Discographies and Genealogies of Hundreds of Classic Rock Bands
The Korg ARP 2600 is a legendary analog synthesizer that has made a significant impact on the history of electronic music. It was developed in the early 1970s by the American company ARP Instruments in collaboration with Alan R. Pearlman, and later it was reissued by Korg in 2019.
...continue reading "The Korg ARP 2600 Synthesizer"The Swampers were a renowned group of session musicians based in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. They played a significant role in shaping the sound of American popular music during the 1960s and 1970s. The group initially formed as the rhythm section for FAME Studios, and later established their own studio, Muscle Shoals Sound Studio.
Origins: The "Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section" came together in the early 1960s when Rick Hall founded FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals. The original lineup consisted of Norbert Putnam on bass, David Briggs on keyboards and Jerry Carrigan on drums. They played on many recordings produced by Rick Hall.
The group would eventually be lured away by other recording studios in Nashville, Tennessee. Hall hired a replacement group comprised of Barry Beckett, Roger Hawkins, David Hood and Jimmy Johnson, initially called "the Second FAME Gang", but widely known by the nickname "The Swampers."
Move to Muscle Shoals Sound Studio: In 1969, the Swampers left FAME Studios due to a contract dispute and established their own recording studio called Muscle Shoals Sound. The new studio attracted a wide range of musicians from various genres who sought out the Swampers' unique sound and tight rhythm section.
Musical Style and Contributions: The Swampers were known for their distinct blend of R&B, soul, rock, and country music. Their ability to seamlessly switch between genres allowed them to work with a diverse range of artists. They had a reputation for providing solid grooves, tight rhythms, and tasteful musical embellishments that enhanced recordings.
Notable Collaborations: The Swampers worked with numerous legendary artists and bands, including Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett, Percy Sledge, The Staple Singers, Paul Simon, Bob Seger, Rod Stewart, The Rolling Stones, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Bob Dylan and many others. They contributed to hit songs like "Respect" by Aretha Franklin, "Brown Sugar" by The Rolling Stones, and "Kodachrome" by Paul Simon.
Fame and Recognition: The Swampers' reputation grew steadily over the years, and their contributions to popular music were highly regarded. They were mentioned by name in the lines "Now, Muscle Shoals has got The Swampers, And they've been known to pick a song or two" in the Lynyrd Skynyrd song "Sweet Home Alabama." Their work was featured in the 2013 documentary "Muscle Shoals," which further elevated their recognition.
Later Years and Legacy: Muscle Shoals Sound Studio moved to a new location in 1979, an abandoned former National Guard armory the city of Sheffield, Alabama offered them at an attractive price to dissuade a move to a competing town. The new studio also marked a move toward production and publishing rather than performing.
Muscle Shoals Sound Studio closed its doors in 1985, but the legacy of the Swampers continued to influence music. The original members pursued successful careers as session musicians, producers, and songwriters, individually contributing to the music industry. The original Muscle Shoals Sound Studio building was later reopened and continues to operate as a historic landmark.
The Swampers' contributions to popular music and their unique sound have left an indelible mark on the industry. Their ability to cross genres and enhance recordings with their exceptional musical talents solidifies their place in music history.
Jimi Hendrix, born Johnny Allen Hendrix on November 27, 1942, and later renamed James Marshall Hendrix, was an American guitarist, singer, and songwriter. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential and iconic musicians in the history of rock music. Hendrix's innovative approach to guitar playing, combined with his experimental sound and charismatic stage presence, revolutionized the genre and established him as a true legend.
Early Life and Career:
Hendrix was born in Seattle, Washington. He developed an interest in music at a young age, inspired by blues, R&B, and rock and roll artists like B.B. King, Muddy Waters, Elvis Presley, and Chuck Berry. He received his first guitar at the age of 15 and quickly mastered the instrument, playing in various local bands.
In 1961, Hendrix enlisted in the United States Army but was honorably discharged in 1962 due to an injury. He then began his professional music career, playing in backup bands for artists such as Little Richard, the Isley Brothers, and Curtis Knight.
Breakthrough and Formation of the Jimi Hendrix Experience:
Hendrix moved to London in 1966, where he formed the Jimi Hendrix Experience with bassist Noel Redding and drummer Mitch Mitchell. It was in London that Hendrix gained widespread attention and acclaim for his extraordinary guitar skills and unique sound.
The band released their debut album, "Are You Experienced," in 1967, which showcased Hendrix's virtuosic playing, creative songwriting, and innovative use of guitar effects and techniques. The album included hits like "Purple Haze," "Hey Joe," and "The Wind Cries Mary," and it firmly established Hendrix as a rising star in the music world.
