Author: Clifton Burns

Steve Vai

Clifton Burns

Steve Vai is a legendary guitarist known for his technical ability, innovative playing style, and vast range of influences. Born in 1960 in Carle Place, New York, Vai began playing guitar at the age of 13 and quickly gained a reputation as a prodigious talent. Over the course of his career, he has become known for his virtuosic playing, his ability to blend different styles and genres, and his impressive array of equipment. In this article, we will take a closer look at the equipment that Steve Vai uses to achieve his unique sound.

Guitars

One of the most distinctive aspects of Steve Vai’s playing is his use of custom-made guitars. Over the years, he has collaborated with a number of guitar manufacturers, including Ibanez, to create instruments that are specifically tailored to his playing style. One of his most famous guitars is the Ibanez JEM, which he helped design in the late 1980s. The JEM features a distinctive “monkey grip” handle on the body, as well as a locking tremolo system and a unique set of DiMarzio pickups.

In addition to the JEM, Vai has also used a number of other custom-made guitars over the years, including the Ibanez Universe, a seven-string guitar that he helped develop in the early 1990s. He has also used guitars from other manufacturers, including a Gibson Les Paul and a Fender Stratocaster.

Amplifiers

Vai is known for his use of a variety of different amplifiers, including models from Marshall, Carvin, and Bogner. However, he is perhaps most closely associated with his use of the Legacy amplifier, which was designed by Carvin in collaboration with Vai himself. The Legacy is a high-gain amplifier that is capable of producing a wide range of tones, from clean and pristine to overdriven and distorted. It features a number of different EQ controls, as well as a built-in effects loop and a power attenuator that allows Vai to dial in just the right amount of volume for any given performance.

Effects Pedals

Like many guitarists of his caliber, Steve Vai is known for his use of a variety of different effects pedals to achieve his unique sound. He often uses a combination of distortion, overdrive, and modulation effects, as well as delay and reverb. One of his most famous pedals is the Ibanez Tube Screamer, which he has used to achieve his signature distorted tone on many of his recordings. He is also known for his use of the Eventide H3000, a digital effects processor that he uses to create a variety of different sounds, from chorus and flange to pitch shifting and harmonization.

Strings and Picks

Vai is known for his use of heavy gauge strings, which he uses to achieve a thick and powerful sound. He often uses sets of .010-.052 gauge strings, which provide a good balance between playability and tone. He is also known for his use of custom-made picks, which he designs himself. His picks are made from a material called “Primetone,” which is known for its durability and consistent tone. They feature a sharp point and a textured grip, which allow Vai to achieve his fast and fluid playing style.

Steve Vai is one of the most innovative and influential guitarists of his generation, and his equipment plays a crucial role in helping him to achieve his unique sound. His ability to blend different styles and genres, and his willingness to experiment with new sounds and techniques, have helped to inspire a generation of musicians. Whether he is playing a blistering guitar solo or a gentle ballad, Vai’s playing is always unmistakably his own, and his passion for the instrument.

Eddie Van Halen

Clifton Burns
From Youtube
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Eddie Van Halen was a legendary guitarist who forever changed the way we think about rock guitar. Born in Amsterdam in 1955, he moved with his family to California when he was just a child. Over the years, he became known for his innovative playing style, his incredible technical ability, and his love of pushing the boundaries of what was possible on the guitar. In this article, we will take a closer look at the equipment that Van Halen used to create his iconic sound.

Guitars

Van Halen is perhaps best known for his use of the “Frankenstein” guitar, a custom instrument that he built himself using parts from a variety of different guitars. The body of the guitar was a Stratocaster, the neck was a Charvel, and the pickups were from a Gibson humbucker. The result was a guitar that had a unique sound and feel, and which became closely associated with Van Halen’s playing style.

In addition to the Frankenstein guitar, Van Halen was also known for playing a number of other guitars, including a Kramer 5150 and a Gibson Flying V. He also played a variety of different models from companies such as Fender and Ibanez.

