому +1

      Another way he didn't talk about is to curl your pinkie or ring finger(picking hand) under so that it lays on the string when pick it, where you place it determines the pitch,same principal just different method.

  • @grateshirtironer2972
    @grateshirtironer2972 3 роки тому +278

    I'm a physicist, and in physics, there is the idea of a thing called 'a standing wave". There are two types- one, like sound, where there is an oscillation in pressure (longitudinal), and the other, like a string, bouncing up and down (transverse). Just google the bracketed terms to see diagrams of what I'm talking about, you'll get it when you see it.
    I had never heard of pinch harmonics before, but based on my understanding of transverse waves, and running my guitar through a spectrum analyser, I could see the fundamental frequency (the note being played), as well as several harmonic frequencies above it. I figured, "well, if the first harmonic has a node at the center of the string, and the fundamental frequency doesn't, then if I place my finger on that node, then the oscillation of the fundamental frequency will cease, and the net displacement of the string at the node is zero, so I should hear the first harmonic only". Of course, the some nodes of the upper harmonics don't align, so you can pick and choose which ones you want based on the location of your finger.
    And that is how I learnt how to use pinch harmonics. Usually only use it to adjust intonation.

    • @theliegeofshadows
      @theliegeofshadows 3 роки тому +11

      Yeah. What I understood of that made sense.
      The difference between a "bright" sound and a "dark" sound is how loud those upper frequencies are. With a dark sound, you're limiting the volume of those higher harmonics in the fundamental sound. A bright sound opens up those higher harmonics. So, "bright" kind of just means "more frequencies" in this context.
      In addition to what you said, a pinch harmonic essentially limits the lower frequencies manually. While I wouldn't consider it "bright" because it's limiting sound, it's taking those higher tones and bringing them to the forefront of what is audible.

    • @fuzzfizz
      @fuzzfizz 2 роки тому +20

      Back in college I got a classmate who failed at a chapter in physics, about wave, resonance, frequency. I took a guitar and teach him about those frequency, how making the string shorter in half makes the frequency double, how different gauges of string and tension makes different frequency, and how playing a note same with and open string makes the open string resonates. He scored in the chapter afterwards.

    • @evanramstad240
      @evanramstad240 2 роки тому

      NERD

    • @dragulia_venaro
      @dragulia_venaro 2 роки тому +3

      I hate it when someone ask me to open google lol

    • @devchoudhary12
      @devchoudhary12 2 роки тому +5

      Damn sheldon

  • @MrKoolaidjam
    @MrKoolaidjam 3 роки тому +270

    lol I actually learned them the EXACT same way.

    • @tacticalties
      @tacticalties 3 роки тому +7

      Yup me too. So entertaining to watch someone explain exactly how I thought myself to do it. Good to know we are not freaks haha.

    • @stevenpurtee5062
      @stevenpurtee5062 3 роки тому +2

      Yep. Me too. We probably all did.

    • @curtblack686
      @curtblack686 3 роки тому +1

      I feel like a lot of us did this by the looks of it!

    • @lorenzopena75
      @lorenzopena75 3 роки тому +1

      Same here.

    • @dominikweber4305
      @dominikweber4305 3 роки тому

      Dont wanna ruin it but my guitar teacher told me how to do it😂

  • @harmonyjones659
    @harmonyjones659 11 місяців тому

    This definable helped I watched this a few months before and struggled but now I can do it thanks to your video

  • @Jaylou88
    @Jaylou88 Рік тому +1

    Bro, I also remember reading that article about the half thumb, half pick action. after 15 years of owning a guitar, I’ve just now learned the proper technique thanks to you. Wow. Thank you 🙏

  • @spitzy7965
    @spitzy7965 2 роки тому +93

    I can now actually play pinch harmonics after only 30minutes since watching the vid, don't hit them all the time but I went from like 10% to around 80% consistency

  • @GaryHubbs
    @GaryHubbs 3 роки тому +93

    Awesome, I’m picking up my guitar in a few minutes. Going to go full Dimebag.

  • @bmoore5868
    @bmoore5868 Рік тому +1

    Awesome! Never been a metal player but for years I was always intrigued how that sound was produced.

  • @hansfaustoimageandmotion
    @hansfaustoimageandmotion 2 роки тому

    Of all the videos ive watched about pinch harmonics, yours made the most sense. Everyones like, pick the string then hit it with your thumb and I swear that baffled me so much HAHA.
    Thank you for being such an awesome teacher!