Musical Style and Technique:
Hendrix's guitar playing was characterized by his mastery of the electric guitar and his ability to push its sonic boundaries. He combined elements of blues, rock, funk, and psychedelia, creating a distinct and revolutionary sound. Hendrix pioneered the use of feedback, distortion, and controlled noise, expanding the possibilities of the electric guitar as an expressive instrument.
His guitar solos were marked by their fiery intensity, intricate phrasing, and melodic sensibility. Hendrix was known for his improvisational skills, often incorporating extended jams and improvisations into his live performances. His use of innovative techniques, such as playing with his teeth or behind his back, added to his stage persona and made him a captivating performer.
Legacy and Influence:
Jimi Hendrix's impact on popular music cannot be overstated. His short but prolific career left an indelible mark on rock, and his influence continues to be felt today. He inspired countless guitarists and musicians, from his contemporaries to future generations.
Hendrix's influence can be heard in the work of artists like Eric Clapton, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Eddie Van Halen, Prince, and many others. His music transcended genres and cultural boundaries, making him a cultural icon and a symbol of the counterculture movement of the 1960s.
Tragically, Hendrix's career was cut short when he died on September 18, 1970, at the age of 27 due to an accidental overdose of sleeping pills. However, his music and legacy continue to resonate, and he is remembered as one of the greatest guitarists and performers of all time.
Hendrix's discography includes several influential albums, such as "Axis: Bold as Love" (1967) and "Electric Ladyland" (1968), both recorded with the Jimi Hendrix Experience. Additionally, posthumous albums featuring unreleased material have been released over the years, further cementing his status as a legendary figure in music history.
"The Wrecking Crew" was a highly talented and influential group of session musicians who played a significant role in shaping the sound of popular music during the 1960s and 1970s. Based primarily in Los Angeles, California, this collective of musicians was known for their versatility, technical skill, and ability to adapt to a wide range of musical styles.
The Wrecking Crew comprised a rotating roster of musicians, but some of the core members over the years included guitarists Tommy Tedesco, James Burton and Glen Campbell; bassists Carol Kaye and Larry Knechtel; drummers Hal Blaine, Jim Gordon, Jim Keltner and Joe Porcaro; keyboardists Mac Rebennack (Dr. John), Leon Russell and Larry Knechtel; saxophonists Plas Johnson and Jim Horn; and many others. These individuals were seasoned professionals who had honed their craft through years of performing and recording.
The group emerged at a time when record labels and producers sought to maximize efficiency and productivity in the recording process. Rather than relying solely on the artists themselves to record their songs, the practice of using session musicians became more prevalent. The Wrecking Crew quickly gained a reputation for their exceptional musicianship, adaptability, and ability to deliver high-quality recordings in a short amount of time.
Members of The Wrecking Crew contributed to a vast number of hit songs and albums across various genres. They worked with renowned artists such as The Beach Boys, Elvis Presley, The Mamas & the Papas, Simon & Garfunkel, Frank Sinatra, The Monkees, The Byrds, The Righteous Brothers, and many others. They played on numerous iconic tracks, including "Good Vibrations" by The Beach Boys, "California Dreamin'" by The Mamas & the Papas, and "Mrs. Robinson" by Simon & Garfunkel, to name just a few.
Their skills extended beyond traditional rock and pop music, as they also played on numerous film and television soundtracks, including those for popular TV shows like "Mission: Impossible" and "M*A*S*H." The Wrecking Crew's contributions can be heard on countless classic recordings from the 1960s and 1970s, making them an integral part of the "California Sound" and the overall development of popular music during that era.
Despite their significant contributions to the music industry, The Wrecking Crew often worked behind the scenes, with their names not appearing on album covers or receiving proper credit for their performances. This practice was common in the session musician world at the time. It wasn't until later years that their contributions were more widely recognized, and documentaries such as "The Wrecking Crew" (2008) shed light on their work and celebrated their immense talent.
The legacy of The Wrecking Crew continues to inspire musicians and music lovers to this day. Their collective impact on the sound of popular music cannot be overstated, as they played an essential role in shaping the musical landscape of the 1960s and 1970s, leaving an indelible mark on countless recordings that have stood the test of time.
From 1973, in no particular order:
Jimmy Page is an iconic English guitarist, songwriter, and producer who is best known as the founder and leader of the legendary rock band Led Zeppelin. Born on January 9, 1944, in Heston, Middlesex, England, Page is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential guitarists in the history of rock music.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings:
Jimmy Page developed an interest in music at a young age and started playing the guitar as a teenager. He was primarily influenced by blues guitarists such as B.B. King, Albert King, and Elmore James. As a teenager in the 1950s, he joined a "skiffle" group, playing a type of folk music popular in England at the time.
Before forming Led Zeppelin, Page gained recognition as a session musician and played on numerous recordings for artists like The Kinks, The Who, and The Rolling Stones. He also worked as a member of the Yardbirds, a prominent British rock band of the 1960s.
