How to Do Wah Wah Effects for the Electric Guitar

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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That distinctive wah-wah of the electric guitar first became popular in the 1960s. It was something Eric Clapton, and, the guitar king, Jimi Hendrix made famous. The good news is that you don't have to be either Eric Clapton or Jimi Hendrix to do the wah-wah yourself. All you need is an electric guitar, a guitar effect foot pedal and some gumption. Get crying, baby!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Electric guitar
Guitar effects foot pedal

Step 1

Make the first part of the wah-wah by stepping down on the foot pedal with your toe. This makes the open "ah" sound.
Step 2

Step on the foot pedal with your heel to make the second part of the wah-wah. This makes the "whoo" sound.
Step 3

Put the two sounds together to get the wah-wah effect.
Step 4

Vary the spaces in between the two sounds. You can play the open "ah" sound then the "whoo" slowly, in a syncopated fashion, or you can speed it up so the two sounds are closer together.
Step 5

Use the wah-wah in blues, funk or even metal.
Step 6

Experiment with the different effects and ways of playing the wah-wah. Add it to whatever song you like, and let your own imagination be your guide. Remember this: if it sounds cool, it can't be wrong.