  • @rachelstarr6778
    @rachelstarr6778 3 роки тому +120

    I honestly accidentally did a pinch harmonic and it’s been all down hill since then

    • @YaroddYT
      @YaroddYT Рік тому

      How is it going now?

  • @Anubiss3301
    @Anubiss3301 3 роки тому +26

    I've struggled with this technique for almost a decade, never made it past the stage of discovering where harmonic notes lie (playing notes then lightly touching the strings as shown) or randomly hitting a pinch 1 in every 100 tries without figuring out how it happened. Magazines and tutorial explanations of 'let your thumb touch the strings' weren't much help, so cheers for explaining it in a lot more detail!

  • @billparisi5373
    @billparisi5373 7 місяців тому

    Wow, I had struggled with trying to learn this for a long time, and in 5 minutes your explanation made so much sense. I can pretty much do these at will now in most spots

  • @joemacinnis5644
    @joemacinnis5644 2 роки тому

    Thank u very much that's by far the easiest way I've seen for a squeal.
    I thank u.. so right on I'll be tuning into your channel from now on..

  • @attila1746
    @attila1746 3 роки тому +46

    I also "discovered" the technique by accident. I got pissed off that I wasn't getting the effect. In my frustration, I dug into the string which naturally brought my thumb closer to it as I picked down. Bam! Pinch Harmonic! After that, it made sense...... Very weird! Now, I mostly just turn my wrist slightly when I want one.

    • @Killgoers
      @Killgoers 3 роки тому +1

      I copied you literally as I was reading your comment and I think you just made me break through lol

  • @williambaumert7726
    @williambaumert7726 3 роки тому +51

    I'm definitely still struggling, but now I understand how pinch harmonics actually work - and simply understanding the mechanisms which drive the sound is helping me already. Now I just need to practice! Thanks for the insight! :)

  • @mschrage618
    @mschrage618 Рік тому

    Been struggling with PHs for a few months, this is the first video I’ve found that makes sense, can’t wait to try it tonight after work!

  • @eintor
    @eintor 11 місяців тому

    Every video Ive seen about pinch harmonics so far has only explained how to hold the pick. But you actually gave insides how to experiment with this to get to the actual sound and explained it more detailed. I still need to learn it, but you helped a lot. Thank you :D

  • @jimbobur
    @jimbobur 3 роки тому +30

    I've been trying for ages and I kinda get a harmonic or something when I touch the string very gently and briefly after plucking, but it doesn't sound anything like as high pitched or sqeally as when you do it in the video.
    EDIT: I'VE CRACKED IT! In case anyone has the same guitar pickup arrangement as me (one humbucker at the neck, one at the bridge), switch your pickup selector to the bridge only. I did it and all of a sudden I started finding the pinch harmonics.

  • @thebooda
    @thebooda 3 роки тому +15

    What's so cool about watching your videos is that you make me feel like it's a private lesson. Like the old days when you had to travel to your teacher learn the material. Then you had to try to remember everything you were taught and demonstrated on your way home only to forget 50% of it it by the time you got home and started to practice. UA-cam, pause, re-wind, slow down, what a difference. Oh, let's not forget having a great teacher who wants you to learn! That would be you, Mike! Thank you for all you do!

  • @AaronRuperto
    @AaronRuperto 9 місяців тому +1

    After a few tries i'm doing it!!!! Now its just practice makes perfect!! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!

  • @joelbrown6411
    @joelbrown6411 Рік тому

    Seriously great video here! Love your story on how you got there. Anyone who has been there or is there now can easily comprehend.

  • @pashahillyard8763
    @pashahillyard8763 3 роки тому +56

    "My favorite guitarists were like Steve Vai, ........."
    Has Steve Vai guitar

  • @Add_Account485
    @Add_Account485 2 роки тому +6

    Lol .I relate when he said ... :
    " I Got That Rush Inside ... ...LIKE Whoah! I Just Did It ....."
    ....." SORT OF! "...
    ...
    yeah it's the " SORT OF " part that makes you laugh ..
    I feel the same feeling just now!!!

  • @crazycatgamer21
    @crazycatgamer21 2 роки тому

    OH. MY. GOD. I've been playing guitar for like 15 years and I always have been doing PA like you mentionned at the beginning of the video and never got them consistent. I picked up your thumb movement instantaneously and it works every time ! Who knew I needed this 5 min video so bad in my life !

