Hey guitar enthusiasts! Ever wondered how Eric Johnson gets that ethereal, almost vocal-like tone from his guitar? A big part of it lies in a technique he's become famous for: the float wire technique. This article dives deep into what it is, how it works, and how you can incorporate it into your playing to add some serious mojo to your sound. Let's get started, shall we?

Understanding the Float Wire Technique

At its core, the float wire technique involves manipulating the guitar's strings behind the bridge – that section of string between the bridge saddles and the tailpiece (or the back of the bridge on guitars like Stratocasters). By pressing down on these strings with your fingers or a pick, you can alter the overall string tension and create unique, shimmering harmonics and subtle pitch bends. Eric Johnson isn't the only guitarist to experiment with this area, but he's certainly one of its most celebrated practitioners, having refined it to a point where it's an immediately recognizable part of his signature sound. Think of songs like "Cliffs of Dover" and "Trademark" – you can clearly hear the float wire technique adding that extra layer of harmonic complexity. The beauty of this technique is in its subtlety. It's not about creating wild, out-of-tune sounds (though you could certainly experiment with that!). Instead, it's about adding gentle color and texture to your existing notes and chords. It's like adding a touch of reverb or chorus, but with a more organic and responsive feel. To really understand the mechanics, imagine each string behind the bridge as a miniature, secondary string section. When you press down on these segments, you're effectively changing their tension and creating sympathetic vibrations that interact with the main vibrating length of the string. This interaction is what produces those characteristic harmonics and subtle pitch variations. So, the next time you hear that unmistakable shimmer in Eric Johnson's playing, remember it's not just about fancy gear or complex scales – it's about the careful and deliberate manipulation of those strings behind the bridge.

How Eric Johnson Uses It

Eric Johnson's application of the float wire technique is particularly nuanced. He doesn't just randomly press down on the strings; he carefully selects which strings to manipulate and how much pressure to apply. This precise control is what allows him to create specific harmonic effects and subtle pitch inflections. One of the key aspects of Johnson's approach is his use of a pick to manipulate the strings behind the bridge. While some guitarists might use their fingers, Johnson finds that the pick offers greater precision and control. He'll often use the edge of the pick to gently press down on one or more strings, creating a shimmering harmonic overtone that complements the note he's playing on the fretboard. Another important element is his understanding of string tension and how it affects the resulting sound. He knows that even a slight change in pressure can produce a significant change in the harmonic content. This is why he often experiments with different amounts of pressure and different positions along the string length to find the sweet spot for each note or chord. Furthermore, Johnson often combines the float wire technique with other playing techniques, such as vibrato and bending, to create a more fluid and expressive sound. For example, he might use the float wire technique to add a subtle shimmer to a sustained note, then use vibrato to add further movement and emotion. He also adapts the technique to different guitars and setups. While he's primarily known for playing Fender Stratocasters, he's also used the float wire technique on other types of guitars, each with its own unique sonic characteristics. This adaptability is a testament to his deep understanding of the technique and his ability to apply it in different contexts. The key takeaway here is that Eric Johnson's use of the float wire technique is not just a gimmick or a random effect. It's a carefully considered and meticulously executed part of his overall playing style.

Getting Started with the Technique

Alright, so you're itching to try out the float wire technique yourself? Awesome! Here's a breakdown to get you started. First things first: your guitar. Some guitars are more suited to this technique than others. Guitars with a longer string length behind the bridge, like a Stratocaster with its tremolo system, tend to be easier to work with. The extra string length gives you more room to manipulate the strings and create those subtle harmonics. Guitars with a shorter string length, like a Les Paul, can still be used, but you might find it a bit trickier to get the hang of it initially. Next, you'll need a pick. As mentioned earlier, Eric Johnson often uses a pick for greater precision, and I recommend starting with that. Experiment with different pick thicknesses and materials to see what feels best for you. A thicker pick might give you more control, while a thinner pick might produce a more delicate sound. Now, let's talk about technique. Start by lightly pressing down on one or more of the strings behind the bridge with the edge of your pick. Don't press down too hard at first; you're aiming for subtle changes in the sound, not dramatic pitch bends. Listen carefully to how the tone changes as you apply pressure. You should hear a shimmering harmonic overtone that adds a subtle layer of complexity to the note you're playing. Experiment with different positions along the string length. The closer you are to the bridge saddles, the more pronounced the harmonic effect will be. The further away you are, the more subtle it will be. Try different combinations of strings. Pressing down on multiple strings at once can create interesting and complex harmonic textures. Don't be afraid to experiment and see what sounds you can come up with. Be patient! This technique takes time and practice to master. Don't get discouraged if you don't get it right away. Just keep experimenting and listening carefully, and you'll eventually start to get the hang of it. Start with simple chords and melodies. Once you're comfortable with the basics, try incorporating the float wire technique into more complex passages. The most important thing is to have fun and explore the sonic possibilities. This technique can add a whole new dimension to your playing, so don't be afraid to experiment and see where it takes you.