Amplifiers

One of the most distinctive aspects of Van Halen’s sound was his use of amplifiers. He was known for using a number of different amps, including a Marshall Super Lead and a Peavey 5150. However, he was perhaps most closely associated with his use of the “brown sound,” which he achieved by cranking up the volume on his amplifiers and using a variac to adjust the voltage going to the amp.

Effects Pedals

Van Halen was known for his use of effects pedals to create his distinctive sound. He often used a number of different pedals in his rig, including a MXR Phase 90, which he used to create his signature “phaser” sound. He was also known for using a variety of overdrive and distortion pedals, including the Ibanez Tube Screamer and the MXR Distortion+.

In addition to these pedals, Van Halen also used a number of other effects, including chorus and flanger pedals, as well as a digital delay unit. He was known for his skillful use of these effects, which he used to create a sound that was both unique and powerful.

Strings and Picks

Van Halen was known for his use of heavy gauge strings, which he used to achieve a thicker, more powerful sound. He often used Ernie Ball strings, and he sometimes used gauges as heavy as .013 for his low E string.

In terms of picks, Van Halen was known for his use of a variety of different picks, including standard medium picks and a custom-made pick that he designed himself. The pick had a pointed tip and a textured grip, which helped him to achieve his fast and fluid playing style.

Eddie Van Halen was one of the most innovative and influential guitarists of his generation, and his equipment played a crucial role in helping him to achieve his iconic sound. His love of experimentation and his willingness to push the boundaries of what was possible on the guitar helped to inspire a generation of musicians, and his legacy continues to be felt in the playing of countless guitarists around the world. Whether he was playing a searing guitar solo or a gentle ballad, Van Halen’s playing was always unmistakably his own, and his passion for the instrument shone through in every note.

Joe Bonamassa

Clifton Burns

Joe Bonamassa is one of the most celebrated guitarists of his generation, known for his impressive technical ability and his deep understanding of the blues tradition. Born in New Hartford, New York in 1977, Bonamassa was raised in a musical family and began playing guitar at a young age. Over the years, he has built a reputation as one of the finest guitarists in the world, and his music has earned him legions of fans around the globe. In this article, we will take a closer look at the equipment that Bonamassa uses to achieve his distinctive sound.

Guitars

Bonamassa is known for his love of vintage guitars, particularly Gibson and Fender models. He often uses a Gibson Les Paul for his performances, citing its warm tone and versatile sound as reasons why he prefers it. He also frequently plays a Fender Stratocaster, which he uses for its bright and clean sound.

One of Bonamassa’s most iconic guitars is his 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard, which he nicknamed “Skinnerburst.” This guitar has a unique finish that has faded over time, and it has become closely associated with Bonamassa’s playing style.

In addition to these guitars, Bonamassa also plays a number of other models, including a 1963 Gibson Firebird and a 1951 Fender Nocaster. He is also known for playing custom guitars made by luthier John Bolin.

Amplifiers

Bonamassa is known for his love of vintage amplifiers, and he often uses a variety of different models to achieve his sound. One of his most commonly used amps is a 1960s Fender Bassman, which he uses for its warm, full-bodied sound. He also frequently uses a Marshall JTM45 and a Vox AC30, both of which he uses to achieve a more aggressive, distorted sound.

Effects Pedals

Bonamassa is known for his use of effects pedals to create his distinctive sound. He often uses a number of different pedals in his rig, including a Dunlop Cry Baby wah pedal, which he uses for its expressive sound. He is also known for using a number of different overdrive and distortion pedals, including the Ibanez Tube Screamer and the Boss BD-2 Blues Driver.

In addition to these pedals, Bonamassa also uses a variety of modulation and time-based effects, including chorus, flanger, and delay pedals. He often uses a TC Electronic Flashback delay pedal, which he uses to create spacey, atmospheric sounds.

Strings and Picks

Bonamassa is known for using a variety of different strings, depending on the sound that he is looking to achieve. He often uses Ernie Ball strings, and he sometimes uses heavier gauges to achieve a thicker, more powerful sound.