  • @TheWayneCoLabExperience
    @TheWayneCoLabExperience 2 роки тому

    Thankyou soo much for this been practicing for a few hours with looking at different techniques I was getting what you got initially then started using my touch on my index but this has helped even more

  • @danclay8229
    @danclay8229 2 роки тому +22

    I remember hearing these sounds out of guitars back in the 80s and 90s and couldn't for the life of me figure out how it came out of a guitar. Had no idea they were called "pinch harmonics" until about a year ago thanks to these UA-cam videos. Now at least I have a chance!

  • @mrnohax5436
    @mrnohax5436 2 роки тому +14

    Dimebag Darrell is the master of harmonic squeals

  • @tal7574
    @tal7574 Рік тому

    ive been trying to achieve this sound for so long ive been through so many different tutorials, only this one helped me achieve that beautiful sound, thank you

  • @zidan40o0
    @zidan40o0 2 роки тому

    hands down best lesson on pinch harmonics. thank you so much for this.

  • @joshdraken1
    @joshdraken1 3 роки тому +15

    It's also important to note that the pick-ups have a huge role in nailing those squeelies. Some are far less responsive to harmonics than others.

  • @BC-Zeee
    @BC-Zeee 2 роки тому +44

    That's exactly how I learned pitch harmonics...one of the only guitar techniques I mastered all on my own. I got that same rush feeling when I first heard the harmonic ring out. May sound cliche but it was definitely a " discovered fire" moment. Before the days of UA-cam and social media. The days when I would anxiously wait for a bands new album to come out and rush to the mall to get it. Then preceding to burn the cd for my buddies.. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love and in awe of the technology available today...but there was just a different feeling back in the day to learn something on your own without watching a detailed UA-cam video. Finding that awesome track on a CD that wasn't a single was like hitting the jackpot. Now I instantly have access to almost every single recorded song out there and can listen to any part of the song in milliseconds without having to listen to an entire album or rewind and fast forward through tracks.

    • @alfrednewman4496
      @alfrednewman4496 Рік тому +1

      I was with you until you said " burn the cd. " that was pushing into the future times. Still a while ago but not the stone age of formats by any means.

  • @neihoumou6773
    @neihoumou6773 2 роки тому

    Thank you so much for this! I have been like doing it based on luck, but I can finally practise this as a technique now! Great vid and thanks again!

  • @T_Whit
    @T_Whit Рік тому

    Thank you this video actually helped a ton. I thought it would take forever to learn but after watching this i got it in under 20 minutes. Now im just trying to stay consistent and perfect the sound qualite. Thanks again!

  • @TTSetters
    @TTSetters 3 роки тому +51

    I used to do a ton of pinch harmonics, but then Zakk came along and was every other note doing it so I stopped haha.

    • @glenncooper3524
      @glenncooper3524 3 роки тому +9

      Ya Zakk went and still goes way overboard to the point of ridiculous

    • @Johnbartheart
      @Johnbartheart 3 роки тому +4

      ‘Pinch at the Moon’

    • @SketchEtcher
      @SketchEtcher 3 роки тому +3

      I love Zack’s squeals.

    • @davidtheriot7404
      @davidtheriot7404 3 роки тому

      Yeah, just about every fucking note. I stopped listening to anything he does because of it.

    • @HipsterEatinShark
      @HipsterEatinShark 3 роки тому +1

      Wow, you're a rebel! I bet you sell out way more shows than Zakk Wylde, mister!

  • @DavidBentley23
    @DavidBentley23 3 роки тому +16

    I never picked up a guitar until around 1997 when I was at a buddies house. For the first time he offered to show me power chords. He gave me the guitar I played an E power chord...but because I watched the Pantera home videos and Ozzy's 'Live and Loud' concert nearly daily I did what I called "wee and wahz" purely learned from visualization when air guitaring to Dimebag and Zakk Wylde...and after 23 years of playing I can say I suck at everything with guitar except for wee and wahing. I guess I couldn't be naturally gifted with finger picking, perfect pitch, understanding guitar tone...rythem...or the ability to remember how rhythm is actually spelt...or spelled...Sanctus Rules 🤘

    • @kobrien6657
      @kobrien6657 3 роки тому +4

      None of us are 'naturally gifted', it is the illusion of not seeing the years of practice, and just seeing the finished product. Take a lesson. I am a drummer for over 30 years self taught. I also have been messing with guitar for about 20 of those years. A lesson every now and again ALWAYS shoots me forward👍🤘. It takes what I know from being an active player and ties together all the loose ends that I'm missing at any given point. UA-cam is great but doesn't give the structure that individual lessons provide. I guarantee that just 2 lessons will skyrocket you beyond what you thought possible. Obviously its really about putting the work into practice, but lessons bring guidance on WHAT I SHOULD be practicing. Good luck bro, and never stop playing!

