How Do You Play "Knock on Wood" on Guitar Like a Pro?

“Knock on Wood” on guitar is a fantastic way to delve into soul and R&B guitar playing, offering a blend of catchy rhythms and bluesy licks that are accessible to many skill levels. At guitarplayers.net, we aim to guide guitarists of all levels with easy-to-follow lessons, chord guides, and song tutorials, making guitar playing enjoyable and achievable. Ready to tap into your inner soul guitarist? Let’s get started!

1. What Is “Knock on Wood” and Why Is It a Great Song to Learn on Guitar?

“Knock on Wood” is more than just a classic tune; it’s a fundamental lesson in rhythm, blues, and soul guitar playing. Mastering this song offers significant benefits for guitarists, particularly in understanding groove, timing, and the art of crafting memorable riffs.

1.1. Understanding the Song’s History and Significance

“Knock on Wood” was originally performed by Eddie Floyd, released in 1966, and co-written by Eddie Floyd and Steve Cropper. It quickly became a hit, celebrated for its infectious rhythm and heartfelt delivery. Its success stems from a combination of factors:

Catchy Melody: The song features a memorable melody that sticks with listeners.
Strong Groove: The rhythm section lays down a groove that makes you want to move.
Emotional Delivery: Eddie Floyd’s passionate vocals convey a sense of urgency and soulfulness.

1.2. Why “Knock on Wood” Is Great for Guitarists

“Knock on Wood” is an excellent choice for guitarists for several reasons:

Develops Rhythm Guitar Skills: The song emphasizes clean, precise rhythm playing, which is crucial for any guitarist.
Introduces Blues Licks: The guitar parts incorporate classic blues licks and fills, providing a foundation for blues improvisation.
Enhances Timing and Groove: Playing along with the track will improve your timing and help you develop a strong sense of groove.
Accessible to Different Skill Levels: The basic chords and rhythms are relatively simple, making it suitable for beginners, while the nuances and embellishments offer challenges for more advanced players.
Teaches Song Structure: Learning “Knock on Wood” helps you understand how verses, choruses, and instrumental breaks fit together in a song.
Fun and Engaging: Ultimately, “Knock on Wood” is a blast to play. Its upbeat tempo and positive vibe make it a crowd-pleaser and a surefire way to get people dancing.

1.3. What Skills Can You Gain from Learning This Song?

Learning “Knock on Wood” on guitar will help you develop a range of essential skills:

Chord Changes: Smoothly transition between chords to maintain the song’s rhythm.
Strumming Patterns: Master different strumming patterns to add variety and dynamics to your playing.
Blues Licks: Incorporate blues licks and fills to add flavor and personality to your solos and rhythm parts.
Improvisation: Learn to improvise over the song’s chord changes, creating your own solos and fills.
Ear Training: Develop your ear by learning to recognize chord progressions and melodies.
Songwriting: Understand how a song is structured, from the intro to the outro.

2. What Chords and Progressions Are Used in “Knock on Wood?”

Understanding the chords and progressions is fundamental to playing “Knock on Wood” on guitar. This song is built around a simple yet effective chord progression that lends itself well to both rhythm and lead playing.

2.1. Identifying the Main Chords

The primary chords in “Knock on Wood” are:

E (E major): A bright and foundational chord.
A (A major): Provides a contrasting, yet complementary sound.
B7 (B dominant 7): Adds a bluesy, tension-filled element.

These chords form the backbone of the song and are used throughout the verses and choruses.

2.2. The Basic Chord Progression

The chord progression for the verse and chorus typically follows this sequence:

This progression repeats, creating a familiar and catchy harmonic structure.

2.3. Chord Variations and Embellishments

While the basic chords provide the foundation, there are variations and embellishments that can add flavor and complexity to your playing:

E7 (E dominant 7): Adds a bluesy touch to the E chord.
A7 (A dominant 7): Similar to E7, this adds a bluesy flavor to the A chord.
Passing Chords: Inserting quick passing chords between the main chords can create a smoother transition.

Experiment with these variations to find what sounds best to your ear and fits your playing style.

2.4. Using a Capo to Change Key

If you find the chords in “Knock on Wood” too challenging or if you want to play along with a singer in a different key, you can use a capo. A capo is a device that clamps down on the guitar strings at a particular fret, effectively shortening the length of the strings and raising the pitch of the guitar.

To use a capo, simply place it on the desired fret and tune your guitar as usual. You can then play the same chord shapes as before, but the capo will transpose them to a different key.

2.5. Reading Chord Diagrams

Chord diagrams are visual representations of guitar chords. They show you where to place your fingers on the fretboard to play a particular chord.

