Welcome to our guide on How To Use Guitar Backing Tracks. If you’re reading this article, chances are that you’ve already dipped your toes into the world of guitar backing tracks. And if you haven’t yet, let me tell you – they can be an absolute game changer for anyone looking to improve their playing skills and take their musical journey to the next level.
As someone who’s been using guitar backing tracks for years now, I can confidently say that they’ve helped me become a better player by leaps and bounds. Whether it’s practicing solos or improvising over chord progressions, having a solid backing track as accompaniment has made all the difference in my ability to hone my skills and develop my own sound.
In this full guide on how to use guitar backing tracks effectively, we’ll cover everything from choosing the right tracks and adjusting tempos to making them work for different genres and styles.
So grab your guitars and get ready to learn some new tricks!
Benefits Of Using Guitar Backing Tracks
Hey there fellow guitar players! If you’re looking to take your practice sessions up a notch, then backing tracks are the way to go.
These tracks provide an excellent platform for practicing and mastering various songs, genres, chords, scales and tempos on your guitar. 
With backing tracks, you can explore different music styles without needing anyone else to play along with you. You’ll have access to a variety of pre-recorded tracks that will help you improve your timing, rhythm and soloing skills.
Whether you’re into rock, blues, jazz or country music – there’s a backing track out there for every genre. No matter what level of expertise you currently possess as a guitar player, backing tracks can significantly boost your confidence and skill set.
So why not give them a try?
Different Types Of Backing Tracks Available
Are you ready to take your guitar playing skills to the next level? Guitar backing tracks are a game-changer! With different genres, chord progressions, key signatures and keys, you can jam along with different styles of music. You’ll be able to practice complex scales or try out new techniques without feeling like you’re alone in the process.
Here are some types of backing tracks available for free online:
- Jam Tracks: These instrumental pieces have no lead guitar track so that you can play the melody yourself.
- Different Genres: Rock, blues, jazz – there is a never-ending list of musical genres to choose from!
- Different Styles: Funky grooves, soulful ballads, heavy metal riffs – pick any style that suits your mood.
- Virtual Instruments: Some websites offer virtual instruments such as drums and basslines so that you can create an entire band sound.
- Free Guitar Backing Tracks: There are plenty of high-quality tracks available for free online!
Now that we’ve covered various types of guitar backing tracks let’s talk about how to use them effectively.
Where To Find Backing Tracks Online
Now that you know the different types of backing tracks available, it’s time to dive into where to find them online. As a musician myself, I’ve spent countless hours scouring the internet for high-quality backing tracks to practice and play along with.
One of the best resources for finding backing tracks is YouTube. Simply search for your favorite song followed by ‘backing track’ or ‘instrumental version’ and you’ll likely find numerous options. You can also filter your search by specific genres or styles to narrow down your results.
Many musicians even create their own custom backing tracks and upload them to YouTube, so don’t be afraid to get creative with your searches! Additionally, there are websites dedicated solely to providing free backing tracks in various keys and scales for guitarists and other instrumentalists alike. Some popular sites include JamTracksGuitar.com, GuitarBackingTrack.com, and FreeJamTracks.com. Full list further down. 
Finding quality backing tracks online can take some time and effort, but it’s well worth it in terms of improving your skills as a musician. Whether you’re practicing chords or working on soloing over a particular scale, having access to a variety of backing tracks in different styles will help expand your musical abilities.
So start exploring the vast world of online backing tracks today!
Best Websites for Guitar Backing Tracks
Although some says(paid), many do offer Free Trial Options
- LickLibrary (paid)
- Epidemicsound.com (free trial)
- YouTube (Search for YouTube Audio Library free)
- Karaoke-Version (Freemium – Best for All Backing Tracks)
- BackingTracksPro (paid)
- Ultimate-Guitar (paid)
- Steve’s Trax Backing Tracks (paid)
- Backtrackit App (freemium)
- GuitarToneMaster (free)
- GuitarMaps (free)
- GuitarVoice.com (free)
- SoundCloud (paid)
- GuitarVoice.com (free)
- Pond5 (freemium)
- Fiverr (Done For You Service)
- Amazon: https://amzn.to/3XPsz4Y
For More Backing Track Services: Have a look here. (Free Signup)
How To Choose The Right Backing Track For Your Skill Level
Alright, let’s talk about choosing the perfect backing track for your skill level. It can be quite daunting to pick one out of the sea of options available online, but don’t worry! As someone who has been using guitar backing tracks for years now, I have some tips and tricks up my sleeve.
Firstly, consider your current skill level when selecting a track. If you’re just starting out with guitar playing, it’s best to look for simple chord progressions in keys that are easy to play.