Tips and Tricks for Mastering the Float Wire

Alright, let's dive into some tips and tricks to help you truly master the float wire technique and unlock its full potential. First, experiment with different picks. As mentioned before, Eric Johnson prefers using a pick for added precision. Try various materials and thicknesses to discover what resonates best with your style. A sturdier pick can offer greater control, while a more flexible pick may produce a more subtle and nuanced sound. Second, adjust your guitar's setup. The height of your bridge and tailpiece can significantly impact the effectiveness of the float wire technique. Experiment with different settings to find the sweet spot that allows for optimal string manipulation behind the bridge. A higher action might make it easier to access the strings, while a lower action might provide a more comfortable playing experience. Third, practice your muting. Controlling unwanted string noise is crucial when using the float wire technique. Learn to mute the strings effectively with your picking hand and fretting hand to prevent any muddy or dissonant sounds. Palm muting and finger muting are your friends here! Fourth, listen to Eric Johnson's recordings. Pay close attention to how he uses the float wire technique in his songs. Analyze his phrasing, dynamics, and harmonic choices to gain a deeper understanding of how he incorporates it into his playing. Imitation is a great way to learn, so try to replicate his sounds and techniques. Fifth, record yourself. Recording your playing is a valuable tool for identifying areas that need improvement. Listen back to your recordings and analyze your technique, timing, and tone. Pay attention to any unwanted noises or inconsistencies and work on correcting them. Sixth, be subtle. The float wire technique is best used sparingly and with subtlety. Overusing it can quickly become grating and distracting. Focus on adding subtle textures and harmonic nuances rather than creating dramatic or jarring effects. Seventh, experiment with different tunings. Different tunings can create different harmonic possibilities and make it easier to access certain sounds. Try experimenting with alternate tunings like DADGAD or Open G to see what new sonic textures you can discover. Eighth, use it in conjunction with other techniques. The float wire technique can be combined with other playing techniques like vibrato, bending, and tapping to create even more expressive and dynamic sounds. Experiment with different combinations to see what you can come up with. Finally, practice consistently. Like any guitar technique, mastering the float wire technique requires consistent practice and dedication. Set aside some time each day to work on it, and don't get discouraged if you don't see results immediately. With enough practice, you'll eventually develop the skills and techniques necessary to use it effectively in your playing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, it's easy to stumble into some common pitfalls when learning the float wire technique. Let's highlight some mistakes to avoid, shall we? First, overdoing it. This is a big one. The float wire technique is like a spice – a little goes a long way. Laying it on too thick can quickly turn your sound from subtly shimmering to grating and unpleasant. Aim for nuance and restraint. Second, ignoring string noise. The area behind the bridge can be a breeding ground for unwanted buzzing and sympathetic vibrations. Muting those strings effectively is crucial. Use your palm, fingers, or even a small piece of felt to dampen any rogue sounds. Third, using too much pressure. You don't need to Hulk smash those strings behind the bridge! Gentle pressure is all it takes to create those subtle harmonics. Excessive force can lead to intonation problems and even damage your strings or bridge. Fourth, not experimenting. Sticking to the same few strings or positions will limit your sonic palette. Explore different areas behind the bridge, try different combinations of strings, and see what unique sounds you can discover. Fifth, neglecting your setup. A poorly set up guitar can make the float wire technique even more difficult. Make sure your action, intonation, and string gauge are all dialed in properly. A well-maintained guitar will respond much better to your touch. Sixth, getting discouraged too easily. This technique takes time and patience to master. Don't get frustrated if you don't sound like Eric Johnson overnight. Keep practicing, experimenting, and refining your technique, and you'll eventually get there. Seventh, not listening critically. Pay close attention to the sounds you're creating. Are they musical and pleasing, or are they harsh and dissonant? Train your ear to recognize the subtle nuances of the float wire technique and adjust your playing accordingly. Finally, forgetting the context. The float wire technique is just one tool in your toolbox. Don't rely on it as a crutch or a substitute for good phrasing, dynamics, and musicality. Use it sparingly and strategically to enhance your overall playing.

Conclusion

The float wire technique, popularized by guitar virtuoso Eric Johnson, is a powerful tool for adding subtle harmonic textures and unique sonic colors to your playing. While it may seem daunting at first, with practice, patience, and a willingness to experiment, you can master this technique and incorporate it into your own musical style. Remember to focus on precision, control, and subtlety, and avoid the common mistakes that can lead to unwanted noise and dissonance. So, grab your guitar, fire up your amp, and start exploring the sonic possibilities of the float wire technique. You might just surprise yourself with the sounds you can create! Happy shredding, guys!