How do artists like John Frusciante, Slash, etc. write solos?!
Question: And how do you write a solo on guitar?
Answers: And how do you write a solo on guitar?
Well, it's best to learn that from such things as blues pentatonic scales, taking music theory, etc. I say, to get a better solo, start the song off with chord progressions like playing a few chords then build up going to a solo. Ex: start on C# or Db (Same thing actually) and build the solo off using that sharp and\or flat or even naturals like G, D, A, E.
Look up the blues pentatonic scale. They usually branch their solos from that scale. Hammer-ons and pull-offs are also a big part of both of their styles.
they just start playing some riffs and licks. Whatever they like they just write down, then they compile an entire song out of nothing but riffs and licks.
With both of them, they probably run through with the scratch
track, or during rehearsals while writing. While recording,
improv and keep best takes, composite different tracks, etc.
Some people work lead stuff out totally, others just hit record
and go.
Depends on the song.
If you're looking to "write" or come up with solo ideas, it
depends on you and what you're looking to do, your style,
etc.
If you're not up on scales, try the route mentioned here and
start with either your Major or Minor Pentatonic. You can
find these online in, probably, a billion places.
For a particular song, learn the vocal melody. Try playing
around with it, adding notes, bends, slides to other notes
that work in that key, etc.
At the very least it'll start the mind working on ideas.
If you have a recorded version of the song, listen to it away
from your instrument. Hum along whatever you're hearing
when the solo section comes up and try to learn that, or
something that comes out when you do have the guitar in
hand.