As I strummed the final chord of our set, I felt a sudden snap. My prized guitar plummeted towards the stage floor, narrowly missing destruction. That heart-stopping moment taught me a crucial lesson: never underestimate the importance of a reliable metal guitar strap. As a luthier and former engineer, I’ve always been fascinated by the … Read more
I’ll never forget the day I stumbled upon a hidden guitar fingerpicking technique that revolutionized my playing. It was like unlocking a secret door to a world of musical possibilities. As someone who’s been strumming since childhood, I thought I knew it all—until that moment. What if I told you that this technique could transform … Read more
I’ll never forget the day I picked up my prized 1959 Martin D-28, only to hear the sickening crack of its bridge lifting off the body. That moment changed everything. As a luthier with over two decades of experience, I’ve witnessed countless guitars fall victim to the silent killer: improper humidity. It’s a tragedy that’s … Read more
The moment I strapped on my first Grateful Dead guitar strap, I felt an instant connection to decades of musical history. It wasn’t just a piece of leather and fabric; it was a portal to the psychedelic era, a badge of honor for Deadheads, and a statement of musical identity. As I’ve discovered through years … Read more
As a long-time editor of ‘Acoustic Guitar’ magazine, I’ve witnessed countless guitarists grapple with the enigmatic G# minor chord. It’s a shape that has brought both frustration and epiphany to players of all levels. I remember the day a young guitarist walked into our studio, her fingers calloused and her spirit nearly broken. She had … Read more
The first time I held a sapele wood guitar, I was skeptical. Could this lesser-known African tonewood truly rival the revered mahoganies and rosewoods that had dominated guitar craftsmanship for centuries? Little did I know that this encounter would spark a journey of discovery, challenging everything I thought I knew about guitar tonewoods. As an … Read more
The first time I strummed a baritone guitar, I felt like I’d unlocked a secret level in the world of music. The deep, resonant tones transported me to a realm where familiar chords took on new life, and my compositions gained unexpected depth. Little did I know that this moment would spark a lifelong passion … Read more
The moment I plugged in the EVH 5150 guitar and struck that first chord, I knew I was holding something extraordinary. The raw power and unmistakable tone that erupted from my amp transported me to the front row of a Van Halen concert. But what made this instrument truly special wasn’t just its sound—it was … Read more
As I plugged in the BOSS ME-90 for the first time, I couldn’t help but wonder: Could this be the multi-effects pedal that finally bridges the gap between digital convenience and analog soul? With decades of experience reviewing guitar gear, I’ve seen countless attempts to create the perfect all-in-one solution. But as I scrolled through … Read more
As I held the Kramer Pacer for the first time, its sleek body and vibrant finish instantly transported me back to the golden era of hair metal. Little did I know that this guitar would not only redefine my playing style but also become a pivotal instrument in shaping the sound of an entire generation. … Read more