Death Grip

[Park Ranger]

I am so glad I came across this site.  I use to spend some time on the L&M forum.

Looking for any suggestions, tips or drills to get rid of my death grip.  I know I play better when I have a lighter touch, but I tend to always go back to a death grip, especially if working on something new or barre chords.

 

[John Wells]

Your so-called "Death grip" seems a habit formed while learning barre chords and has to be broken as one of the final things we have to learn in order to play with them. Breaking a habit is difficult, but the rewards are stupendous (Allus like to use dat word). Keeping a straight wrist, placing the thumb on the back of the neck opposite the middle valley between the first and second knuckles ought to do it. Don't expect miracles overnight; learning to play guitar takes the Three P's (Practice, Perseverance, and Patience.) Lotsa luck

[Park Ranger]

17 minutes ago, John Wells said:

Your so-called "Death grip" seems a habit formed while learning barre chords and has to be broken as one of the final things we have to learn in order to play with them. Breaking a habit is difficult, but the rewards are stupendous (Allus like to use dat word). Keeping a straight wrist, placing the thumb on the back of the neck opposite the middle valley between the first and second knuckles ought to do it. Don't expect miracles overnight; learning to play guitar takes the Three P's (Practice, Perseverance, and Patience.) Lotsa luck

Thanks so much for the advice.  I practice, I have perseverance, but need to work on the patience

[Randy120]

Lighten up! It isn't a strength contest. Pressing too hard will actually pull notes out of tune. Learn to play with a light touch. You will be amazed at the difference. As for Barre chords. Add a song that you want to play with a Barre chord. Play and repeat. You will fail for a while, but you will improve over time. You will be successful with Barre chords when you stop fearing them. Have fun with it!  

[Blue Dog]

So your guitar neck is screaming for mercy. and maybe your fingers too. well you have all ready started the fix and that is recognizing the problem. so just slow down and keep in mind lite touch. and in time it will work out. Good luck.

[NeilES335]

Be sure your guitar is set up properly with correct string height .  You might want to try lighter gauge (10's) while you get used to how light your finger pressure can be to produce a clear note or chord .

[Eracer_Team-DougH]

death grip happens as we play, we hear the string buzz start squeezing a little more still buzzes squeeze more.

sometimes all that's needed is a shift of fingers.