Message Board Archive: Thread Number 51

First, I'd like to comment on what a nice site this is--much thanks to
the gentleman who introduced me to it.

Question: do you use your fingernails to pick, or is it strictly meat on
string (that is, if you don't use fingerpicks)? Would it be different if
I played on a classical guitar or an electric guitar (actually I don't
have an acoustic--please don't ban me!)?

I'm relatively new to fingerpicking, so please forgive if this seems
like a silly question.

Thanks much.

Date: Mon, 8 Dec 1997 13:01:29 -0500 (EST)
From: jvtdc@electro-net.com (Doc John)
Subject: Good to see you here, Limp
Message Number: 51.2

I have spent many years developing an acute tactile sense in my fingers,
especially my right hand. So it is uncomfortable to play without picks.
If I did I'm afraid it would decrease my feeling and therefore my
ability to use my fingers. I use plastic fingerpicks because I play
metal body guitars as well as some others I don't want to scratch. I use
a very percussive attack at times, similar to frailing a 5-string banjo
but wilder. Now, when I finger pick a 12-string, it actually is not so
uncomfortable and I can play without picks. I use them when I play
electric. There is a lot of presidence (SP?) for using finger picks, esp
thumb and index. Johnny Winter, Thorogood, Collins all use some version
of finger picks at times on electric.

My suggestion is use both, depending opn what siound youwant and what
feels better. Your feel and preference will develop.

Meanwhile, take care and keep up the hard work.