In terms of picks, Bonamassa often uses a variety of different picks, but he is particularly associated with using a Dunlop Jazz III pick. He also sometimes uses a metal thumb pick, which he uses for slide playing.

Joe Bonamassa is one of the most talented and innovative guitarists of his generation, and his equipment plays a crucial role in helping him to achieve his distinctive sound. His love of vintage guitars and amplifiers, combined with his skillful use of effects pedals and his technical mastery of the instrument, have helped him to create a sound that is both timeless and modern. His music has won him legions of fans around the world, and his influence can be heard in the playing of countless guitarists who have been inspired by his work. Whether he is playing a searing blues solo or a gentle ballad, Bonamassa’s guitar playing is always unmistakably his own, and his passion for the instrument shines through in every note.

Stevie Ray Vaughan

Clifton Burns

Stevie Ray Vaughan is widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, and his influence on the world of blues and rock music is still felt today. Vaughan was known for his passionate and intense style of playing, and his powerful solos and riffs helped to redefine the genre of blues-rock. In this article, we will take a closer look at the equipment that Vaughan used to achieve his signature sound.

Guitars

Vaughan was known for his love of Fender Stratocaster guitars, and he was often seen playing a variety of different models throughout his career. One of his most famous guitars was a 1963 Fender Stratocaster that he nicknamed “Number One.” This guitar was famously beaten up and worn down over the years, and Vaughan often had to make repairs to keep it in playing condition.

Vaughan also played a variety of other Stratocaster models, including a 1965 Stratocaster that he nicknamed “Lenny” and a 1962 Stratocaster that he used for slide guitar work. He also played a Gibson ES-335 on occasion, which he used for a warmer, jazzier sound.

Amplifiers

Vaughan’s amplifier of choice was the Fender Super Reverb, which he used for much of his career. He also used a Fender Vibroverb and a Fender Vibro-King at different times. Vaughan was known for cranking his amps up to high volumes to achieve his signature sound, and he often used overdrive pedals to push the amp into distortion.

Effects Pedals

Vaughan was known for using a variety of effects pedals to achieve his signature sound. One of his most famous pedals was the Ibanez Tube Screamer, which he used to boost the signal of his guitar and push the amp into overdrive. He also used a Vox wah-wah pedal, which he used to create his distinctive “wah-wah” sound.

Other pedals that Vaughan used included the MXR Phase 90, which he used for his signature phaser sound, and the Electro-Harmonix Small Clone chorus pedal, which he used to add depth and dimension to his sound.

Strings and Picks

Vaughan used a variety of different strings over the years, but he was particularly associated with using heavy gauge strings. He often used GHS Boomers with a gauge of .013-.058. These heavy strings helped to give his playing a thicker, more powerful sound, and they allowed him to bend notes more easily.

Vaughan also used a variety of different picks over the years, but he was particularly associated with using a heavy gauge pick made by Fender. He often held the pick at an angle, which helped him to achieve his signature sound.

Stevie Ray Vaughan was a true master of the guitar, and his equipment played a crucial role in helping him to achieve his signature sound. His love of Fender Stratocasters and his use of heavy strings and high-volume amplifiers helped to give his playing a powerful and dynamic sound. His use of effects pedals and his skillful use of phrasing and dynamics also helped to make his playing unique and distinctive. Today, his influence can still be heard in the music of countless guitarists, and his legacy as one of the greatest guitarists of all time continues to grow.

Eric Clapton

Clifton Burns

Eric Clapton is one of the most influential guitarists of all time. He is known for his bluesy, soulful style and his ability to blend various genres of music, including rock, blues, and pop. Over the years, Clapton has used a variety of different guitars and equipment to achieve his signature sound. In this article, we will take a closer look at Eric Clapton’s musical career and the equipment he has used to create his music.

Early Years and Influence

Eric Clapton was born on March 30, 1945, in Ripley, Surrey, England. He was raised by his grandparents and grew up listening to music from artists such as Muddy Waters, Robert Johnson, and Chuck Berry. Clapton’s passion for music led him to pick up the guitar at the age of 13, and he quickly became obsessed with the instrument.