A typical chord diagram consists of a grid representing the fretboard, with horizontal lines representing the frets and vertical lines representing the strings. The dots on the grid indicate where to place your fingers, and the numbers next to the dots indicate which fingers to use (1 for index, 2 for middle, 3 for ring, and 4 for pinky).

3. What Are the Essential Guitar Riffs and Licks in “Knock on Wood?”

The guitar riffs and licks in “Knock on Wood” are what give the song its distinctive character. These riffs are not only fun to play but also provide a great way to improve your lead guitar skills.

3.1. Identifying Key Riffs

The song features several key riffs that are instantly recognizable:

Introductory Riff: This riff kicks off the song and establishes its catchy groove.
Verse Riff: Played during the verses, this riff supports the vocals and adds a rhythmic element.
Chorus Lick: This lick appears in the chorus and provides a memorable hook.

3.2. Breaking Down the Riffs

To learn these riffs, it’s helpful to break them down into smaller, more manageable parts:

Identify the Notes: Determine the specific notes that make up the riff.
Finger Placement: Find the most comfortable and efficient finger placement on the fretboard.
Timing: Practice the rhythm of the riff slowly, paying attention to the timing and syncopation.
Speed: Gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable with the riff.

3.3. Learning Common Licks

In addition to the main riffs, “Knock on Wood” also features several common blues licks that can be used in other songs:

Pentatonic Scale Licks: These licks are based on the pentatonic scale and are a staple of blues and rock guitar playing.
Blues Scale Licks: Similar to pentatonic licks, these incorporate the “blue note” for a more dissonant and expressive sound.
Double Stops: Playing two notes simultaneously to create a fuller, richer sound.

3.4. The Intro Riff

The intro riff is played in the key of E and is based around the E pentatonic minor scale. Here’s how to play it:

Start on the 12th fret of the low E string and play it twice.
Then, play the 14th fret of the low E string.
Next, move to the A string and play the 12th fret.
Finally, play the 14th fret of the A string.

3.5. The Verse Riff

The verse riff is more rhythm-based and focuses on chord tones. Here’s a simplified version:

Play the open E string.
Follow with the 2nd fret of the A string (B note).
Then, play the open A string.
End with the 1st fret of the E string (F note).

3.6. The Chorus Lick

The chorus lick is a short, catchy phrase that’s easy to remember. It mainly uses notes from the E major pentatonic scale:

Start on the 12th fret of the D string.
Bend the string slightly.
Move to the 14th fret of the D string.
Finish on the 12th fret of the G string.

3.7. Practicing Techniques for Clean Play

To play these riffs and licks cleanly, focus on these techniques:

Alternate Picking: Use alternate picking (down-up-down-up) to maintain a consistent rhythm and avoid string noise.
String Muting: Mute the strings you’re not playing to prevent unwanted sounds.
Finger Independence: Develop finger independence to play notes accurately and smoothly.
Use of Vibrato: Vibrato is a slight wavering of the pitch of a note, and it can add a lot of expression to your playing.
Bending Techniques: Bending notes is another way to add expression to your playing.

4. How to Play the Rhythm Guitar Part in “Knock on Wood?”

The rhythm guitar part in “Knock on Wood” is just as important as the lead guitar riffs, providing the foundation for the song’s groove. This section covers the essential techniques and approaches to master the rhythm guitar part.

4.1. Understanding the Strumming Pattern

The strumming pattern in “Knock on Wood” is typically a steady, driving rhythm that emphasizes the downbeats.

A common pattern is: Down, Down, Up, Down, Up.

However, feel free to experiment with variations to add your own touch.

4.2. Keeping Time and Maintaining the Groove

To keep time and maintain the groove, focus on:

Using a Metronome: Practice with a metronome to develop a consistent sense of timing.
Listening to the Drums: Pay attention to the kick drum and snare drum to lock in with the rhythm section.
Staying Relaxed: Avoid tensing up, as this can negatively impact your timing and groove.

4.3. Chord Voicings for Rhythm Guitar

When playing rhythm guitar, the chord voicings you choose can have a big impact on the overall sound. Here are some common chord voicings for “Knock on Wood”:

Open Chords: These are the basic chord shapes that most beginners learn.
Barre Chords: These are more advanced chord shapes that allow you to play any chord on the fretboard.
Inversions: These are different ways of playing the same chord, with different notes in the bass.

4.4. Accenting Specific Beats for Emphasis

Accenting specific beats can add emphasis and excitement to the rhythm guitar part. Try accenting the downbeats (beats 1 and 3) or the upbeats (beats 2 and 4) to create different rhythmic effects.

