Harvey Mandel: The Unsung Hero of Two-Handed Tapping in Rock History
Harvey Mandel stands as a pivotal figure in the narrative of rock music,particularly for his groundbreaking work with the two-handed tapping technique.
While guitar legends like Steve Hackett and Ace Frehley are often recognized for their contributions to this style, Mandel was already employing this innovative technique as early as the late 1960s, long before it became mainstream.
The technique gained widespread acclaim largely due to Eddie Van Halen, yet Mandel feels that his own contributions have not received the acknowledgment they deserve. “Not really,” he remarked in an interview with Guitar World when asked about receiving credit for his pioneering work. “I get some recognition on YouTube, but back in the day, I wasn’t part of a well-known band like Van Halen, who had a hit record. Consequently, my audience was much smaller.”
Mandel’s journey with two-handed tapping began in 1967, inspired by his bandmate Randy Resnick from the Pure Food and Drug Act. “Randy demonstrated it in a melodic yet straightforward manner. I was hesitant to try it in front of him, but once I observed his technique, I was able to practice and master it myself,” he explained.
“I was actually tapping long before Van Halen and many others popularized it. People frequently enough assumed I was a jazz musician!”
Reflecting on whether Van Halen drew inspiration from his style, Mandel recalls numerous shredders from the ’80s attending his performances and closely watching his technique. “I played at venues like the Whisky and the Starwood, where George Lynch, van Halen, and others witnessed my tapping. Soon after, Van Halen was incorporating it into his own style.He was an unbelievable player, and I have nothing negative to say about him. However, his approach was more acrobatic,” Mandel noted.
According to Mandel, Van Halen’s tapping style was characterized by flashy tricks, while he himself focused on a more melodic interpretation. “I also employed fast tapping, but I aimed to make it more musical, integrating it into the melodies of my songs rather than just showcasing technical prowess,” he stated.
Ritchie Blackmore once recounted witnessing Mandel’s tapping in 1968,alongside iconic figures like Jimi Hendrix and Jim Morrison. In contrast, Van Halen cited Jimmy Page as a notable influence on his tapping style, particularly referencing the pull-offs in Led Zeppelin’s Heartbreaker solo.
“I think I got the idea of tapping from watching Jimmy Page perform his heartbreaker solo back in 1971,” Van Halen shared. “He was doing a pull-off to an open string, and it struck me: ‘What if I use my finger as the nut and move it around?’ I took that concept and ran with it.”
Stay tuned for the complete interview with Harvey Mandel in the upcoming issue of Guitar World, where he delves deeper into his musical journey and the evolution of guitar techniques.
Unplugged Genius: Harvey Mandel on Pioneering Two-Handed Tapping and the Spotlight That Eluded Him
Unplugged Genius: Harvey Mandel on Pioneering two-Handed Tapping and the Spotlight That Eluded Him
The Early Years of Harvey Mandel
Harvey Mandel, a name that resonates with guitar enthusiasts, is often overshadowed by more mainstream rock icons. Born in 1945, Mandel’s journey into music began at a young age, influenced by the vibrant sounds of the 1960s. His unique approach to guitar playing, especially the two-handed tapping technique, has left an indelible mark on the music industry.
What is Two-Handed Tapping?
Two-handed tapping is a guitar technique that involves using both hands on the fretboard to create rapid, intricate melodies. This method allows for a fluid style of play that can produce complex musical phrases. While many associate this technique with Eddie Van Halen, Mandel was one of the first to incorporate it into his performances.
Key Features of Two-Handed Tapping
- Melodic Complexity: Enables the guitarist to play multiple notes simultaneously.
- Speed: Facilitates rapid note sequences that are difficult to achieve with traditional picking.
- Versatility: Can be applied across various genres, from rock to jazz.
harvey Mandel’s influence on Rock Music
Despite his significant contributions, Mandel’s name is frequently enough overlooked in discussions about guitar legends. He began using two-handed tapping in the late 1960s, well before it became popularized by other artists. His work with the band Canned Heat showcased his innovative style, yet he remained in the shadows as other guitarists gained fame.
Notable Performances and Collaborations
Mandel’s career includes collaborations with notable musicians and performances at iconic venues. Some highlights include:
- Performing at the Whisky a Go Go and the Starwood in Los Angeles.
- Sharing the stage with legends like Jimi Hendrix and Jim Morrison.
- Contributing to albums for various artists, showcasing his versatility and skill.
The Technique Behind the Magic
Harvey Mandel’s approach to two-handed tapping is distinct. He emphasizes melody over flashy tricks, focusing on creating musical phrases that resonate with listeners. Here’s a breakdown of his technique:
Steps to master Two-Handed Tapping
- Fretboard Familiarity: Understand the layout of your guitar and practice scales.
- Finger Independence: Work on exercises that develop dexterity in both hands.
- Melodic Practice: Start with simple melodies and gradually increase complexity.
- Incorporate Tapping: Begin adding tapping techniques to your practice routine.
Case Studies: The Impact of Mandel’s Technique
Several guitarists have cited Harvey Mandel as an influence in their own playing.Here are a few notable examples:
| guitarist |
Influence |
Notable Work |
| Eddie Van Halen |
Incorporated tapping into his signature style |
“eruption” |
| george Lynch |
Adopted tapping techniques in heavy metal |
Dokken’s “tooth and Nail” |
| Steve vai |
Utilized tapping for melodic expression |
“For the Love of God” |
First-Hand Experience: Mandel’s Perspective
In interviews,Mandel has expressed his thoughts on the evolution of guitar playing and the recognition he has received. He recalls watching younger guitarists adopt his techniques and feels a sense of pride,despite not receiving the credit he deserves. “I was doing it way before Van Halen and almost everyone else,” he stated, emphasizing his role as a pioneer.
Benefits of Learning Two-Handed Tapping
Mastering two-handed tapping can significantly enhance a guitarist’s skill set. Here are some benefits:
- Enhanced Creativity: Encourages exploration of new musical ideas.
- Improved Dexterity: Develops finger strength and coordination.
- Broader Musical Range: Allows for experimentation across genres.
Practical tips for Aspiring Guitarists
If you’re looking to incorporate two-handed tapping into your playing, consider these practical tips:
- Start slow: Focus on accuracy before speed.
- Use a metronome: Gradually increase the tempo as you improve.
- Record yourself: Listen back to identify areas for betterment.
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