In his early years, Clapton was heavily influenced by the blues. He would spend hours listening to blues records and practicing his guitar playing. He became particularly enamored with the sound of blues legend B.B. King, who would later become a mentor and friend to Clapton.

Formation of Bands and Career

Clapton’s early bands included The Roosters and The Yardbirds. However, it wasn’t until he joined the band John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers that he gained widespread recognition. Clapton’s guitar playing on the album “Blues Breakers with Eric Clapton” became legendary, and the album has since been considered one of the greatest blues albums of all time.

After leaving The Bluesbreakers, Clapton formed the band Cream with Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker. Cream became one of the most influential rock bands of the 1960s, with Clapton’s guitar playing at the forefront of their sound. Songs like “Sunshine of Your Love” and “Crossroads” showcased Clapton’s incredible talent and his ability to fuse rock and blues together.

Clapton continued his musical career with various bands and as a solo artist. He had numerous hits throughout the 1970s and 1980s, including “Layla,” “Tears in Heaven,” and “Wonderful Tonight.” His music has continued to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.

Equipment

Eric Clapton has used a variety of different guitars and equipment over the course of his career. Here are some of the most notable pieces of equipment he has used:

Fender Stratocaster: Clapton has long been associated with the Fender Stratocaster, and it has become his signature guitar. He has used a variety of different Stratocasters over the years, including a 1956 “Blackie” Strat that he pieced together from various guitars. He has also used a custom-built Stratocaster that was made specifically for him by the Fender Custom Shop.

Gibson ES-335: Clapton has also used Gibson guitars throughout his career. The ES-335 is a semi-hollow body guitar that Clapton has used on numerous recordings, including the famous solo on “Crossroads.” He has also used a Gibson SG and a Gibson Firebird.

Martin Acoustic Guitar: Clapton has used a Martin acoustic guitar on many of his recordings. The Martin 000-28EC is a signature model that was designed specifically for Clapton.

Amplifiers: Clapton has used a variety of different amplifiers over the years. He has used Fender amps, including a Fender Twin Reverb and a Fender Vibroverb. He has also used Marshall amps, including a Marshall JTM45 and a Marshall Bluesbreaker.

Effects Pedals: Clapton is known for his minimalist approach to effects pedals, but he has used a few over the years. One of his most famous effects pedals is the Dallas Arbiter Fuzz Face, which he used on the solo for “Sunshine of Your Love.” He has also used a Wah-Wah pedal, a Uni-Vibe, and a Tube Screamer.

Strings: Clapton has used a variety of different strings over the years, but he is particularly associated with using Fender Super Bullets. These strings are known for their bright, clear sound, and they are often used by guitarists who play with a lot of distortion.

Picks: Clapton has used a variety of different picks over the years, but he is particularly associated with using a plastic pick made by Dunlop. He also uses his fingers to play fingerstyle guitar.

Eric Clapton is one of the greatest guitarists of all time, and his music continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike. His bluesy, soulful style and his ability to blend different genres of music have made him a true icon in the world of music. Over the course of his career, Clapton has used a variety of different guitars and equipment to achieve his signature sound, and his influence can still be heard in the music of countless guitarists today.

Brad Paisley

Clifton Burns

Brad Paisley is a highly acclaimed American country guitarist, known for his virtuosic playing style and ability to blend traditional country music with modern elements. He was born on October 28, 1972, in Glen Dale, West Virginia, and grew up in nearby Glen Dale.

Brad Paisley performs live on David Letterman

Paisley began playing guitar at the age of eight and was influenced by classic country guitarists such as Chet Atkins, Merle Travis, and Jerry Reed. He also drew inspiration from rock and roll guitarists such as Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton.

Over the years, Paisley has become known for his unique guitar sound, which is characterized by his use of chicken pickin’ techniques, fingerstyle playing, and a blend of traditional and modern tones. He is also known for his ability to seamlessly incorporate other instruments into his playing, such as the banjo, mandolin, and pedal steel guitar.