4.5. Practicing Tips

Here are some tips for practicing the rhythm guitar part in “Knock on Wood”:

Start Slow: Begin by practicing the chords and strumming pattern slowly and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable.
Break It Down: If you’re having trouble with a particular section, break it down into smaller parts and practice each part separately.
Play Along with the Song: Once you’re comfortable with the chords and strumming pattern, try playing along with the original recording of “Knock on Wood.”
Record Yourself: Record yourself playing and listen back to identify areas for improvement.
Practice Regularly: The key to mastering the rhythm guitar part in “Knock on Wood” is to practice regularly. Even just a few minutes of practice each day will make a big difference.

5. How to Improvise a Guitar Solo Over “Knock on Wood?”

Improvising a guitar solo over “Knock on Wood” is a fantastic way to express your creativity and add your own personal touch to the song. This section covers the scales, techniques, and approaches you can use to create a memorable solo.

5.1. Choosing the Right Scale

The most common scales to use when improvising over “Knock on Wood” are:

E Minor Pentatonic: This scale is a great starting point for beginners.
E Major Pentatonic: Adds a brighter, more melodic sound.
E Blues Scale: Incorporates the “blue note” for a more soulful sound.

5.2. Targeting Chord Tones

A great way to make your solos sound more connected to the song is to target chord tones. Chord tones are the notes that make up the chords in the song.

For example, when the chord is E, you can target the notes E, G#, and B. When the chord is A, you can target the notes A, C#, and E. And when the chord is B7, you can target the notes B, D#, F#, and A.

5.3. Using Bluesy Bends and Slides

Bluesy bends and slides are essential techniques for adding emotion and expression to your solos. Bending involves pushing or pulling a string to raise its pitch, while sliding involves moving your finger along a string to change its pitch.

5.4. Varying Your Dynamics and Phrasing

Varying your dynamics and phrasing can add a lot of interest to your solos. Dynamics refers to the loudness or softness of your playing, while phrasing refers to the way you group notes together.

Experiment with playing some phrases louder and some softer, and try grouping notes in different ways to create different rhythmic effects.

5.5. Listening and Learning from Other Guitarists

One of the best ways to improve your improvisation skills is to listen and learn from other guitarists. Pay attention to the solos in “Knock on Wood” and other similar songs, and try to identify the techniques and approaches that the guitarists are using.

5.6. Soloing Tips

Here are some additional tips for improvising a guitar solo over “Knock on Wood”:

Start Simple: Don’t try to play too much too soon. Start with simple phrases and gradually add more complexity as you become more comfortable.
Leave Space: Don’t feel like you have to fill every beat with notes. Leaving space in your solos can create a more dramatic effect.
Tell a Story: Think of your solos as a way to tell a story. Try to build tension and release it, and use your playing to convey emotion.
Have Fun: Most importantly, have fun. Improvising should be a creative and enjoyable experience.

6. What Gear Do You Need to Play “Knock on Wood?”

Having the right gear can make a big difference in your ability to play “Knock on Wood” and achieve the desired sound. This section covers the essential gear you’ll need, including guitars, amplifiers, and effects pedals.

6.1. Choosing the Right Guitar

For “Knock on Wood,” a guitar with a clear, articulate tone is ideal.

Solid-body Electric Guitar: A Stratocaster or Telecaster-style guitar is a great choice, as they offer a versatile sound that works well for rhythm and lead playing.
Hollow-body or Semi-hollow Body: Guitars can provide a warmer, more resonant tone.

6.2. Amplifier Settings for “Knock on Wood”

The amplifier settings you use will depend on the type of amplifier you have, but here are some general guidelines:

Clean Tone: “Knock on Wood” is best played with a clean tone, so avoid using too much distortion or overdrive.
Slight Reverb: A touch of reverb can add some depth and dimension to your sound.
EQ: Adjust the EQ settings to achieve a balanced tone, with enough treble to cut through the mix but not so much that it sounds harsh.

6.3. Essential Effects Pedals

While “Knock on Wood” doesn’t require a lot of effects pedals, there are a few that can enhance your sound:

Overdrive: A light overdrive pedal can add a touch of warmth and sustain to your tone.
Chorus: A chorus pedal can add a subtle shimmer to your sound, making it sound wider and more spacious.
Delay: A delay pedal can add a sense of depth and atmosphere to your playing.

6.4. Cables, Picks, and Other Accessories

In addition to the essential gear, you’ll also need some basic accessories:

Guitar Cables: High-quality guitar cables are essential for transmitting your guitar’s signal to your amplifier without any loss of tone.
Picks: The type of pick you use will affect your tone and playing style. Experiment with different types of picks to find what works best for you.
Guitar Tuner: A guitar tuner is essential for keeping your guitar in tune.
Guitar Strap: A guitar strap is essential for playing your guitar while standing up.

