What does 7h8 5 mean in Guitar Tabs?
You will commonly see things like 6p5, 7h8 , 6b8. This means you'll be playing the 6th fret, pulling off to the 5th fret, doing a hammer-on from the 7th to 8th fret and then playing the 6th fret and bending the string so that it sounds as if it's from the 8th fret.
Understanding the Basics of Guitar Tab Notations
Guitar tablature, or "tabs," is a simplified form of music notation for guitar players. Unlike traditional sheet music, tabs focus on fret numbers rather than musical notes, showing exactly where to place your fingers on the fretboard. Let’s dive into these key tab symbols and how to use them:
1. What Does 7h8 Mean in Guitar Tabs?
The notation 7h8 represents a hammer-on technique. Here’s how to play it:
- Step 1: Pluck the note on the 7th fret.
- Step 2: "Hammer" your finger onto the 8th fret, producing a second note without re-plucking the string.
The hammer-on allows you to connect notes smoothly, creating a seamless, expressive sound. Common in solos and riffs, this technique is foundational in genres like rock, blues, and metal.
2. What Does 6p5 Mean in Guitar Tabs?
The 6p5 notation stands for a pull-off. Here’s how to execute it:
- Step 1: Place fingers on the 6th and 5th frets of the string.
- Step 2: Play the 6th fret, then pull your finger off the 6th fret to let the 5th fret note ring out naturally.
The pull-off is the reverse of a hammer-on, letting you transition smoothly between higher and lower notes without picking. It’s perfect for creating flowing phrases and adding speed to your playing.
3. What Does 6b8 Mean in Guitar Tabs?
The notation 6b8 refers to a bend. Here’s how to perform it:
- Step 1: Play the 6th fret.
- Step 2: Push or pull the string up (or down) until the note reaches the pitch of the 8th fret.
Bends add emotional depth and are a staple of expressive guitar playing, often used to emphasize notes in solos and melodic lines.
Putting It All Together: What Does 7h8 5 Mean?
When you see a sequence like 7h8 5 in guitar tabs, it tells you to:
- Hammer-on from 7 to 8: Play the 7th fret, then hammer onto the 8th.
- Play the 5th fret: Follow up by playing the 5th fret on a different string or the same string, depending on the tab.
This combination adds dynamic, smooth transitions, commonly used in licks and phrases to make the music feel more connected.