In terms of equipment, Paisley is known for his use of several different guitars and amplifiers, as well as a range of effects pedals to create his signature sound. One of his most famous guitars is a Fender Telecaster that he affectionately refers to as “Old Pink,” which he has been playing for over 20 years. He is also known for playing a Gibson Les Paul and a custom-made Crook Telecaster.

In terms of amplifiers, Paisley is a big fan of Dr. Z Amplification and has been known to use several different models, including the Maz 38 and the Z-Wreck. He is also known for using a variety of effects pedals to create his unique tone, including a Keeley Compressor, a Fulltone OCD overdrive, and a Boss DD-3 digital delay.

One of Paisley’s signature techniques is his use of the G-Bender, a device that is installed on his Telecaster that allows him to bend the B-string up a whole tone without using his fingers. This technique gives him the ability to create unique melodies and solos that are not possible with standard guitar playing techniques.

Paisley’s career began in the mid-1990s when he signed with Arista Nashville and released his debut album, “Who Needs Pictures,” in 1999. The album was a commercial success, reaching number 13 on the US Billboard 200 and spawning several hit singles, including “He Didn’t Have to Be” and “We Danced.”

Paisley’s subsequent albums have been equally successful, with several of them reaching number one on the US Country charts. His most successful album to date is “Time Well Wasted,” which was released in 2005 and won the Grammy Award for Best Country Album in 2007. The album features several hit singles, including “Alcohol,” “When I Get Where I’m Going,” and “The World.”

In addition to his successful music career, Paisley is also known for his charitable work and advocacy for various causes. He has worked with several organizations, including the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and has been a vocal advocate for veterans and their families.

Brad Paisley is a highly accomplished and respected country guitarist who has had a major impact on the genre. His unique blend of traditional and modern styles, virtuosic playing ability, and commitment to charitable causes have made him one of the most beloved and influential musicians of his generation.

Keith Urban

Clifton Burns

Keith Urban is a world-renowned Australian country musician and guitarist, who has won numerous awards and accolades for his work. He has a unique style of playing, blending country, rock, and pop elements to create a sound that is both modern and timeless. In this article, we will take a closer look at Keith Urban’s career and the equipment he uses to achieve his signature sound.

Born in New Zealand in 1967, Keith Urban moved to Australia as a child and began playing guitar at a young age. He rose to prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s, with a string of hits including “But for the Grace of God,” “Somebody Like You,” and “Who Wouldn’t Wanna Be Me.”

Keith Urban: Street Called Main Music Video

One of the key components of Urban’s sound is his guitar. He has been a longtime user of Gibson guitars, and his signature model, the Gibson Keith Urban Phoenix, is based on a modified 1958 Les Paul Junior. The guitar features a single P-90 pickup in the bridge position, giving Urban a powerful, yet focused tone.

In addition to his Gibson guitars, Urban also uses Fender Telecasters and Stratocasters, which he uses to achieve a more twangy and bright sound. He has also been known to use a Gretsch White Falcon on occasion, which gives him a unique, jangly tone.

Urban’s amplifier of choice is a 1965 Fender Deluxe Reverb, which provides him with a warm, clean tone that he can push into overdrive when needed. He also uses a variety of effects pedals, including a Fulltone OCD overdrive pedal, a Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble, and a TC Electronic Hall of Fame reverb pedal.

One of the things that sets Urban apart from other guitarists is his use of fingerpicking. He’s known for using a hybrid picking technique, which involves using a pick and his fingers to pluck the strings. This allows him to play complex lines with incredible speed and accuracy, and it’s a technique that’s become synonymous with his style.

Urban’s work as a musician has earned him numerous accolades over the years. He’s won four Grammy Awards, and he’s played on countless hit songs, including his own hits as well as collaborations with other artists. He’s also been a judge on the television show “American Idol,” which has helped to further raise his profile.

