Guitarists always talk about down-picking, but have you worked on your up-picking lately? Here's why it could be a game-changer for your playing
Jamie Hunt
created: Aug. 21, 2025, 4:13 p.m. | updated: Aug. 23, 2025, 11:38 p.m.
(Image credit: Future)Having picked the fifth string, the upwards movement stops around the sixth string (but without sounding it).
Notice the hand is a little raised too, escaping the area so the up-pick doesn't continue into the sixth string.
That said, during bar 3's beats 3 and 4 there is a bigger jump from the sixth string to the fourth string.
This requires a bigger picking hand motion so practice this on its own if you're struggling to maintain the jump.
Finally, add picking hand palm muting to provide chunk to the low sixth string E notes for a driving rock riff.
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