15 Iconic Country Guitar Licks (With Tabs + Videos)

Country music and the guitar share a bond as deep as the genre’s roots in American soil. Over the years, guitar licks—those catchy, memorable guitar phrases—have defined countless classic tracks and set toes tapping in honky-tonks nationwide. 

Whether it’s the twangy pull-off that captures the heart of the South or a bluesy bend that melds two musical worlds, these licks tell stories, evoke emotions, and become the signatures of songs.

In this post, we’ll dive into 15 of the most iconic country guitar licks. From those that have been the backbone of chart-topping hits to the subtle fills that elevate a song’s narrative, this list is a journey through the essence of country guitar. 

Whether you’re a budding guitarist, a seasoned player, or simply a country music enthusiast, there’s a wealth of history and technique here to explore. Let’s strum our way through!

Read Also: 25 Easy Guitar Licks and Riffs for Beginners (With Tabs + Videos)

Intro Slide

The “Intro Slide” lick offers a gentle entry into a song with its slick upward movement on the guitar. It begins with a clean slide upwards on the G string, seamlessly transitioning from the 7th to the 9th fret. This gives a sense of forward motion and anticipation, ideal for setting the stage for the rest of the piece.

The slide evokes an inviting and smooth introduction, hinting at the melodic journey the listener is about to embark on. This particular technique is reminiscent of the sliding motions prevalent in country classics, such as “On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson.

Employing this lick at the beginning of a track or after a musical pause can effectively recapture the listener’s attention and signal the return or introduction of the main melody.

Read Also: 25 Best Slide Guitar Songs (With Tabs + Videos)

Verse Fill

The “Verse Fill” is characterized by its expressive bending action, primarily rooted in the G string. By initiating a bend and then resolving it with a subsequent note, this lick creates a call-and-response dynamic, making it an ideal choice to weave in between vocal lines during a verse.

This subtle, yet impactful technique can accentuate the emotion of lyrics and provides a melodic counterpoint.

Fans of Vince Gill will recognize the familiarity of these bending techniques, especially in tracks like “Look at Us,” where the guitar effortlessly converses with the lyrics.

Read Also: 10 Best Electric Guitars for Country Music

Chorus Lick

Uplifting and soaring, the “Chorus Lick” hinges on a high bend of the B string. This lick exudes a sense of freedom and elevation, making it perfect for the climactic moments of a chorus. It can bring a buoyant energy that enhances the singalong quality of a chorus.

For a touchstone, one can think of Brad Paisley’s tracks, where such bends often magnify the anthemic feel of the choruses.

Ending Run

Marking a descent back to the grounding note, the “Ending Run” offers a sense of closure and completion. It’s a lick that wraps things up, whether rounding off a verse, an instrumental bridge, or even the conclusion of the entire song.

Its structured and neat progression mirrors the satisfaction of ending a musical journey, much like the conclusive guitar moments in “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” by Brooks & Dunn.

Turnaround Lick

A nimble transition tool, the “Turnaround Lick” acts as a musical comma, signaling a shift from one section to the next. Its brisk notes provide a pause without halting the momentum, making it the perfect bridge between verses and choruses.

Turnarounds of this nature remind us of the transitional moments in Merle Haggard’s “Mama Tried,” where the music takes a brief breath before plunging into the next narrative chapter.

Rolling Riff (Intro)

Fluid and cascading, the “Rolling Riff” paints an image of a wave, steadily building and then gracefully settling. Ideal for introductions or outros, this lick sets the stage with a graceful momentum.

“Tulsa Time” by Don Williams employs a similar rolling guitar introduction, welcoming listeners into the song’s rhythm and mood.

Double-stop (Verse)

With the “Double-stop” lick, two strings play in harmony, offering a rich and layered sound. This harmony creates a fuller texture, infusing a verse with depth and dimension. The combined melodies provide a dual sensation, akin to the harmonized moments that Dwight Yoakam masterfully delivers in “Guitars, Cadillacs.”

High Slide (Bridge)

The “High Slide” offers a brief yet poignant ascent up the guitar’s neck. This lick, while short, injects a dose of excitement and serves as an attention-grabber, making it an effective element within a song’s bridge.

This is a technique that evokes memories of the guitar work in “Amarillo By Morning” by George Strait, where high notes punctuate the song’s emotional core.

Honky-Tonk Jump (Chorus)

Embodying the playful spirit of a honky-tonk bar, the “Honky-Tonk Jump” brings a lively, foot-tapping energy. It’s a bouncy lick that infuses joy into an upbeat chorus or as a prelude to a guitar solo.

For those acquainted with Alan Jackson’s “Chattahoochee,” this style of bounce is unmistakably present, injecting the track with fun and vigor.

Classic Walk-up (Verse)

With a steady and methodical climb, the “Classic Walk-up” lick builds anticipation, acting as a musical ramp. Whether leading into a new verse or setting the stage for a chorus, its progression hints at something big on the horizon.

This approach of creating suspense is often used in Johnny Cash’s tracks, like in “Folsom Prison Blues,” where each ascent promises a compelling narrative twist.

Chicken Pickin’ (Chorus)

Quick, playful, and undeniably country, the “Chicken Pickin'” technique offers a unique “clucking” sound. This quirky style is perfect for adding a dash of humor and lightness to a chorus or a solo.

Brad Paisley’s “Ticks” is a testament to the fun that chicken pickin’ can bring to a track, making listeners smile with every pluck.

Bridge Bounce

Breezy and carefree, the “Bridge Bounce” dances between notes, exuding joy and celebration. Used primarily in bridges, this lick injects a sprightly mood, uplifting the song’s middle section.

Dolly Parton’s iconic “9 to 5” is a great example, where the guitar licks bounce along, mirroring the song’s triumphant essence.

Quick Hammer (Verse)

The “Quick Hammer” is all about adding flair without overwhelming the primary melody. This lick, with its swift hammer-on technique, can be seamlessly woven between vocal lines, adding a touch of finesse.

Keith Urban, known for his intricate guitar work, often incorporates such techniques to embellish his verses.

Twangy Pull-off (Chorus)

Offering a release with a distinct “twang,” the “Twangy Pull-off” captures the heart of country music in a single gesture. This pull-off technique, especially when used in choruses, reinforces the genre’s unique sound.

“Real Good Man” by Tim McGraw showcases this twang, reminding listeners of the genre’s roots.

Bluesy Bend (Solo)

Infusing a bit of blues into country, the “Bluesy Bend” brings depth and soulfulness to a solo. By bending the string with a controlled passion, this lick speaks to the country and blues shared history.

Keith Urban’s “Blue Ain’t Your Color” exemplifies this blend, where the solos resonate with country charm and bluesy soul.