On the other hand, if you’re an experienced player looking for a challenge during practice sessions, go ahead and choose more complex tracks with intricate bass lines and unique chord structures.
Additionally, try to find popular songs that feature familiar chord progressions so that you can focus on improving your technique without getting bogged down by unfamiliar melodies.
Keep these factors in mind while browsing through different backing tracks online and before you know it, you’ll have found the perfect match for your needs!
Now that we’ve covered how to choose a backing track based on your skill level – let me give you an example of what kind of things to keep in mind while making this selection:
Let’s say you’re a beginner at guitar playing- start with a simple rock or blues progression in E minor or A major key.
For intermediate players – 80s pop hits like Toto’s “Africa” featuring interesting chord progressions will make excellent choices.
More advanced players should look into jazz fusion pieces like Chick Corea’s ‘Spain’ which showcase complex basslines and intricate rhythm sections.
Always remember that choosing the right backing track is essential if you want effective practice sessions and steady improvements towards mastery over time!
How To Set Up Your Practice Space
When it comes to using guitar backing tracks, it’s important to have a proper practice space set up. This will not only make your jam sessions more enjoyable, but also help you develop your skills faster.
The first thing you need to consider is time – how much of it can you dedicate to practicing? Make sure that the space you choose allows for uninterrupted playing and that you’re able to focus without any distractions.
Another key factor is having the right tool for the job – in this case, a reliable audio playback device or app. There are plenty of options out there with varying levels of sophistication and in-app purchases, so do some research before committing.
Also keep in mind whether you plan on using these tracks for live performances or just personal practice as certain apps may be better suited for one over the other. Once you’ve found an appropriate tool, make sure to incorporate it into your practice routine regularly so that the audio element becomes second nature when playing your instrument.
Tips For Incorporating Backing Tracks Into Your Practice Routine
When it comes to incorporating backing tracks into your practice routine, there are a few tips and tricks that I have found particularly helpful.
First off, the best way to get started is by finding software or an app that will allow you to easily access different tracks and adjust the sound or rhythm as needed. There are plenty of options out there for both acoustic and electric guitar players.
One thing I love about using backing tracks is that they can be incredibly versatile depending on what kind of music you’re interested in playing. For example, if you’re a jazz guitarist looking to improve your chord changes, you might want to focus on finding high-quality multitrack recordings that emphasize those progressions. On the other hand, if you’re more interested in rock or blues styles, you may want to look for tracks that emphasize lead guitar techniques like bending and vibrato.
Here are just a few more tips for making the most of this incredible resource:
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Take advantage of online communities where people share their own custom-made backing tracks
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Experiment with different tempos and keys to find what works best for your skill level
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Use headphones when practicing with backing tracks to really focus on the nuances of the sound
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Consider investing in some quality effects pedals to take your electric guitar sound to the next level
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Don’t be afraid to make mistakes – remember, these tracks are meant for practice!
Improving Your Timing And Rhythm With Backing Tracks
Have you ever watched a band perform and noticed how the rhythm section seems to be locked in together? The drummer, bassist, and keyboard player all seem to move as one unit, while the guitarist is free to add their own flair with licks and solos. This cohesion doesn’t happen by accident – it’s the result of practice and playing together over time.
Using backing tracks can help guitarists improve their timing and rhythm by simulating the experience of playing with a full band. Instead of just practicing your parts on their own, try playing along with some blues or rock backing tracks that include drums, bass, and other instruments.
As you play through different sections of the track, pay attention to how each part fits together – for example, notice how the drum fills lead into different sections of the song. Try experimenting with different rhythms and patterns within the major scale to see what works best with each section.
By doing this regularly, you’ll start to develop an intuitive sense of how different parts fit together in a song.
Learning New Techniques Through Backing Tracks
Now that you have improved your timing and rhythm with backing tracks, it is time to take things to the next level by learning new techniques through these musical accompaniments.
One of the best ways to do this is by creating your own backing tracks. This will not only allow you to experiment with different chord progressions and styles but also help you understand how music works on a deeper level. 
When creating your own backing tracks, start simple by choosing a key and a chord progression. From there, add in some lead guitar lines or arpeggios to complement the chords.
If you want to challenge yourself further, try using less common scales like the minor key or getting jazzy with some seventh chords. By experimenting with different ideas and techniques, you can create custom backing tracks tailored specifically to your skill level and interests, ultimately taking your playing to new heights.
So don’t be afraid to dive in and start exploring!
Exploring Different Genres Of Music With Backing Tracks
Alright, guitarists! Now that you know the basics of using backing tracks for musical accompaniment and lead playing, it’s time to explore different genres.
