Caleb Foster
Zakk Wylde is a guitarist and the leader of the Black Label Society. He is also known for his work with Ozzy Osbourne and his appearance on Guns N' Roses' reunion tour. Wylde's fingernails have been described as nasty talons and he has been included in a discussion about guitarists who use their fingernails instead of a pick. While some guitarists use their fingernails to play, it is a matter of personal preference and technique.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Guitarists using their fingernails | Lindsey Buckingham, Jeff Beck, Mark Knopfler, Johnny Winter, Freddie King, Brad Paisley, John Butler, Zakk Wylde |
| Type of fingernails used | Natural, fake/plastic/acrylic, or with nail-repair silk wrap |
| Challenges | Keeping nails long enough, maintaining nail quality, avoiding chipping/tearing |
| Benefits | Achieving "that tone", getting a click-y attack of pickstyle, having more control over the guitar |
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What You'll Learn
Zakk Wylde's preference for using finger picks
Zakk Wylde is known for his distinctive long fingernails, which he has spoken about in interviews. While some guitarists play with their fingers or thumb, Wylde is part of a tradition of guitarists who use their fingernails as a substitute for a pick. This technique is particularly associated with classical, flamenco, and delta blues guitarists, as well as bassists.
Some guitarists who use this technique opt for fake, plastic, or acrylic nails, which can be hardened with nail polish or nail-repair silk wrap. These are often chosen for their durability and the fact that they don't affect the tone of the guitar. However, Wylde appears to prefer growing his natural nails, which he has described as "nasty talons".
The use of fingernails as a picking technique allows for a unique sound, described by one forum user as a "click-y attack". This technique also provides the guitarist with a certain level of control over the instrument. However, it is not without its challenges, as some have described the process of growing out and maintaining long nails as "gross".
Ultimately, Wylde's preference for using his fingernails as picks is a testament to his unique playing style and commitment to achieving a specific tone. While it may not be for everyone, it is a legitimate technique that has been employed by many notable guitarists throughout history.
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The sound produced by finger picks
While there is no direct information on whether Zakk Wylde plays with his fingernails, it is known that guitarists often grow out their natural nails to achieve power and clarity in their fingerstrokes. Some guitarists also use acrylic nails to extend and strengthen their nails. However, long fingernails and acrylics are not a practical option for many players.
Finger picks are used to brighten and clarify fingerpicking. Using the flesh of the fingers to pick the strings usually creates a dull and muted sound. By attaching a plectrum to the end of each finger, each note is picked with added power and brightness.
The choice between plastic and metal fingerpicks depends on the sound you want to produce and your personal preference. Plastic fingerpicks produce a warmer and softer tone, while metal fingerpicks produce a brighter and crisper tone. Metal fingerpicks are also more durable and long-lasting than plastic ones.
The Dunlop Nickel and National finger picks are made of stainless steel and are known for producing a bright, crisp tone. The National finger picks are packaged with thumb picks made from ABS thermoplastic, which provides a warmer feel and sound.
The Fred Kelly pick is made from Delrin, a strong material with a softer tone. These picks are designed to go over the fingernail, allowing for a more natural picking attack.
Some other popular plastic fingerpicks are made by Jim Dunlop, Fender, and D'Addario. These picks usually cost around $5-7 per set and produce a middle-ground sound that is not too bright and not too warm.
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Guitarists who use their fingernails
While it is not known whether Zakk Wylde uses his fingernails to play the guitar, many guitarists do use their fingernails when playing. In fact, using your fingernails can help create a wider range of tone colours and allow for a variety of sounds and volumes. For example, smooth nails can help create very lush, warm sounds as well as bright, metallic sounds.
Many guitarists opt to keep their nails short, as long fingernails are not always practical or culturally acceptable in certain professions. However, for those who play classical guitar, nail shape and length can be important. The ideal nail shape and length will depend on the individual guitarist and how they play. Some guitarists choose to shape their nails with a nail file, using a variety of different types of files such as metal or glass. Others may cut their nails with scissors or nail clippers, although this can be tricky and is not recommended for beginners.
There are also products available specifically for guitarists who want to improve their sound with the help of their fingernails. These include false nails that are durable enough for steel string and flamenco guitar players and can be applied quickly. Guitarists can also use a ping pong ball to help improve their sound.
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The challenges of maintaining long fingernails
Maintaining long fingernails can be challenging and usually means more effort in upkeep. It requires setting aside time for proper care and maintenance to achieve the desired look. Here are some of the challenges and considerations when maintaining long fingernails:
Nail Cleaning and Hygiene: Long fingernails can accumulate dirt, oil, and lotion more easily, requiring regular and thorough cleaning. It is important to use a nail file to clean underneath the nails and remove any remaining dirt. Additionally, filling your sink with hot water and antibacterial soap can help scrub and sanitise the nail file itself.
Nail Strength and Health: Long nails can become brittle, chip, or break more easily. To mitigate this, it is recommended to use products that encourage nail growth and protection. Cuticle cream or oil can help minimise hangnails and promote nail health. It is also important to gently push back and trim the cuticles. Buffing the nails can smooth out their appearance, but over-buffing can weaken the nail structure.
Nail Shaping and Consistency: Maintaining a uniform shape and length is important for long nails. Filing the nails to the desired shape (round or square) helps achieve a consistent look. Clipping the nails to one length can also be done, but only a tiny bit to avoid over-shortening.
Nail Polish Application and Removal: Applying nail polish can enhance the appearance of long nails, but it also requires careful removal to avoid staining. A base coat is recommended to prevent discolouration, followed by the desired colour, and finished with a top coat. Regular touch-ups are necessary, with daily applications for the first four days, then every other day for the last three days.
Time and Effort: Maintaining long fingernails demands a significant time investment. The various steps involved in cleaning, shaping, moisturising, and polishing the nails can be time-consuming. Additionally, allowing nails to dry and setting aside time for proper maintenance routines are crucial aspects of the process.
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The perception of long fingernails in the guitar world
On the other hand, some guitarists find long fingernails inconvenient and opt for short or no nails. Long nails can be challenging to maintain and may snag on the strings, producing a bad tone. Additionally, many guitarists work in professions that do not allow long fingernails, either culturally or practically.
One notable example of a guitarist with long fingernails is Dolly Parton, who sports long, delicately preened hand talons while playing. She achieves this by always playing in open tunings and barres every chord or frets exclusively low-string notes with the open strings. However, this method limits advanced chordal colouring.
Ultimately, the question of nails is a personal preference for guitarists. While some may prefer the sound and look of long fingernails, others may find them impractical and prefer to keep them short or maintain a traditional lute technique of playing without nails.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Zakk Wylde is known to play with his fingernails, which he grows out long.
Yes, some guitarists who play with their fingernails include Jeff Beck, Mark Knopfler, Derek Trucks, and Kevin Eubanks.
Playing with a combination of fingers and nails can help achieve "that tone", especially for classical guitar and bass.