6.5. The Steve Cropper Setup

Steve Cropper, the co-writer, and guitarist on the original recording of “Knock on Wood,” is known for his clean, precise tone. He typically plays a Fender Telecaster through a Fender amplifier.

To get a similar sound, try using a Telecaster-style guitar with a clean amp setting. You can also add a touch of reverb and a light overdrive pedal.

7. What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Playing “Knock on Wood” on Guitar?

Even with practice, it’s easy to fall into common pitfalls when learning a song. This section highlights common mistakes to avoid when playing “Knock on Wood” on guitar.

7.1. Rushing or Dragging the Tempo

One of the most common mistakes is rushing or dragging the tempo. This can throw off the groove of the song and make it sound disjointed.

To avoid this, practice with a metronome and pay close attention to the timing.

7.2. Incorrect Finger Placement

Incorrect finger placement can lead to buzzing, muted notes, and difficulty changing chords smoothly.

To avoid this, double-check your finger placement and make sure you’re pressing down firmly behind the frets.

7.3. Strumming Too Hard or Too Soft

Strumming too hard can make the guitar sound harsh and aggressive, while strumming too soft can make it sound weak and lifeless.

To avoid this, experiment with different strumming techniques and find a balance that works for you.

7.4. Neglecting Muting Unwanted Strings

Neglecting to mute unwanted strings can lead to a messy, cluttered sound.

To avoid this, use your fretting hand and picking hand to mute any strings that you’re not playing.

7.5. Not Listening to the Original Recording

Not listening to the original recording can lead to misinterpretations of the song’s rhythm, phrasing, and dynamics.

To avoid this, listen to the original recording frequently and pay attention to the nuances of the guitar parts.

7.6. Other Mistakes

Here are some other common mistakes to avoid:

Using the Wrong Chords: Make sure you’re using the correct chords and chord voicings.
Playing the Riffs Incorrectly: Practice the riffs slowly and carefully to make sure you’re playing them correctly.
Not Practicing Regularly: The key to mastering “Knock on Wood” is to practice regularly.

8. How Can You Practice Effectively and Efficiently?

Effective practice is key to mastering “Knock on Wood” on guitar. This section provides tips on how to structure your practice sessions for optimal results.

8.1. Setting Realistic Goals

Start by setting realistic goals for your practice sessions. Don’t try to learn the entire song in one day. Instead, focus on mastering one or two sections at a time.

8.2. Breaking Down the Song into Sections

Breaking down the song into sections can make it more manageable and less overwhelming. Focus on mastering each section individually before putting them all together.

8.3. Using a Metronome

A metronome is an essential tool for developing your timing and rhythm. Practice with a metronome regularly to improve your accuracy and consistency.

8.4. Recording Yourself

Recording yourself playing can be a valuable way to identify areas for improvement. Listen back to your recordings and pay attention to your timing, finger placement, and overall sound.

8.5. Practicing Slowly and Gradually Increasing Speed

Start by practicing slowly and gradually increasing the speed as you become more comfortable. This will help you avoid mistakes and develop good habits.

8.6. Taking Breaks

Taking breaks is important for avoiding fatigue and maintaining focus. Take a break every 30 minutes or so to stretch your muscles, relax your mind, and come back to your practice session refreshed.

8.7. Structuring Practice Sessions

Here’s a sample structure for a practice session:

Warm-up (5 minutes)
Chord Practice (10 minutes)
Riff Practice (10 minutes)
Soloing Practice (10 minutes)
Play Along with the Song (15 minutes)

9. What Are Some Tips for Playing “Knock on Wood” in a Band Setting?

Playing “Knock on Wood” in a band setting can be a rewarding experience. This section offers tips for playing the song effectively as part of a group.

9.1. Listening to Other Instruments

When playing in a band, it’s essential to listen to the other instruments. Pay attention to the drums, bass, and vocals, and try to lock in with their rhythms and phrasing.

9.2. Locking in with the Rhythm Section

The rhythm section is the backbone of the band, so it’s important to lock in with them. Pay attention to the kick drum and snare drum, and try to play your guitar parts in sync with their rhythms.

9.3. Communicating with Bandmates

Communication is key to a successful band performance. Talk to your bandmates about the song’s arrangement, dynamics, and overall feel. Be open to their ideas and suggestions, and work together to create a cohesive and exciting performance.

