Beginner’s Guide- Mastering the Classic Sound of Judas Priest’s Heavy Metal on Guitar

How to Play Heavy Metal Judas Priest on Guitar – New Player

Are you a new player looking to dive into the world of heavy metal guitar with Judas Priest as your guide? Look no further! In this article, we will walk you through the basics of playing Judas Priest’s iconic heavy metal riffs on the guitar. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your skills, we’ve got you covered.

Understanding the Music

Before you start playing, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with Judas Priest’s music. Listen to their albums, such as “British Steel,” “Painkiller,” and “Firepower,” to get a feel for their distinctive style. Pay attention to the rhythm, the riffs, and the overall sound of the band. This will help you understand the techniques and tones used in their music.

Essential Techniques

To play Judas Priest’s heavy metal riffs, you’ll need to master a few essential guitar techniques:

1. Power Chords: Judas Priest’s music is known for its powerful and thick guitar sound, often achieved through the use of power chords. Practice playing power chords in various positions on the neck to get comfortable with this fundamental technique.

2. Palm Muting: Palm muting is crucial for achieving the heavy, punchy sound that Judas Priest is famous for. Learn to mute the strings with your palm while plucking them to create a tight, rhythmic tone.

3. Speed and Precision: Judas Priest’s guitar solos and riffs require speed and precision. Practice scales and exercises to improve your finger dexterity and speed.

4. Tone and Effects: Experiment with different guitar tones and effects to find the one that best suits your style. A distortion pedal and a good amplifier will help you achieve the classic Judas Priest sound.

Practice Riffs and Solos

Now that you have a grasp of the essential techniques, it’s time to practice the specific riffs and solos from Judas Priest’s songs. Here are a few examples to get you started:

1. “Painkiller” – “Breaking the Law”: This iconic riff is a great place to start. Practice playing the descending power chords in the rhythm section, focusing on palm muting and maintaining a strong, rhythmic feel.

2. “Painkiller” – “Painkiller”: This fast-paced solo showcases Judas Priest’s guitar prowess. Break down the solo into smaller sections and practice each one until you can play it smoothly.

3. “British Steel” – “Metal God”: This song features a memorable guitar riff that combines power chords and palm muting. Practice the riff in different positions on the neck to get comfortable with the scale and rhythm.

4. “Redeemer of Souls” – “Nostradamus”: This modern Judas Priest track features a melodic, yet heavy riff that requires precision and speed. Practice the riff, focusing on the timing and accuracy of each note.

Stay Persistent and Keep Practicing

Learning to play heavy metal Judas Priest on guitar takes time and dedication. Stay persistent, and don’t be discouraged by initial challenges. Keep practicing the techniques and riffs, and gradually, you’ll see your skills improve. As a new player, it’s essential to set realistic goals and celebrate your progress along the way.

Remember, the key to mastering heavy metal guitar is to practice consistently, experiment with different techniques, and most importantly, have fun with the music. Happy playing!