Most free tabs look like a wall of numbers. Players rush to play "fast."
On the other hand, the free tab community acts as a massive, unpaid marketing engine. A teenage guitarist struggling through a free Andy James tab might become a lifelong fan, attend concerts, and buy merchandise. For lesser-known virtuosos, having freely available tabs can be the difference between obscurity and a cult following. James himself has benefited from this; many of his fans first encountered his playing through YouTube covers that used unofficial tabs. The “free” model thus transforms passive listeners into active participants, creating a skilled, loyal audience.
: For a more comprehensive collection, JTC Guitar offers an Andy James Ultimate Box Set which includes detailed transcriptions of his most popular tracks. Free Transcriptions (Video & Preview)
If you are looking to learn this track without spending a dime, here is a breakdown of the song and how to approach the guitar arrangement. andy+james+85+guitar+tab+free
Before we dive into the tabs, it's helpful to know who Andy James is and why his playing stands out. Known as a guitar virtuoso and a "YouTube phenomenon", he’s famous for both his impressive technique and his educational content, including tutorials and DVDs released with leading companies such as . As a member of the heavy metal band Sacred Mother Tongue and a former touring guitarist for Five Finger Death Punch , his solo work is a must-know for modern metal players.
Keep your bass moderate to prevent muddiness, boost the mids to help your lead lines cut through the mix, and set the treble for a crisp, sharp attack.
To play "85" and sound authentic, it helps to know what Andy James is using to get his tone. Here’s a quick look at his setup: Most free tabs look like a wall of numbers
: Dedicated guitarists frequently share their own transcriptions on social platforms. For instance, Long Gilbert on Facebook has shared video transcriptions specifically for "'85" licks.
To play "85" cleanly, you cannot just memorize the fret numbers. You must understand the mechanics behind Andy James's signature style. 1. The Melodic Hook (The Theme) The song opens with a soaring, highly melodic theme.
Rapid, synchronized picking sequences that require absolute precision between your left and right hands. For lesser-known virtuosos, having freely available tabs can
Practice plan (4 weeks) Week 1: Learn main riff + pre-chorus at 60–70% tempo; focus on timing and muting. Week 2: Add lead theme and simple bends; practice with slow backing track. Week 3: Work on solo fragments (tapping, sweeps) with a metronome up to target tempo. Week 4: Run full piece with backing track, record and fix timing/pitch issues.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the core sections of "85," details the exact techniques required to play it, and directs you to the best resources for high-quality, free tablature. Technical Specifications for "85"
Master Andy James's "85": The Ultimate Guide to Free Guitar Tabs and Technical Mastery
: YouTube is an excellent resource for visual learners. Many guitarists upload full covers of "85" accompanied by on-screen scrolling tablature . This allows you to hear the phrasing and see the exact finger placement simultaneously.