Formation of Led Zeppelin:
In 1968, Page formed Led Zeppelin, a groundbreaking rock band that would go on to become one of the most successful and influential bands in history. The original lineup included Robert Plant on vocals, John Paul Jones on bass and keyboards, John Bonham on drums, and Jimmy Page as the lead guitarist.
Musical Style and Contributions:
Jimmy Page's guitar playing is characterized by his virtuosity, creativity, and diverse range of styles. He blended elements of blues, rock, folk, and psychedelia to create a unique sound that defined the sound of Led Zeppelin.
He was known for his innovative use of guitar effects, such as the violin bow technique, which he used to create distinctive sounds on songs like "Dazed and Confused."
Page's iconic guitar riffs, solos, and compositions played a crucial role in shaping Led Zeppelin's sound and making them one of the most influential rock bands of all time. Songs like "Stairway to Heaven," "Whole Lotta Love," and "Kashmir" are considered timeless classics.
Songwriting and Production:
Along with his exceptional guitar skills, Page was also a prolific songwriter and producer. He co-wrote many of Led Zeppelin's songs with Robert Plant, and his production work on their albums showcased his meticulous attention to detail.
Page's production techniques often involved layering guitars and experimenting with various studio effects, resulting in a rich and textured sound. His production work contributed significantly to the band's sonic identity.
Achievements and Legacy:
Led Zeppelin achieved enormous commercial success, selling over 300 million records worldwide. They released iconic albums like "Led Zeppelin," "Led Zeppelin II," "Led Zeppelin IV," and "Physical Graffiti," among others.
The band's live performances were legendary, known for their energy, improvisation, and extended instrumental jams. Page's guitar solos during live shows were highly acclaimed and showcased his mastery of the instrument.
Jimmy Page's influence on subsequent generations of guitarists is immeasurable. His innovative playing style and creative approach to guitar techniques continue to inspire musicians worldwide.
In recognition of his contributions to music, Page has received numerous awards and honors, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (as a member of Led Zeppelin) and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
Beyond Led Zeppelin:
Following the disbandment of Led Zeppelin in 1980 after the death of drummer John Bonham, Page pursued various solo projects and collaborations. He released solo albums like "Outrider" (1988) and collaborated with artists like David Coverdale, Paul Rodgers, and The Black Crowes.
In the 1990s, Page participated in a Led Zeppelin reunion for the "Unledded" project.
The Gibson Les Paul is one of the most iconic and revered electric guitar models in history. Its rich history spans over several decades, beginning in the early 1950s. Here's a brief overview of the Les Paul's history:
Development and Introduction (1950-1952):
The Les Paul model was developed by Gibson in collaboration with renowned guitarist and inventor, Les Paul. The initial prototype, known as "The Log," was created by Les Paul himself in the late 1940s, named for the pine block running through the middle of the guitar. Hollow guitar sides or "wings" were added to achieve a conventional shape. Paul had brought his prototype to Gibson, but it was rejected.
In 1951, Gibson president Ted McCarty and his team began work on what would eventually become the Les Paul model. The intent in developing the guitar was not so much to compete with Fender's solid body electric as it was to outshine it; Gibson's would be a well-made-- and expensive-- guitar. McCarty's intent in approaching Les Paul for the right to imprint the musician's name on the headstock was mainly with an eye toward increased sales.
In 1952, Gibson officially introduced the Les Paul Goldtop model. It featured a solid mahogany body with a carved maple top, a glued-in mahogany neck, two P-90 single-coil pickups, and a trapeze tailpiece.
The Gibson Les Paul Custom (1954-1960):
In 1954, Gibson introduced the Les Paul Custom, also known as the "Black Beauty." It featured an all-black finish, multiple binding on the body and headstock, gold hardware, and an ebony fingerboard with mother-of-pearl inlays. The original Customs were fitted with a P-90 pickup in the bridge position and an Alnico V "staple" pickup in the neck. In 1957, the Custom was fitted with Gibson's new PAF humbucker pickups, and later became available with three pickups instead of the usual two.
When the original Les Pauls were discontinued in 1960, the Custom model's features and designation were transferred to a new SG Custom model.
Evolution and Innovations (Late 1950s-1960):
Gibson continued to refine and evolve the Les Paul model throughout the late 1950s and into the 1960s. In 1957, Gibson introduced the PAF (Patent Applied For) humbucking pickups, which provided a warmer and thicker tone compared to the original P-90 pickups. The Les Paul Standard was introduced in 1958, featuring a sunburst finish, a tune-o-matic bridge, and a stop tailpiece.
For all its innovations, the Les Paul Standard didn't sell well. The guitar was heavy, and Gibson was still marketing primarily to an older, jazz-oriented audience. As a result, fewer than 2000 of the model were sold 1958-1960.
