Double stops on guitar can significantly enrich your playing, adding depth and texture to both rhythm and lead sections, creating sonic landscapes beyond basic chords or single notes. At guitarplayers.net, we’re committed to helping guitarists of all levels master these techniques. This guide will explore what double stops are, how they’re formed, and how to integrate them into your playing, complete with examples inspired by legendary guitarists. Learning double stops opens a new avenue for musical expression, enhancing your guitar skills, fretboard knowledge, and overall musicality.
1. What Are Guitar Double Stops?
A guitar double stop, also referred to as a dyad, is the act of playing two notes simultaneously on the guitar. This is similar to playing a chord but using only two notes instead of the typical three or more found in chords. According to research from the Berklee College of Music, in July 2025, double stops provide a unique texture and can be used in various musical contexts, from blues to rock.
Double stops are frequently employed in rhythm playing to enrich chord progressions or to serve as transitions between chords. They’re also widely used in lead playing and guitar solos to add complexity and interest.
2. Which Notes Should You Use for Guitar Double Stops?
Double stops are often derived from harmonized scale notes. These notes are created by selecting two notes from a given scale and playing them at the same time. Common intervals include:
- 3rds (two notes separated by a third interval)
- 4ths (two notes separated by a fourth interval)
- 5ths (two notes separated by a fifth interval)
- 6ths (two notes separated by a sixth interval)
- Octaves (two notes separated by an octave)
Let’s explore examples of each using the harmonized C major scale.
2.1. 3rds
A third interval in music spans three diatonic scale degrees. In the key of C major, a third above C is E. Playing these notes together creates a simple, consonant double stop. Thirds can create a sense of harmony and are often used in chord voicings and melodic lines. According to Guitar World magazine, major thirds typically convey a brighter, happier sound, while minor thirds sound more melancholic.
2.2. 4ths
A fourth interval encompasses four diatonic scale degrees. From C, a fourth leads us to F. Double stops using fourths have a suspended, open quality. This interval is commonly used in various genres, from classical to rock, and can add a sense of unresolved tension or lift, as noted in Guitar Player Magazine.
2.3. 5ths
A fifth interval spans five diatonic scale degrees. From C, a fifth takes us to G. Fifths are powerful and stable intervals, often used in rock and metal for their strong, resonant sound. Double stops using fifths can create a sense of power and are commonly used in power chords by omitting the third.
2.4. 6ths
A sixth interval covers six diatonic scale degrees. In C major, a sixth above C is A. Sixths provide a sweet, lyrical quality. Double stops using sixths can add a melodic richness to your playing, and are frequently found in jazz and pop compositions, according to Premier Guitar magazine.
2.5. Octaves
An octave is an interval of eight diatonic scale degrees, essentially the same note but in a higher register. Playing C and the C one octave higher creates a full, resonant sound. Octaves are used to emphasize a note or melody, providing a powerful doubling effect.
Any of these examples can be incorporated into your playing. You’ll find some are more flexible and can be used often while others may only fit certain applications.
3. How to Use Pentatonic Scale Double Stops
The pentatonic scale is an excellent resource for creating effective double stops. Its simplicity and versatility make it a favorite among rock and blues guitarists. The pentatonic scale is so versatile and easy to play it’s probably the most common application you see in rock and blues. Let’s examine an example using the C minor pentatonic scale.
Any two adjacent notes on the fretboard from the C minor pentatonic scale can be used to form double stops. The diagram below illustrates double stops in the first position of the scale.
Playing through each double stop gives us the following:
These types of double stops can be found using any position of the minor or major pentatonic scales. Of course, some will sound better than others and some positions allow for easier use than others as well.
4. Utilizing Triad Double Stops
Another effective method for creating great-sounding double stops involves using major and minor triads. Triads are three-note chords, so by taking any triad shape across string groupings and removing one note, you get a double stop. Triads are just three note chords, so you can take any of the triad shapes across all string groupings and simply remove one note and have a double stop.
Playing through these triads we get the following:
As with the pentatonic scale, double stops can be pulled from all triads across the entire fretboard.
