Originally Posted By: avatars_the_titletrack
it's really pretty simple, just memorize the riff. A riff is just a motive, if one can't memorize that, he should work on ear training.


I agree with ear training. Still a 'riff' for some of us is a challenge, despite having well trained ears. It is never just a succession of notes. It is also a specific feel, emphasis etc. That is where I have challenges copying another. In fact I can play competently, but cannot copy others well in the least. I just don't have anybody's else's natural phrasing. I have done this with success a few times, but it never sticks in muscle memory. I have my own natural phrasing that is so embedded that any riff I learn becomes a variation of the original. I know some players who can 'note for note' other players. It can be impressive and I can deeply respect the talent and yet it doesn't actually excite me. Cheers!