Playing over backing tracks is one of the most effective ways to improve on the guitar. I used them for years with my students and I still use them when I practice.
What is a backing track
A backing track is a recording of a song’s instrumental parts — drums, bass, keys and sometimes vocals — without the guitar. That way you’re the one playing the guitar, as if you were in the band.
What they’re good for
- Timing: playing with a real drum part forces you to keep a steady rhythm.
- Repertoire: you learn the rhythms and solos of your favorite songs in the right context.
- Improvisation: a backing track in a fixed key is the best place to try out scales and licks.
- Self-assessment: record yourself playing over it and listen carefully. You’ll quickly hear what already works and what needs more practice.
Where to find backing tracks
- YouTube: search for the song title followed by “backing track” or “guitar backing track”. To improvise, try searches like “backing track A minor” or “blues backing track E”.
- Moises: an app with a free plan that separates the instruments of any song. You can remove the guitar from the original recording and play in its place, or slow the song down without changing the pitch.
My backing tracks
Here on the site you’ll find two, free and with their tabs:
- Portuguese National Anthem (A Portuguesa) on electric guitar
- Game of Thrones theme on electric guitar
If you want ideas for improvising over them, watch the video Guitar improvisation ideas.
Looking for a specific song? On PaidTabs I have over 1,400 guitar and bass transcriptions, transcribed by ear and rated 5/5 from 700+ reviews. Browse on PaidTabs · Can’t find it? Request a transcription.
Courses and ebooks on the way. Leave your email to be the first to know when they’re out — and get new articles and free downloads in the meantime.
