Ava Monroe
Zakk Wylde is a guitarist who is known for his long fingernails, which he uses as a pick when playing the guitar. This technique is used by some other guitarists, including Lindsey Buckingham. Wylde's long nails are considered gross by some people, and he has been described as having nasty talons. Growing long fingernails for playing guitar is considered a legitimate technique that can help achieve a certain tone, but it is also seen as a gross tradition. Some guitarists who use this technique recommend taking care of the nails by filing them in one direction, soaking them in oil, and ensuring adequate protein and water intake.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reason for long nails | Used as a pick for guitar playing |
| Tone | Achieves "that tone" |
| Technique | Classical fingernails |
| Nail Care | Requires regular nail care and filing |
| Vitamins | No evidence that vitamins help nail growth |
| Protein and Water | Sufficient intake of protein and water is important |
| Soaks | Nail/cuticle soaks in oil can help strengthen nails |
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What You'll Learn
Guitarists use long fingernails as a pick
Fingerpicking refers to the act of plucking strings using the fingers, either with or without nails. When using nails for fingerpicking, the ideal length is typically considered to be 2-3 mm beyond the fingertip. This length allows for both the flesh and the nail to touch a flat surface when the finger is placed upon it. Having nails that are longer than this can diminish playing speed and intonation, while very short nails can affect the tone.
Some guitarists prefer to use a combination of their fingertip and nail to achieve their desired sound. This technique can be used on both acoustic and electric guitars. Guitarists who use their nails for fingerpicking may shape or file their nails to achieve a smooth, angled edge. This helps the fingers to glide across the strings without getting caught.
To maintain long fingernails for guitar playing, it is important to ensure adequate protein and water intake. Additionally, nail and cuticle soaks can be done using natural oils such as coconut, almond, jojoba, or olive oil. It is recommended to file nails in one direction only and to avoid saw filing.
While some guitarists prefer long fingernails for fingerpicking, others may find it uncomfortable or gross. It is a matter of personal preference and playing style. Some guitarists may choose to use artificial nails or finger picks as an alternative to growing their natural nails. Ultimately, the decision to use long fingernails as a pick comes down to the individual guitarist's comfort, preferences, and desired sound.
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Long fingernails are a gross tradition
Some guitarists, such as Zakk Wylde, have long fingernails that resemble nasty talons. Wylde's thumbnail, in particular, has been described as looking dangerous. Other guitarists who use their fingernails as a pick include Lindsey Buckingham and Nick Comier (aka SnowFall).
Growing out fingernails is a challenging commitment to tone. It is an unnatural way of playing that can be challenging to maintain due to the nails getting ragged and tearing. Some guitarists recommend using products like Hard as Hoof to strengthen nails and prevent breakage.
To grow long, strong nails, it is essential to ensure adequate protein and water intake and take care of them. Filing nails in one direction and regularly soaking them in oil can help keep them healthy. However, despite the potential benefits, many guitarists find the idea of long nails repulsive and prefer to use a pick or keep their nails trimmed.
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Zakk Wylde's thumbnail looks dangerous
Growing and maintaining long thumbnails can be challenging and require a strong commitment to tone. It can be considered "gross," and some people may find it challenging to adapt to playing without a pick. Additionally, it is important to ensure proper nail care to avoid breakage and maintain the desired shape. This includes filing nails in one direction, soaking them in oils, and ensuring adequate protein and water intake.
Some guitarists opt for fake nails or nail-strengthening products like superglue to achieve the desired sound without committing to long thumbnails. However, natural nails are preferred by some guitarists, who believe they produce a better sound.
While Wylde's long thumbnail may stand out as unusual or even dangerous-looking, it is a deliberate choice that contributes to his unique guitar playing style and sound. It showcases his dedication to his craft and his willingness to embrace traditional techniques to enhance his performance.
Overall, Zakk Wylde's thumbnail may look dangerous, but it is a testament to his passion for music and his commitment to achieving the perfect tone.
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Vitamins don't help nail growth
Metal guitarists like Zakk Wylde are known for growing out their fingernails, which is considered a gross but legitimate technique to achieve "that tone". However, there is no evidence that taking specific vitamins will help nail growth and strength. Instead, the key is to ensure adequate protein and water intake and practice proper nail care. Filing nails in one direction and doing nail/cuticle soaks with oils such as coconut, almond, jojoba, or olive oil can help.
While vitamins may not directly contribute to nail growth, certain nutrients are important for nail health and strength. Biotin, also known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H, is a B-complex vitamin that promotes healthy cell growth and aids in the metabolism of protein-building amino acids essential for nail growth. Although biotin deficiency is rare, consuming biotin-rich foods or supplements may help strengthen brittle nails and improve their growth. Other B vitamins, such as folate found in citrus fruits and berries, are also important for nail health.
Vitamin C is another crucial nutrient for nail health. It is essential for collagen production, which provides strength and integrity to nails. A deficiency in vitamin C can lead to small linear blood spots on the nails, known as splinter hemorrhages. To prevent this, it is recommended that women consume 75 mg and men 90 mg of vitamin C, which can be obtained from eating citrus fruits such as oranges or strawberries.
In addition to vitamins, minerals like zinc are necessary for nail growth and health. A zinc deficiency can cause issues such as white spots, slowed growth, and nail thinning. Sufficient zinc intake helps support strong and healthy nails.
While vitamins and minerals play a role in nail health, it is important to note that overall nail growth and strength depend on various factors, including protein intake, hydration, and proper nail care practices.
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Natural nails are worth the sacrifice
Growing out nails can be a challenging and often gross commitment, but it is a legitimate technique that has been used by guitarists such as Zakk Wylde. While some may find the idea of long nails uncomfortable or unhygienic, those who have made the sacrifice attest to the unique tone and sound that can be achieved.
The key to maintaining long nails is ensuring a good protein and water intake and caring for them properly. This includes regular filing in one direction, nail and cuticle soaks, and strengthening them with natural oils or even superglue. It can be a difficult adjustment, especially when it comes to everyday tasks, but the payoff can be worth it for guitarists seeking a specific sound.
While it may not be for everyone, those who have embraced their natural nails describe a click-y attack similar to pickstyle, without the unnatural feeling. It is a traditional technique that is still valued in the classical guitar world, particularly by older players. For those seeking a specific tone, the sacrifice of growing out their natural nails can be a worthwhile endeavour.
Additionally, using natural nails can provide a more natural and comfortable playing experience for some guitarists. While alternatives like fake nails or thumb picks exist, they may not produce the same sound or feel as natural nails. Ultimately, the decision to grow out one's nails is a personal choice, but for those seeking a specific tone and playing experience, it can be a rewarding sacrifice.
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Frequently asked questions
Zakk Wylde has long nails because he uses them to fingerpick while playing the guitar.
It is common for classical guitarists to use their fingernails as a pick.
To grow long nails, it is important to ensure adequate protein and water intake. You can also soak your nails in oil, such as coconut, almond, jojoba, or olive oil, to strengthen them.
Some guitarists use fake nails or glue to strengthen their nails. Others use picks made from materials such as metal wire or butterfly picks.
Yes, Lindsey Buckingham and Randy Rhoads are two examples of guitarists known for having long nails.
