19 Play and sing over riffs

We think playing and singing is the most overlooked skill in guitar. Whether you’re singing lead or backing vocals, your voice is a huge asset in enhancing your role as a musician. Learning to play and sing at the same time is actually quite a straightforward process where rhythmic chord playing is concerned; you take your time, start slow and build from there. When riffs are involved it can feel more complicated and very much a ‘rubbing your belly and tapping your head’ scenario. We’ve found a handy three-step way of getting to grips with singing over riffs or even leads.

A Guitar first

Thoroughly learn the riff part you’ll be singing over before you introduce any vocal. You need to have this down confidently first.

B Alphabet

Once you have the guitar side covered, trying singing the alphabet over it while you play. Start quietly and build in volume as you become more confident. Yes, you might feel silly but who cares? You’ll soon be amazing yourself with your double-duty skills.

C Riff repeat

Repetition is key; we cannot stress this enough. Once you’re confidently saying the alphabet over your riff with clarity and consistent speed, it’s time to replace it with the actual vocal melody part. Don’t worry if it feels like a step back at first after the alphabet stage, try humming the melody to ease in. Trust yourself and the process; if you keep repeating it, your muscle memory will not let you down.