Are backing tracks worth using?

[MaddoxDelgado]

I know practicing to a metronome is a must and I have to admit I avoid using them often. When practicing I tend to go at my own pace which tends to bit quicker than the songs tempo. Are backing tracks good to use in place of a metronome?

 

[Xzavier471]

Imo backing tracks should always be the main thing used when practicing but I guess not using them 100 percent of the time isn't a bad idea either

 

[Ed Seith]

If you doing exercises, a metronome might be a better choice, but if you're doing a lead or melody or playing a whole song, then absolutely. In my formative years, I found that playing along to albums and cassettes (yeah, this was before CDs and the internet) got me ready for playing in a band.

 

[Kyle Roberts]

The thing I see most is as long as you play in the pocket of the music you will be ok. In a live environment with other players you wont be perfectly note for note, but if you are playing certain types of music you will definitely notice the guitar pushing a pace