Kirk Hammett: Mastering the Iconic Guitar Style and Sound

Kirk Hammett’s playing style is a distinctive blend of speed, precision, and emotive expression. Known for his fast-paced solos, he often employs techniques such as sweep picking, legato, and tapping. Hammett’s use of the wah pedal is iconic, adding a vocal-like quality to his guitar tone. His approach to melody is influenced by a mix of blues and Eastern scales, giving his solos a unique, haunting quality. This style is evident in solos from songs like “Master of Puppets” and “Fade to Black,” where his ability to balance technical prowess with melodic intuition shines.

1. Minor Pentatonic Scale: This scale is a staple in rock and metal guitar solos. Kirk often employs it for its simplicity and expressive power. Begin by learning the scale in various positions across the fretboard, and practice improvising simple solos to develop fluidity and speed.
2. Fast Picking Techniques: Metallica’s music often features rapid, aggressive picking. Start with alternate picking, ensuring each note is clear and even. Gradually increase speed while maintaining precision. “Master of Puppets” is an excellent example where these skills are essential.
3. String Bending and Vibrato: These techniques are crucial for adding emotion to your playing. Practice bending strings to the correct pitch and apply smooth, controlled vibrato. It’s not just about the technique but also about the feel – try to express emotion through each bend and vibrato.
4. Using the Wah Pedal: Hammett’s use of the wah pedal adds a unique voice-like quality to solos. Practice using the pedal to accentuate certain notes and phrases. It’s about timing and how you integrate the effect with your playing style.
5. Natural Minor Scale: This scale is key to creating moody and melodic solos. Start by learning the scale in different keys and positions. Practice creating licks and phrases within the scale, focusing on melody and expression. This scale is a foundation for constructing solos that have both technical flair and emotional depth.

Remember, mastering Hammett’s style is not just about technical skills, but also about understanding the emotion and energy he brings to his playing. Patience and persistent practice are essential.

To emulate Hammett’s sound, start with a guitar that has a fast neck and active pickups, like the EMG 81/60 set. Use a high-gain amp, preferably a Mesa/Boogie or a Randall, to achieve his signature heavy tone. Incorporate a Dunlop Cry Baby Wah into your setup to replicate his expressive solos. Explore scales like the harmonic minor and Phrygian mode, and practice techniques such as fast picking, tapping, and sweep picking. Remember, while gear is important, much of Hammett’s sound comes from his aggressive playing style and extensive use of the wah pedal.

Hammett’s gear setup is crucial to his sound. He primarily uses ESP guitars, particularly the ESP KH-2 “Mummy” and the ESP KH-3 Eclipse. His preference for EMG pickups, especially the EMG 81/60 combo, contributes to his sharp, high-gain tone. He’s also known for using a variety of effect pedals, with the Dunlop Cry Baby Wah being a staple in his rig. For amplification, Kirk often relies on Mesa/Boogie and Randall amplifiers, which provide the heavy, distorted sound characteristic of Metallica’s music.

Below we have added a few products listed here at Get My Guitar that will get you that classic sound for a variety of budgets:

Featured Products on Get My Guitar:

• Gibson Kirk Hammett LP Standard Greeny Burst W/C: Experience the power of Metallica with the Gibson Kirk Hammett LP Standard in Greeny Burst. Perfect for both collectors and performers, this guitar boasts exceptional craftsmanship and the signature sound Kirk is known for.

• ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-3 Spider Electric Guitar W/C: Embrace the iconic Metallica sound with the ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-3 Spider. This guitar combines aesthetic appeal with high-quality sound, ideal for aspiring shredders.

• ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH602 Electric Guitar W/C Purple Sparkle: Stand out on stage with the stunning ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH602 in Purple Sparkle. This guitar is not just a looker – it delivers the crushing tones and playability Kirk is famous for.

• Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V Purple Metallic W/C: Capture the essence of Kirk’s dynamic playing with the Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V. This Purple Metallic beauty is a tribute to both the man and the music.

• Randall KH75 Kirk Hammett Signature Amplifier: The Randall KH75 Kirk Hammett Signature Amplifier is a powerhouse for guitarists seeking the Metallica sound. This 1×12”, 75-watt combo amp boasts two channels, with the overdrive channel featuring dual gains, a voicing switch, and contour control, offering a wide range of tonal possibilities.

Hammett’s influences are rooted in classic rock and metal. He has cited guitarists like Jimi Hendrix, Joe Satriani (who also taught him), Michael Schenker, and Uli Jon Roth as major influences on his playing. His style also reflects elements of blues and jazz, indicative of a diverse musical palette. In turn, Hammett has influenced a generation of metal guitarists. His fast, intricate soloing and use of effects have become a blueprint for many modern metal players.

Kirk Hammett’s influence on the world of metal guitar is nothing short of monumental. As a core member of Metallica, his contributions have shaped not only the band’s sound but the entire genre of metal itself. His blend of speed, precision, and emotional depth in his playing, along with his innovative use of the wah pedal, have set a standard for metal guitarists everywhere. Hammett’s journey from a young guitarist inspired by the likes of Hendrix and Satriani to becoming an icon in his own right underscores the transformative power of music and dedication.

For anyone looking to delve into the world of metal guitar, studying Hammett’s techniques and gear is essential. His legacy is not just as a lead guitarist but as a musician who has continually pushed the boundaries of what metal can be, making the early 90s a pivotal era in the history of music with Metallica leading the charge. His impact continues to resonate, inspiring new generations of guitarists to pick up their instruments and play with passion and intensity.

This post is part of our ongoing series, “Mastering the Iconic Guitar Sound,” where we dive deep into the styles and techniques of legendary guitarists. For more insights and tips on becoming a better guitarist, be sure to explore the Get My Guitar blog, where we cover everything from gear recommendations to detailed breakdowns of iconic guitar sounds.