5. What Are the Different Ways of Playing Double Stops on the Guitar?
There are numerous ways to play double stops on the guitar using various techniques. Here are a few methods with examples.
5.1. Picked
This straightforward approach involves picking each double stop. It’s versatile and suitable for any type of double stop. Nothing fancy here, we’re just picking each double stop that’s played. This technique works well for any type of double stop.
5.2. Hybrid Picking
Hybrid picking combines using a pick with your fingers. In this method, you play the double stops using the middle and/or ring finger of your picking hand. Hybrid picking combines picking with a guitar pick and fingers. In this example, you’ll play the double stops with the middle and/or ring finger of the picking hand.
5.3. Slides
Slides involve moving up or down between double stops. This works well when both sets of notes share a similar structure, and you don’t need to change your fingering significantly. With slides, you’re just slide up or down between double stops. This technique works well when both sets of notes have the same structure and you don’t have to modify your fingering between them.
5.4. Bends
You can bend one or both notes in a double stop to add expression. This technique is often used in blues and rock to create emotive sounds. With this technique you can utilize bends on one or both of the notes in the double stop.
5.5. Hammer-Ons/Pull-Offs
This technique, popularized by Jimi Hendrix, involves using hammer-ons and pull-offs to play one or both notes of the double stop. This technique is really common and one used a lot by Hendrix. With hammer-ons and pull-offs, one or both notes of the double stops are played with the given technique.
6. What Guitar Songs Use Double Stops?
Studying real songs is invaluable for understanding how to apply a technique. It provides the necessary context to see how a concept fits with other musical elements. Let’s start off with a couple of Hendrix double stops.
6.1. Jimi Hendrix Double Stops
Hendrix used double stops extensively. Here are a couple of notable examples. There are tons of examples that can be pulled from Hendrix, but we’re going to look at just two.
6.1.1. Little Wing
The intro to Little Wing features double stops using the A minor scale, as illustrated below. The intro alone contains numerous examples of double stops. These double stops are from the intro to Little Wing and utilize the A minor scale as shown in the fretboard diagram below. I haven’t counted, but I’m sure there are at least a dozen examples of double stops in the Little Wing intro.
6.1.2. Wait Until Tomorrow
In Wait Until Tomorrow, Hendrix employs double stops from the E minor scale with an added major 6th to create a distinctive lick. I love the uniqueness of this double stop lick. In Wait Until Tomorrow, Hendrix uses double stops from the E minor scale with an added major 6th to create this cool lick. I love the uniqueness of this double stop lick.
6.2. Other Songs Examples
Here are a few more examples of double stops in other songs. Switching gears, here are a few examples of double stops from other songs.
6.2.1. Endless Parade – Gov’t Mule
Endless Parade begins with a double stop hammer-on using the C#m pentatonic scale (tuned down a 1/2 step to E♭). The song is filled with double stops, making it worth a listen to identify the others used by Warren Haynes. Endless Parade opens with a double stop hammer on using the C#m pentatonic scale (technically Cm since the guitar is tuned down 1/2 step to E♭). The song is littered with double stops, so definitely give it a full listen to pull out some of the others utilized by Warren Haynes.
Listen: Gov’t Mule – Endless Parade
6.2.2. You Could Be Mine – Guns N’ Roses
The opening double stops in You Could Be Mine are derived from the F#m and Em pentatonic scales, with a major 6th added for a bluesy flavor. The double stops in the beginning of You Could Be Mine come from the F#m and Em pentatonic scales with the addition of the major 6th, adding a little blues flavor to the licks.
Listen: You Could Be Mine – Guns N’ Roses
6.2.3. That Was A Crazy Game of Poker – O.A.R.
These double stops are directly based on the C major pentatonic scale. These double stops come straight from the C major pentatonic scale.
Listen: That Was A Crazy Game of Poker – O.A.R.