    • @dominikweber4305
      @dominikweber4305 3 роки тому

      @@kobrien6657 yeah totally agree with you. People always think its so cool to learn it all by yourself and there may be some natural talents but most people including me just need lessons

  • @armanborloza7981
    @armanborloza7981 Рік тому

    Hey!! I cant thank you enough!! I'm so happy you have this video on youtube. Thank you so much,

  • @adamozz1492
    @adamozz1492 7 місяців тому

    This is the one video where it’s actually explained and not just shown, thank you my man

  • @Maggiethegsd
    @Maggiethegsd 3 роки тому +16

    This is actually the best tutorial BY FAR. I remember myself watching countless videos where the person would explain harmonics and I would be left trying it without success. Even though I eventually managed to learn it, I wish I had this video at that time. Would have been so much easier lol.

  • @Suhdudeyah
    @Suhdudeyah 3 роки тому +16

    I do pinch harmonics with my ring finger. Perfect every time. It’s not “correct” but that’s how I learned. My buddy taught me in 3 weeks in middle school while we were learning Crazy Train together.

  • @Schauberg1
    @Schauberg1 9 місяців тому

    after 1,5 year of looking ways to make this beautiful sound, hundreds videos, finally found great video with explanation and i did Pinch harmonic on every string.

  • @halweyant4737
    @halweyant4737 8 місяців тому

    thanks man. can't wait to try it.

  • @andrewroby1130
    @andrewroby1130 3 роки тому +7

    2:45 "Woah, I just did it sort of!"
    Man, what a great feel.

    • @Coram_D30
      @Coram_D30 3 роки тому

      Dude I remember when I struggled with hamer on and pull offs

  • @leocana
    @leocana 3 роки тому +52

    GOD DAMNIT MIKE, WHERE HAS THIS LESSON BEEN FOR THE LAST 20 YEARS!?!?!?

  • @TheGersson28
    @TheGersson28 8 місяців тому

    this helped me tons!! I will be sending tips once I can, thanks so much for the lesson!

  • @rpeetz
    @rpeetz 9 місяців тому

    It’s amazing how many different people follow through the same steps even when don’t ever told each other how they did, while I didn’t do the pick and then touching the string with the middle finger, i did the two motions of the side thumb touch before trying to make it one motion.

  • @PureMagma
    @PureMagma 3 роки тому +64

    You're explanations are so great.

  • @sniperwolf50
    @sniperwolf50 3 роки тому +6

    That's exactly how my old guitar teacher taught me. I picked up the basics in a week. Saved me a lot of time

  • @Jmilillo
    @Jmilillo Рік тому +1

    this helped me so much Mike! I can play pinch harmonics effortlessly now. Thanks!

  • @PajamaPantsStudios
    @PajamaPantsStudios 6 місяців тому

    This is exactly how I learned to do them, I was curious to your method. Fantastic tutorial, I couldn’t have explained it better!

  • @Oblivion420
    @Oblivion420 3 роки тому +3

    It's almost like sweeping your thumb across that one string. This explained it so much better than what I've found.

  • @florentintise
    @florentintise 3 роки тому +9

    That was an interesting break-up of the technique. I enjoyed watching. Thanks.

  • @greggw890
    @greggw890 Рік тому

    Thanks bud I've been trying to find that "sweet" spot That lesson.. The light went off and wala you showed it !!!🎸🎸🎸🔊

  • @allanturmaine5496
    @allanturmaine5496 Рік тому +1

    Thank you so much! This is my favourite noise in metal, and I've never known the name of it. I just kept saying "the little squealy bits." This is years of relief.

  • @djjazzyjeff1232
    @djjazzyjeff1232 3 роки тому +66

    I never understood that "finger as close to the edge of the pick as you can" advice. I hold the pick like normal I just really "dig in" so the pick goes deep between the strings and that brings my thumb closer to the guitar. It's the digging in that gets me the harmonics not holding your pick differently. Hold your pick like normal, kids, lol.

    • @christiansanabria6260
      @christiansanabria6260 2 роки тому +2

      great advice, ty

    • @leerv.
      @leerv. 2 роки тому +4

      That's how I would do it too, I would just dig into ("pinch") the string with my pick and thumb, very aggressively. Combined with gain, the sound just came out. But it is nice to see a method laid out for people so they don't have to fall into it like I did!!

