Play Like: John Mayer | Slapping thumb technique

John Mayer | Top 10 FINGERSTYLE songs | Through the years:

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In this video I am explaining how to play the technique so often used by John Mayer; the Slapping Thumb Technique. Where you slap the bottom strings with your thumb and simultaneously hit higher strings with your index and middle fingers.
Good Luck!

[BenK.]

2:38 There you go. Thats the most important thing. Practice it slowly and again and again and again. When I learned this it was so hard me. It´s really not easy to slap and flick simultaneously in the beginning but eventually your fingers get the hang of it. The notes of these songs are not essentially that difficult but the technique really makes it interesting and driven. Learn it and have fun!

[mathewln]

I've been a classical guitarist for about 15 years and recently started playing fingerstyle as well for something more fun and chill than the sometimes rigid technicality of classical music. I heard this technique (and many others I hadn't tried before) and was really confused for the last week trying to figure out how to do this. Then I watched this video and got it down first try with your style! Thanks so much! You have a great ability to teach all levels my friend!

[jrodri.]

Thank you so much! I'm a 13 year old and have only been playing guitar for about eight months and I can now finally play Stop This Train after practicing this technique vigorously.

[ritikfutela]

You should start to teach fingerstyle arrangements, you seems to be an amazing teacher. BTW amazing video. A big thumbs up.

[mohnarooprajkumar]

Watching this lying on the bed, hoping that I'll be able to play after watching the video

[sandrashermanjazz]

I am a certified guitar teacher and professional guitarist. This is the best lessons I've seen on YouTube so far regarding this technique!

[olep.]

I was looking at tabs and live videos trying to figure it out...nope....and you just explained it. Like that. In. Out. 1. 2.

One of those moments where you both feel stupid and being given the key to the kingdom.

THANK YOU!

[justabeginning]

Even you don’t “actually” learning what is being taught but It feel so amazing to hear John Mayer’s riffs somebody teaching you.
I solute you Sir John Mayer.

[serleth]

Just started trying to do this today, hardest part I'm finding is getting the right tension in the index finger during the twist. Too soft and I don't get any follow through on the hook; too hard, and I hit the string below without wanting to. Also struggling getting a good consistent slap sound. Thumb on its own, no problem. Index on its own, no problem. Combining the two: yikes.

[anthonypolizze]

The details in your teaching is absolutely spot on. I have been playing for over 20 years and recently started finger style playing with actual structure which really makes a difference. Seems I was faking it all along, although I have developed my own style along the way. Keep up the great work and your playing is an inspiration! Much appreciated

[Cristian-ftpw]

You made me smile with that "Here's my tuning" joke. That's why I like your videos. They are more than music. Thanks :)

[geokar]

You sir are a great teacher...
Calm, relaxed and providing good examples while executing the technique in many different speeds.

You've just earned a new sub!

[whatevereyewant]

I love this technique. Took a long time back when I learned it. For the most part, I don't use my ring finger or middle, but after I "flick" with my pointer I almost do a tiny one sting sweep to the next note so I can up stroke it with my pointer. Essentially you use a "claw". I think this is the way John actually plays some of the more basic slap and flick songs like heart of life which is a good starting point for this technique.

[saadaax]

I'm in love with this pattern 😍
No matter what I play... It sounds more beautiful with this pattern.... Thanks to you davids!!!

[clayboi]

Finally someone who explains it in a way I can understand - thank you!

[jfranciskay]

Just started to learn this song and found this. This lesson is so good. Focuses on just what it should...the hard part. And so clear and detailed explanation. Thanks Paul!

[lukerosow]

I've been looking for this video for 15 years.

[TheOfficialMirza]

Can you do a video on harmony? I never attended musical school, I really want to understand the theory so I can play/learn songs by ear more easier.

[gargudon]

Paul, this video helped me understand a technique that otherwise seemed impossible in about 2 minutes! I had seen other videos trying to explain it, but they didn't do it that well. Then you explain it like 1, 2, 3, and suddenly I can play using this just like I can play a G chord. Another reason why you're one of the best guitar instructors / players on YouTube; keep it up! 🎸😎

[ZAUCEi]

I dunno how i got here I don't even have a guitar