In addition to his work as a musician, Urban is also a dedicated philanthropist. He’s involved with numerous charitable organizations, including St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

Urban has also released a number of solo albums, starting with his self-titled debut album in 1991. His most recent album, “The Speed of Now Part 1,” was released in 2020 and features a mix of upbeat country-pop songs and ballads. The album showcases Urban’s incredible talent as both a guitarist and a songwriter, and it’s a must-listen for fans of his work.

Overall, Keith Urban is a highly talented musician and guitarist, whose unique blend of country, rock, and pop elements has won him fans all over the world. His dedication to his craft, his innovative approach to playing, and his philanthropic work have made him a highly respected figure in the music industry. Whether he’s playing on a hit song or recording his own material, Urban always delivers a level of musicality and passion that is truly inspiring.

Brent Mason

Clifton Burns

Brent Mason is a renowned Nashville session guitarist, widely recognized for his virtuosic ability and versatility across multiple genres. Mason’s career spans over three decades, during which he has played on countless recordings, from country to rock to pop. In this article, we’ll dive into Mason’s career and the equipment he uses to create his signature sound.

Brent Mason performs his song, Hot Wired

Born in 1963 in Van Wert, Ohio, Brent Mason began playing guitar at the age of five. He moved to Nashville in the early 1980s and quickly established himself as a sought-after session musician. His first major break came in 1991 when he played on Alan Jackson’s hit song “Don’t Rock the Jukebox,” which helped to launch his career.

Mason’s unique style is a blend of country, rock, and jazz, and his technical ability on the guitar is second to none. He’s known for his precise, lightning-fast picking and his ability to effortlessly shift between styles.

One of the key components of Mason’s sound is his guitar. He’s been a longtime user of Paul Reed Smith (PRS) guitars, and his signature model, the Brent Mason Signature model, is based on a modified 1968 Fender Telecaster. The guitar features a Seymour Duncan mini-humbucker in the neck position and a Seymour Duncan Hot Stack in the middle position, providing Mason with a versatile range of tones. The guitar also features a custom-wound Lollar El Rayo humbucker in the bridge position, which gives Mason his signature sound.

Mason’s amplifier of choice is a 1960 Fender Tweed Twin, which he’s been using for years. The amp provides Mason with a warm, clean tone that he can push into overdrive when needed. He also uses a variety of effects pedals, including an Analogman King of Tone overdrive pedal, a Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble, and a TC Electronic Hall of Fame reverb pedal.

One of the things that sets Mason apart from other guitarists is his unique approach to playing. He’s known for using a hybrid picking technique, which involves using a pick and his fingers to pluck the strings. This allows him to play complex lines with incredible speed and accuracy, and it’s a technique that’s become synonymous with his style.

Mason’s work as a session musician has earned him numerous accolades over the years. He’s won the Academy of Country Music’s Guitarist of the Year award multiple times, and he’s played on countless hit songs, including George Strait’s “Blue Clear Sky,” Brooks and Dunn’s “Boot Scootin’ Boogie,” and Shania Twain’s “Whose Bed Have Your Boots Been Under?”

In addition to his session work, Mason has also released a number of solo albums. His first album, “Hot Wired,” was released in 1997 and features a blend of country, rock, and jazz. The album was a critical and commercial success, and it earned Mason a Grammy nomination for Best Country Instrumental Performance.

Mason’s most recent album, “Smokin’ Section,” was released in 2020 and features a mix of original songs and covers. The album showcases Mason’s incredible talent as both a guitarist and a songwriter, and it’s a must-listen for fans of his work.

In addition to his work as a musician, Mason is also an in-demand guitar instructor. He’s released a series of instructional DVDs and has taught master classes all over the world. His approach to teaching focuses on developing good technique and building a solid foundation of skills that can be applied to any style of music.

In conclusion, Brent Mason is a true guitar virtuoso and a master of his craft. His unique style and technical ability have made him one of the most sought-after session guitar
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ists in Nashville and beyond, and his influence can be heard on countless recordings. Mason’s dedication to his craft and his willingness to experiment with different styles and techniques have made him a highly respected musician and a true innovator in the world of guitar.