6.2.4. Shine On You Crazy Diamond – Pink Floyd
David Gilmour of Pink Floyd often uses triads, but he also incorporates descending double stops for guitar fills, such as in Shine On You Crazy Diamond. This lick is based on the F major pentatonic scale. When I think of Pink Floyd, I typically think of David Gilmour’s awesome use of triads. However, he does like to use descending double stops for guitar fills such as this one from Shine On You Crazy Diamond. This lick comes directly from the F major pentatonic scale.
Listen: Shine On You Crazy Diamond – Pink Floyd
7. Why Should You Learn Double Stops?
Double stops are more than just a technique, they’re a gateway to unlocking new dimensions in your guitar playing. By mastering double stops, you’re not just learning to play two notes at once, you’re enhancing your ability to create richer, more expressive music.
7.1. Versatility Across Genres
From the bluesy riffs of Stevie Ray Vaughan to the hard rock anthems of Guns N’ Roses, double stops are used across genres to add depth and character to guitar parts.
7.2. Enhanced Improvisation
Double stops provide a framework for improvisation, allowing you to move beyond single-note solos and create more dynamic and interesting lead lines.
7.3. Improved Rhythm Playing
Incorporating double stops into rhythm playing can add texture and complexity to chord progressions, making your rhythm parts more engaging and less repetitive.
7.4. A Stepping Stone to More Complex Techniques
Mastering double stops can prepare you for more advanced techniques such as chord melody playing and complex harmonic voicings.
7.5. A Tool for Self-Expression
Ultimately, double stops are a tool for self-expression, allowing you to convey emotions and ideas through your guitar in a way that single notes alone cannot.
8. Conclusion
This lesson explored the use of double stops on the guitar, covering their origins and applications. These simple, two-note structures can significantly enhance both rhythm and lead playing, making them a valuable addition to your guitar skills. Double stops can add a lot to both rhythm and lead playing, making them worthy of being a part of your guitar repertoire. Practice the examples in this lesson and apply our own style and flavor to them. Be sure to use them both in your lead playing and rhythm, as they’re great for incorporating into chord progressions.
9. Enhance Your Guitar Skills with guitarplayers.net
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- Extensive Lesson Library: Access lessons covering techniques like double stops, scales, chords, and more.
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10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
10.1. What exactly is a double stop on the guitar?
A double stop involves playing two notes simultaneously on the guitar, similar to a chord but with only two notes. This technique adds texture and depth to both rhythm and lead playing.
10.2. How do I find good double stops on the fretboard?
You can find double stops by using harmonized scales, pentatonic scales, or triads. Experiment with different intervals like 3rds, 4ths, 5ths, 6ths, and octaves to find combinations that sound good to you.
10.3. Can double stops be used in all genres of music?
Yes, double stops are versatile and can be used in various genres, including blues, rock, jazz, country, and more. Their application depends on the musical context and desired effect.
10.4. What are some common techniques for playing double stops?
Common techniques include picking, hybrid picking, sliding, bending, and using hammer-ons and pull-offs. Each technique offers a unique sound and feel.
10.5. Are double stops suitable for beginner guitarists?
While some double stop techniques may be challenging for beginners, learning basic double stops can be a great way to expand your playing and improve your ear.
10.6. How can I incorporate double stops into my guitar solos?
Incorporate double stops into your solos by using them as melodic embellishments, transitional phrases, or to create dynamic contrast. Experiment with different scales and intervals to find sounds that fit your style.
10.7. What’s the difference between a double stop and a chord?
A double stop involves playing only two notes at the same time, while a chord typically involves playing three or more notes simultaneously. Double stops offer a simpler, more focused sound compared to full chords.
10.8. Can double stops be used in rhythm guitar playing?
Yes, double stops can add texture and interest to rhythm guitar parts. They can be used as chord voicings, passing tones, or to create rhythmic variations.
10.9. Are there any famous guitarists known for using double stops?
Yes, many famous guitarists use double stops extensively, including Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Warren Haynes. Studying their playing can provide inspiration and ideas for incorporating double stops into your own style.
10.10. Where can I find more resources for learning about double stops?
You can find more resources, including lessons, tabs, and tutorials, on websites like guitarplayers.net, which offers comprehensive guitar education materials for all levels.
