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Rhythm guitar
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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Rhythm guitar is the use of an electric guitar or acoustic guitar to provide rhythmic chordal accompaniment for a singer or other instruments in an ensemble. In rock, blues, or metal bands, the guitarist playing rhythm guitar supports the melodic lines and improvised solos played by the guitarist performing the lead guitar part.
The role of rhythm guitar is to provide the pulse or rhythm for a song, and to provide harmony that supports the other instruments or voices. In contrast, the lead guitar is used to perform melodies, countermelodies, and solo improvisations. The rhythm guitarist, bass guitarist, and drummer usually constitute the rhythm section in a rock band.
In rock music, the rhythm guitarist is typically expected to play a sequence of chords, called a chord progression, around which the song is constructed. In some cases, this is simplified to a sequence of two or three notes, sometimes called a "riff", that is repeated.
In metal music, this is typically extended to more complex sequences consisting of a combination of chords, single notes and palm muted parts, while the more technical bands often play riffs which may use lead guitar techniques. In jazz or swing music, the rhythm guitarist may also integrate a walking bass line or a counter-melody.
In some bands with two guitars, the two guitarists may exchange roles in different songs or sections. In bands with a single guitarist, the guitarist may play lead and rhythm at different times. The rhythm guitarist may also sing backing vocals or lead vocals.
Rhythm guitarists usually aim to generate a stronger rhythmic and chordal sound, in contrast to the lead guitarists' goal of producing a sustained, high-pitched melody line that can be heard over top of the band. As a result, rhythm and lead players may use different guitars and amplifiers.
Rhythm guitarists may employ an electric acoustic guitar or a humbucker-equipped electric guitar for a richer and fatter output. Also, rhythm guitarists may use strings of a larger gauge than those used by lead guitarists. However, while these may be practices, they are not necessarily the rule and is subject to the style of the song and the preference of the individual guitarist.