The beauty of backing tracks is that they can be found in almost any genre imaginable – from rock to blues to pop and beyond. One great way to start exploring different styles is by searching for specific keywords such as ‘jazzy’ or ‘minor key’. This will help narrow down your options and give you a better idea of what type of track you’re looking for.
Once you’ve found a few tracks that catch your ear, try experimenting with them using multitrack recording software and plugins. This allows you to mix the levels of each instrument individually, giving you complete control over the final sound.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your mixing – adding effects like distortion or reverb can really make your lead guitar stand out against the progression. With enough practice, you’ll soon find yourself branching out into new genres and mastering even more complex techniques.
So keep on jamming with those backing tracks!
Creating Your Own Backing Tracks
As we explored different genres of music with backing tracks, you may have noticed that each genre has its unique style and sound. However, the beauty of using guitar backing tracks is that you can create your own music while experimenting with various genres.
Creating your own backing tracks is a lot easier than you might think, especially when utilizing free guitar track apps and sheet music available online. Additionally, digital audio workstations (DAW) like GarageBand offer an easy-to-use platform for creating personalized sessions.
With these tools at your disposal, let’s dive into some tips on how to make your very own backing tracks:
- Start by selecting a chord progression: Choose a few chords that complement one another and loop them together.
- Add drums or percussion: This will help set the rhythm of your track and give it more structure.
- Experiment with melodies: Try playing around with different notes until you find something that sounds good over the chord progression.
With these steps in mind, go ahead and experiment with making your own backing tracks! Don’t be afraid to try new things and explore different techniques – after all, this is what sets apart true experts from beginners.
See Here: How to Make Your Own Backing Tracks
Recording Your Playing With Backing Tracks For Feedback
Now that you’ve got your guitar backing tracks set up and you’re comfortable playing along with them, it’s time to take things to the next level. Recording yourself playing with these tracks is a great way to get feedback on your performance and improve your skills as a guitarist.
First off, let me say that recording yourself doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With just a few basic tools like a computer, an audio interface, and some decent speakers (either studio monitors or live sound speakers), you can start capturing your performances in no time.
Once you’ve got everything connected, make sure to EQ your guitar tone so that it sits nicely in the mix with the backing track. From there, hit record and play away!
When reviewing your recordings, pay close attention to how well you’re locking in with the drummer and whether any parts of your solo or arpeggios need more work. Taking notes on overall reviews will help guide future practice sessions and elevate your playing even further. 
Remember: recording yourself is all about improving as a musician- don’t worry too much about making everything perfect right off the bat! With each new recording session comes new opportunities for growth and experimentation. So go out there, have fun, and keep pushing yourself towards mastery!
Collaborating With Other Musicians
So, you’ve been using guitar backing tracks to hone your skills and now you’re ready to take it to the next level. Collaboration with other musicians can be an incredible experience when done right.
With the help of stereo mixing techniques and proper communication, you’ll find that creating music together is easier than ever.
One key aspect of collaborating with others using backing tracks is ensuring that everyone is on the same page regarding tempo and key. This can easily be achieved by sending a reference track or metronome click to each musician’s device (such as an iPad) before beginning the session.
Another important consideration is the mix; it’s crucial for everyone participating in the performance to hear themselves clearly through their own monitoring system whether it be headphones or front-of-house speakers. To achieve this, make sure each instrument has its own dedicated channel in the mix, including kick drum and bass which are often overlooked.
By panning instruments appropriately and utilizing mono versus stereo effects (like half-diminished chords), you can create a full sound that allows each player’s unique contribution to shine through.
When collaborating effectively with other musicians using backing tracks, anything is possible. Don’t let fear hold you back from reaching out to fellow players and discovering new sounds together. Remember, good communication combined with technical skill will always result in amazing performances – so go ahead and give it a try!
Troubleshooting Common Issues When Using Backing Tracks
Have you ever encountered any problems when using guitar backing tracks? Don’t worry, it’s not just you! Many musicians face issues with these tracks. However, there are some common troubleshooting techniques that can help you overcome these obstacles and make the most out of your practice or performance.
One of the most common issues is timing. If the track doesn’t match the tempo or rhythm of your playing, it can throw off your whole performance.
To solve this problem, try adjusting the speed of the track to match your playing pace. You can use software like Audacity to change the tempo without affecting pitch. Alternatively, you can also find another backing track that matches your desired speed and style better.
With a little bit of experimentation and patience, you’ll eventually find one that works perfectly for you!
Taking Your Playing To The Next Level
Alright, you’re ready to take your guitar playing to the next level. You’ve gone through the basics and can play a few songs, but now it’s time to add some flavor and really make those notes sing.
