Famous Guitarists that Used Rickenbacker Guitars
When it comes to iconic guitar sounds, few brands are as recognisable as Rickenbacker. From the jangly 12-string sound of The Byrds to the driving power chords of The Who’s Pete Townshend, Rickenbacker guitars have played a crucial role in shaping the sound of rock and roll over the past several decades. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most famous guitarists who have used Rickenbacker guitars throughout their careers. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just starting to explore the world of electric guitars, there’s something to learn from these legendary musicians and their signature Rickenbacker sounds.
1. John Lennon and George Harrison of The Beatles
John Lennon and George Harrison, two members of the legendary British rock band, The Beatles, are widely known for their distinctive sound achieved with their Rickenbacker guitars. Lennon’s signature 325 model was his go-to instrument for many of the band’s early hits, while Harrison’s 360/12 model was integral to the band’s later, more experimental sound. The Rickenbacker guitars used by Lennon and Harrison created a unique sound that defined a generation of music and had a lasting impact on the world of rock and roll. Their contributions to the music world are immeasurable, and their innovative use of Rickenbacker guitars helped to revolutionise the sound of rock music, which to this day, influences many budding and professional musicians alike.
2. Tom Petty of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Throughout his career, Tom Petty was also a proud owner of Rickenbacker guitars, which became an integral part of his distinctive sound. With its highly recognisable jangly sound and unique design, Petty helped shape the band’s signature sound with his custom Rickenbacker – the 360/12, a semi-hollow body guitar with twelve strings instead of the standard six. Tom Petty’s use of Rickenbacker guitars cemented his legacy as one of the most famous guitarists of all time and earned him a place in the pantheon of rock music history.
3. Pete Townshend of The Who
Considered to be one of the most influential guitarists of his era, Pete Townshend is renowned for his energetic performances and his very iconic windmill move. Townshend helped popularise the Rickenbacker 12-string guitar, which became synonymous with his sound. He used a Rickenbacker 330 throughout The Who’s early years, and the distinct sound of that guitar has become a defining characteristic of the band’s music. Beyond his musical contributions, Townshend also helped shape rock and roll culture with his bold stage presence and passionate songwriting.
4. Johnny Marr of The Smiths
Johnny Marr is a guitarist who has had an indelible influence on the world of rock music, and his use of Rickenbacker guitars has helped him create the unique and distinctive sound he’s known for. Marr made frequent use of the Rickenbacker’s 330 model, which he used on many of The Smiths’ iconic tracks. His mastery of the guitar and inventive use of Rickenbackers helped him to craft a sound that has been copied by countless other players over the years. Marr’s contributions to music and his genre-defying style have earned him widespread recognition as one of the era’s greatest guitarists.
In conclusion, Rickenbacker guitars have played an essential role in shaping the music of legendary guitarists. From the early days of rock music to modern-day rock, Rickenbacker guitars have been a go-to choice for musicians who want a distinct sound with a lot of personality. By looking at the musicians who have played these guitars, we can see how the instrument’s sound has been refined over the years. It’s evident that Rickenbacker guitars will continue to influence and shape the sound of music for years to come.