9.4. Adjusting Your Volume

Adjust your volume to fit the overall sound of the band. Avoid playing too loudly, as this can drown out the other instruments. Instead, try to find a balance that allows your guitar to be heard without overpowering the other musicians.

9.5. Being Mindful of Stage Presence

Your stage presence is just as important as your playing. Be confident, energetic, and engaging, and try to connect with the audience.

9.6. Final Tips

Here are some additional tips for playing “Knock on Wood” in a band setting:

Practice with the Band: Practice with the band as much as possible to develop your chemistry and timing.
Be Prepared: Make sure you know the song inside and out before you play it with the band.
Have Fun: Most importantly, have fun. Playing in a band should be an enjoyable experience.

10. Where Can You Find More Resources and Lessons?

To further your guitar journey, access to quality resources is essential. guitarplayers.net is your go-to source for everything guitar-related.

10.1. GuitarPlayers.Net Resources

On guitarplayers.net, you can find a variety of resources to help you learn and improve your guitar playing:

Lessons: Access a library of lessons covering various topics, from basic chords to advanced techniques.
Reviews: Read in-depth reviews of guitars, amplifiers, and effects pedals to help you make informed purchasing decisions.
Tabs: Find accurate guitar tabs for a wide range of songs, including “Knock on Wood.”
Community: Connect with other guitar players in our online forum, share your experiences, and ask questions.

10.2. Connecting with Other Guitar Players

Connecting with other guitar players can be a great way to learn and improve your skills. Join our online forum, attend local jam sessions, or take guitar lessons to meet other musicians.

10.3. Learn More with GuitarPlayers.Net

Ready to take your guitar playing to the next level? At guitarplayers.net, we provide the tools and community to help you succeed. Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your skills, our platform offers something for every guitarist.

Ready to dive deeper into “Knock on Wood” and explore more soul classics? Visit guitarplayers.net for comprehensive lessons, chord charts, and backing tracks.

Want to connect with other guitarists and share your progress? Join our active community forum and get inspired by players of all levels.

Looking for the perfect gear to capture that classic soul sound? Check out our expert reviews of guitars, amps, and effects.

FAQ Section

1. What makes “Knock on Wood” a good song for beginner guitarists?

“Knock on Wood” is excellent for beginners because it primarily uses simple, common chords like E, A, and B7, making it easy to learn and play the basic structure. The song also features a straightforward rhythm that helps beginners develop their strumming skills.

2. Can I use a capo to make “Knock on Wood” easier to play?

Yes, you can use a capo to change the key of the song and potentially use easier chord shapes. Experiment with different fret positions to find a key that suits your vocal range and comfort level.

3. What scales should I use to improvise a solo over “Knock on Wood”?

The E minor pentatonic and E blues scales are excellent choices for improvising over “Knock on Wood.” These scales fit well with the song’s key and provide plenty of opportunities for bluesy licks and phrases.

4. What kind of guitar is best for playing “Knock on Wood”?

A solid-body electric guitar, such as a Fender Telecaster or Stratocaster, is ideal for playing “Knock on Wood.” These guitars offer a clear, articulate tone that works well for both rhythm and lead playing in the song.

5. What amplifier settings are recommended for playing “Knock on Wood”?

A clean tone with a touch of reverb is recommended for playing “Knock on Wood.” Avoid using too much distortion or overdrive, as the song’s guitar parts are best played with a clean, clear sound.

6. Are there any essential effects pedals for playing “Knock on Wood”?

While not essential, a light overdrive pedal can add warmth and sustain, and a chorus pedal can add a subtle shimmer. These effects can enhance the song’s sound without overpowering it.

7. What are some common mistakes to avoid when playing “Knock on Wood”?

Common mistakes include rushing or dragging the tempo, incorrect finger placement, strumming too hard or too soft, and neglecting to mute unwanted strings. Practicing with a metronome and paying attention to your technique can help you avoid these mistakes.

8. How can I make my rhythm guitar part in “Knock on Wood” more interesting?

You can make your rhythm guitar part more interesting by varying your strumming patterns, using different chord voicings, and accenting specific beats. Experiment with different techniques to find what sounds best to your ear.

9. How important is it to listen to the original recording of “Knock on Wood”?

Listening to the original recording is crucial for understanding the song’s rhythm, phrasing, and dynamics. Pay attention to the nuances of the guitar parts and try to emulate them in your own playing.

10. Where can I find guitar tabs for “Knock on Wood”?

You can find guitar tabs for “Knock on Wood” on various websites, including guitarplayers.net. Make sure to choose tabs that are accurate and easy to read.

With dedication and the right resources, mastering “Knock on Wood” on guitar is within your reach. Let guitarplayers.net be your guide, and start your musical journey today.

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