This is where guitar backing tracks come in handy. Using backing tracks allows you to create an environment that mimics playing with other musicians. It gives you a chance to practice improvising, soloing, and trying out new techniques without feeling like you’re out of place or off beat.
The beauty of using these tracks is that they offer endless possibilities for creativity – from rock riffs to blues jams, country twangs to jazz grooves. With so many genres available at your fingertips, there’s no excuse not to experiment and explore different styles with gusto.
So grab your guitar, pick your favorite genre and start jamming along with some awesome backing tracks! And don’t be afraid to challenge yourself by speeding up the tempo or trying new chord progressions. Remember that practice makes perfect – even if it doesn’t always sound amazing at first! 
Keep pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone and before long you’ll notice significant improvement in both your technical skills and confidence as a musician. Trust me when I say this: once you get into using guitar backing tracks regularly, it’ll become second nature – just like riding a bike.
So what are you waiting for? Get started on taking your playing up a notch today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Create My Own Backing Tracks?
Creating your own backing tracks is like painting a canvas with the colors of your musical imagination. It’s a chance to express yourself in ways that only you can understand, and to share those emotions with others through your guitar playing.
As an expert in guitar backing tracks, I know how important it is for musicians to have complete control over their music, from the rhythm section to the lead melodies. That’s why creating your own custom backing tracks can be such a rewarding experience.
With just a few simple tools and some creativity, you can craft unique accompaniments that showcase your skills as a guitarist and help you achieve mastery over your instrument.
So if you’re ready to unlock new levels of creative expression on the guitar, let me show you how easy it is to create your own killer backing tracks today!
See Here: How to Make Your Own Backing Tracks
Can I Use Backing Tracks For Live Performances?
So, you’re wondering if you can use backing tracks for live performances? The answer is a resounding yes!
In fact, many professional musicians use backing tracks to enhance their live shows and create a fuller sound. Whether you’re playing in a band or going solo, incorporating backing tracks into your performance can take it to the next level.
Of course, there are some things to keep in mind when using them – make sure they’re high-quality, practice with them beforehand, and always have a backup plan just in case. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to rock out with confidence knowing that your performance will be unforgettable.
Are There Any Copyright Issues With Using Backing Tracks?
Hey guys, if you’re like me and love using guitar backing tracks in your performances or practice sessions, then you might be wondering about the copyright issues that come along with it.
Well, let me tell you from experience – there can definitely be some legal concerns when it comes to using backing tracks that aren’t properly licensed.
As an expert in this field, I always recommend making sure you have the rights to use any track before incorporating it into your work.
Trust me, avoiding any potential legal troubles will save you a lot of headache and hassle down the line.
So be smart and do your research beforehand!
What Is The Difference Between A Backing Track And A Metronome?
So, what’s the deal with backing tracks and metronomes?
As a guitar backing tracks expert, I can tell you that many people get these two confused.
While they both serve as tools to help musicians practice their timing and rhythm, there are some key differences between them.
A metronome simply provides a steady pulse or beat for the musician to follow, while a backing track is essentially a full band recording without the lead instrument (in this case, the guitar).
Backing tracks offer more context and allow for practicing playing along with other instruments and styles of music.
Understanding the difference between these two tools is crucial for anyone looking to improve their playing skills!
Can Backing Tracks Be Used For Practicing Singing As Well As Guitar Playing?
I can confidently say that yes, absolutely – backing tracks are fantastic for practicing singing as well as guitar playing.
In fact, using a backing track while singing is an excellent way to improve your timing and pitch accuracy. It’s also incredibly helpful for working on phrasing and dynamics when you’re performing with a band or recording vocals in the studio.
Whether you’re jamming out to your favorite tunes or rehearsing original songs, incorporating high-quality backing tracks into your practice routine will take your skills to the next level. Trust me, once you experience the benefits of using backing tracks for both guitar and vocal practice, you won’t want to go back!
As an expert in guitar backing tracks, I hope this guide has helped you understand the benefits of using them for practicing and performing. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, these tracks can enhance your playing by providing a solid foundation to build upon.
But remember, creating your own unique backing tracks takes time and effort. It’s like planting a seed and watching it grow into something beautiful – it requires patience and dedication. And just like how every tree is different, your backing tracks will be too.
They’ll reflect your personal style and creativity, adding depth and complexity to your performances. So go ahead, experiment with different genres and instruments. Play around with tempo and rhythm until you find the perfect blend that fits your musical vision.
With enough practice and determination, you’ll create something truly special that showcases not only your skills but also your passion for music. Keep strumming those strings!