The Slap Technique
Hit the thumb against the string close to the fingerboard rapidly and firmly, twisting the wrist then releasing the thumb immediately after contact with the string. This rhythmic attack is characteristic to slap playing and is one of the selection of sounds that create the complete slap.
A long sustained note plays an important role in the outcome of the sound. It is achieved by the accuracy and firmness of the movement not by the force used. Smashing the string will not produce a clear sound and will in fact create unwanted background noise. Control of sustain is imperative.
Play Lick 67 using your thumb with the slapping technique.
Lick 68 uses the slapping technique combined with ghost notes (p14).
Don't forget to mute on the last beat of the bar.
Lick 70 uses the same techniques and rhythms but they are played using different notes of the E string.
Transpose all the above licks onto the A and D strings. In the early stages it may be difficult to avoid hitting the other strings by mistake (causing a ringing sound). Accuracy will come with practice. For more information on slapping see Progressive Slap Technique by Stephan Richter.
