What should I learn to get good at guitar when I still have basic background.?

Question

Ok so here's the deal I've been playing for like a year a half and I can play lots of songs and some chords and scales but I still feel as if I can't really make up my own stuff or know enough theory to play something other than pre made music. What should I learn now to be able to make and play my own ROCK or METAL songs.

Answer 1

You answered your own question, Learn more theory:

Learn All the Modes and learn all the chords and learn how they work and why they work.

The 7 modes are Ionian, Dorian, Phyrgian, Lydian, Mixolydian, Aeolian and Locrian. Modes are variations of the Basic Major and Minor Scales. Learn these 7 in all the positions across the fretboard in all keys.

Then learn all the Chords in every position and key:

Major, Minor, Diminished, Augumented, Major 7, Minor 7, Dominant 7, 7 b5, 9ths, sus, 11ths, 13ths, etc..

then learn about how these chords work within certain modes to create certain chord porgressions. Then learn how to improvise with all the modes.

The first person who answered this question gave you " the tools to play guitar" but you need to use these tools in certain ways and what I have just told you is the theory behind how to use these tools. Then you have to do what the thirds answerer said: Practice, practice, practice.

Answer 2

Develop your ear (make melodies with scales; figure out songs without looking at the tab). Note that this takes A LOT of time to perfect. Learn power chords, that's a big one since-of course-rock and metal use these types of chords. Work on palm muting, rest picking, alternative picking, pull-offs, hammer-ons, develop your pinky since it's the weakest of the four fingers, etc.

All of the techniques I have listed are what's in metal and rock music (a good ear is essential to making your own music). Perfect all of them and then you'll have the tools to start writing your own music.

Answer 3

practice practice practice till your sick of it  and in time you'll amaze  yourself and everyone else

Answer 4

Check out a book called "Fretboard Mastery"

Seek and ye shall find