    • @gh0stou
      @gh0stou 2 роки тому +1

      it's actually a really great advice, I learned it quickly thanks to you :)

    • @beastlybeast2716
      @beastlybeast2716 2 роки тому

      Exactly. I tried for a long time and couldn’t get it down. Then one day I wasn’t even trying to do a pinch harmonic but I screwed up while playing and a pinch harmonic wailed out from the guitar.
      Then I was able to do it whenever I wanted. Weirdest thing ever. Now I can pull them off in my sleep. One of the few times with guitar where I had a super satisfying moment where the technique “clicked” and I had it down from that point on. Like leveling up in a video game lol.
      My advice, therefore, would be not to worry about it too much. I think people overthink it. But “digging in” actually is far better advice than any tutorial I ever saw.
      Just gotta get a feel for them.

    • @Untoldanimations
      @Untoldanimations 2 роки тому

      I wish I could do harmonica by holding the pick the same way because I do keep having to switch to holding it at the end of my thumb and then back for regular notes so its really hard switching back and forth

  • @krapiak
    @krapiak 3 роки тому +9

    don't even have my guitar on me right now, but i somehow know this advice is going to super help me out! subscribed!

  • @winterlion777
    @winterlion777 Рік тому

    Thanks for explaining the difficulty you had trying to learn pinch harmonics because other player's videos make it seem like it should be easy but I've been having a hard time at it for a while even though I've been playing for years but never actually knew how to do it.

  • @carlensbasement9147
    @carlensbasement9147 Рік тому

    Hands down best explanation on this technique on the net! Thank you!

  • @bcoyote1122
    @bcoyote1122 3 роки тому +60

    Billy Gibbons is a master of this technique.

    • @epickett63
      @epickett63 3 роки тому +1

      He was the first person I thought of when I saw the title.

    • @LunaticTheCat
      @LunaticTheCat 3 роки тому +1

      He plays with 7's too 😲

    • @leocana
      @leocana 3 роки тому +1

      @@LunaticTheCat Just the other day I've read that Gibbons liked heavier strings especially after meeting SRV, and then one day playing with B. B. King he looked at those heavy strings and said "Why you working so hard, boy?". After that, he got to lighter strings. I find this anecdote funny but also very, very humbling. Mine are Ernie Ball Super Slinky (the pink one, 9 gauge), and after I heard this I'm inclined to try 8's next time.

    • @drifter8164
      @drifter8164 3 роки тому

      @Auxiliary Stream Services Didn't think anyone would mention him

    • @MrBlahdiblahdi
      @MrBlahdiblahdi 3 роки тому +3

      Billy Gibbons is pretty much a master of EVERY technique....

  • @rofflestomp684
    @rofflestomp684 3 роки тому +4

    Excellent lesson! I will strum and do hammer pull offs on the fret board to get one finger harmonics, but I love this pick/thumb technique. I never was in a hair band, so I guess I missed that one. lol Looking like a new toy day tomorrow. Thanks!

  • @atsyed87
    @atsyed87 2 роки тому

    holy shit thank you this is exactly what i needed!!! INSTA SUBSCRIBED. I had never been able to do them and figured it out within 10 minutes of trying your method! Cheers man, thanks a ton

  • @wannapostacomment
    @wannapostacomment 11 місяців тому +8

    I've been doing this exact same thing for 30 years, accidentally. I just twisted my picking hand a little bit, but now it makes total sense why that works. Thank you!!!

  • @wedgie502
    @wedgie502 11 місяців тому +3

    I know I'm a couple years late but, something that I found to help me is also pick choice. I'm using a VERY thin pick so it makes it easier to twist my wrist. I also found a slightly different method to where I'm touching the pick-up after striking the string and my thumb falls onto the string giving me the squeal. This video really helped me to get to this point though, thank you for posting!!

  • @wolfsbane123
    @wolfsbane123 3 роки тому +4

    I have been playing guitar for 11 years and never could get a consistent pinch harmonic until right now. You are kind of a hero good sir

  • @ReasonableAssumption
    @ReasonableAssumption Рік тому

    After 10 years, this indirectly showed the correct way :). I followed the advice and got the easy locations along the strings. Then I held the pick at about 45 degrees from parallel with my thumb exactly even with the end of my thumb.
    I then slowly shifted the pressure towards my first thumb knuckle allowing my thumb tip to separate slightly from the pick. Took about 60 trials to get the amount of separation right but I can get all the strings to ring out with a lovely squeal now. Well done and subscribed.

  • @saminterlichia1006
    @saminterlichia1006 Рік тому +1

    I don’t ever leave comments on videos, but I had to for this! His method for teaching how to pinch squeal helped me achieve a technique I have always struggled to do!!