One of the best beginner chords to learn is the D guitar chord. As one of the most common guitar chords, you will encounter the D major chord in many songs from all genres. The D chord and its variations offer many possibilities for guitar players of all skill levels. Whether you are learning your …
Before there were giant amp walls or electric guitars that became standardized across many genres, music was strictly done acoustically. However, the electric guitar didn’t replace the acoustic guitar. Both instruments continue to have their own niche as tools of expression for musicians. A piece of wood and a set of strings can achieve a …
Whether you’re out on a road trip or jamming with friends, a lightweight, and portable guitar amp is a handy piece of gear. With modern advancements in digital technology, a portable guitar amp can still give you some great classic amp tones that are perfect for practicing on the go or rehearsing at home. Whether …
Rock and roll has come a long way since its inception back in the 1950s. Over the past seven decades or so, we’ve seen it evolve and go into some new and unexpected directions. In fact, when we look back and see how it all evolved, we begin to wonder whether there was some other-worldly …
As a guitarist, Mark Knopfler is truly a virtuoso of the instrument. But also as a singer-songwriter, his unique take on country and folk sparked the stratospheric rise of Dire Straits. A four-time Grammy winner, he maintained the band’s success even when his music taste shifted. His music transcends both new wave and pub rock, …
As a bass player, your go-to tone will probably be a clean sound, and this is where a preamp will show its worth. In contrast to the other types of pedals, a preamp is hardly noticeable, since its main role is to shape your fundamental bass tone. If you own a passive bass, a preamp …
One of the few guitar-based bands to endure the 21st century’s cultural shift away from rock and toward rap and hip hop, the Arctic Monkeys have never been short of a catchy tune or ten. Although the band’s style has changed markedly over the years, the riffs, lyrics, and ear-turning melodies remained consistent. The Arctic …
The 90s were certainly nothing short of an entire decade of musical talents changing the way we know and enjoy the rock genre and in this decade, music lovers were gifted with the virtuoso John Frusciante from the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Though his trajectory with the band has been neck-deep in turmoil throughout the …
Just the mention of a multi effects unit evokes mixed reactions from guitarists and bass players alike. Purists will shun them, because “analog is always better”, while others, who value functionality, portability, versatility, and a much lower cost than a fully stocked analog pedalboard, will swear by them. This discussion won’t go away anytime soon, …
Hall of Fame lead guitarist Mike McCready holds an odd place in the realm of rock and roll. Joined by his ever enigmatic band, Pearl Jam, McCready has been consistently productive, inventive, and admired for over 30 years. Yet too many people who are not guitarists nor passionate Pearl Jam fans barely hold the faintest …