Hey, Jim.

Originally Posted by: jpolito

Whenever I practice single note melodies to a particular song, no matter what I do I get these unwanted extra sounds from the other strings I am not trying to play.

You've got the right idea that you supposed to mute other strings. But not only with your right hand (picking palm). Your left hand (fretting hand) also plays a big part in this! In fact, it's rare that your left hand will not mute something when you are playing just about anything.

I cover left hand muting here in GF1:

http://www.guitartricks.com/tutorial.php?input=358

Have a look there, first to get the overall concept. Then, have a look through the single note melodies later in GF1 Chapter 4. In each melody you can see examples of how I mute unwanted sound with the sides & pads of my fingers. Just enough pressure, lightly resting against a string will usually do the job.

http://www.guitartricks.com/tutorial.php?input=436

It's often best to start by placing your fingers near the notes you need to play, then look for opportunities to mute the others strings based upon where your fingers are at the time.

It's a process of constant refinement. So, be on the look out for how other instructors are also left hand muting & be patient! :)

Hope this helps. Please ask more if necessary. Best of success!