It's Hard -- Reading tabs and soloing

[JakeK]

To JB or Jdog:

As you guys both know, I'm trying to break out of the "strictly rhythm guitar" mode, and trying to do a little soloing. Riffs are easy for me, especially when I learn by ear. I'm trying to read tab, but I don't know how. Could one/both of you tell me how to do it, please?

[sloop_john_b]

Super easy, Jake. The numbers represent the frets. There are six lines going across, which represent the strings.

Tabs do not give you any sort of rhythmic indication - just listen to the song you're learning for that.

[sloop_john_b]

Here's a quick example - the intro to "If I Needed Someone" (capo 7):

e -------------0-------3--2--0-------
B ---3--3--1-----1-----1--1--1--1---
G ---2--2--2--------2-----------------
D --------------------------------------
A --------------------------------------
E --------------------------------------

Notice that the part is all variations of an open D chord shape (sounds in A due to the capo).

[winston]

Here you go Jake. This guy will walk you through what it should sound like after following John's tab, assuming he had a Rick.

[whojamfan]

Pretty cool Brian, and he said Rickenbacker right

[winston]

Pretty cool Brian, and he said Rickenbacker right

He sure did Mike and for not having a Rickenbacker to play, he did alright as far as I am concerned. In fact I think that guy should treat himself to a nice 12 string Rickenbacker because he sure knows how to play guitar.

[scotty]

If at anytime in my life i wear a bandanna put me down.Jake it might be hard right now but i does get easier.I find listening to the song whist reading the tabs is a easier way also.

[wj350]

Hey Jake, here's a primer on reading tab. There are others out there on the web.

How To Read Tab

Cheers, Bill

[jdogric12]

Am I correct to assume you don't read sheet music? If so, tab is probably the best way. Looks like my esteemed colleagues have already provided good answers and resources. Feel free to pm or email me with any specific questions.