In 1961, Gibson made some design changes to the Les Paul, giving it a thinner body and a double-cutaway shape. These models are commonly referred to as the "SG" (Solid Guitar) series. Les Paul did not approve of the changes, and asked his name be removed from the guitars. Even so, many press and promotional photos, and even album covers exist showing both Paul and his wife Mary Ford with 1961 SG Custom model guitars. And, for a period of time, some were still sold with "Les Paul" inscribed on the truss rod covers.
Discontinuation (1960) and Reintroduction (Late 1960s-1970s):
Despite its initial success, sales of the Les Paul declined during the late 1950s due to competition from other guitar manufacturers. As a result, Gibson decided to discontinue the Les Paul model in 1961 and replaced it with the aforementioned SG series.
In the mid-1960s, seeking to emulate their American blues guitar heroes, British rock guitarists began to embrace the original Les Paul models. Subsequently, popular demand prompted Gibson to reintroduce the Les Paul in 1968. This reintroduction included both the "Standard" and "Custom" models, featuring the original single-cutaway design and a range of finishes.
The Gibson Les Paul Deluxe (Late 1960s-1985):
In the late 1960s, Gibson also released the Les Paul Deluxe, which had mini-humbuckers instead of full-sized humbuckers. The pickups were surplus Epiphone inventory, and were fitted into pre-carved P-90 size cavities by means of an adapter ring. Several notable guitarists used Deluxes over the years, although many opted to switch the pickups to full-size humbuckers. The Deluxe went through multiple neck and body construction changes over the years, but was eventually discontinued in 1985.
Professional (1969-1971) and Recording (1971-1979) Models:
In 1969, the Les Paul Professional was introduced. The model forewent the cosmetic embellishments of the Standard and Custom and was aimed at the studio musician. Low impedance pickups replaced standard humbuckers, and two toggle switches provided additional tonal controls. The model was not popular, however, and was discontinued after selling less than 120 units. It would be replaced by the "Recording" model.
The Les Paul Recording differed from the Professional in only minor ways, primarily the controls layout. It was, however, the model Les Paul himself preferred.
Les Paul Studio (1983-present):
The Studio followed the Recording as a model designed to appeal to those who wanted the classic Les Paul sound at a lower cost than Standard or Custom models, again primarily studio musicians. Unlike the Professional and Recording, the Studio was basically a stripped-down Standard with a slightly thinner body. Features such as body binding, neck binding, and headstock inlays were not available.
Over time, revisions were made to the Studio to improve playability and reduce weight, a complaint often lodged against the Standard and Custom. Ironically, Studio models gradually began to be offered with most of the cosmetic features the model was originally intended to eschew.
Modern Era and Variations (1980s-Present):
Since the 1980s, Gibson has continued to produce various Les Paul models, offering different finishes, pickups, and features to cater to the preferences of modern guitarists. Some notable variations include the Les Paul Classic, Les Paul Traditional, Les Paul Custom Lite, and Les Paul Custom Pro. Gibson has also collaborated with famous guitarists to create signature Les Paul models, such as the Jimmy Page Signature and the Slash Signature Les Pauls. Gibson also offers Les Paul models under their more economical Epiphone brand.
The Gibson Les Paul's timeless design, powerful tone, and notable association with legendary guitarists have made it a highly sought-after instrument, securing its place in music history as an iconic electric guitar model.
Alex Lifeson is a Canadian musician, songwriter, and producer, best known as the guitarist and founding member of the progressive rock band Rush. Born on August 27, 1953, in Fernie, British Columbia, Lifeson began playing guitar at a young age and was heavily influenced by the British rock bands of the 1960s.
Lifeson formed Rush in 1968 with drummer John Rutsey and bassist Jeff Jones. Jones was replaced by Geddy Lee on bass and vocals in 1969, and the classic lineup of Rush was born. The band quickly gained a reputation for their virtuosic musicianship and unique blend of hard rock, progressive rock, and heavy metal.
As the guitarist for Rush, Lifeson was known for his intricate and melodic guitar playing, incorporating a variety of techniques and styles. He also played a significant role in the band's songwriting, contributing to the creation of many of their most beloved tracks.
Over the course of his career, Lifeson has received numerous accolades for his contributions to music. He was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1994, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Rush in 2013. In addition to his work with Rush, Lifeson has also worked on various solo and collaborative projects, showcasing his versatility and creativity as a musician.
Despite Rush officially retiring in 2018 after the passing of drummer Neil Peart, Lifeson remains active in the music industry, continuing to create and collaborate on new projects.
The invention of the humbucking electric guitar pickup revolutionized the world of electric guitars by eliminating unwanted electrical interference and producing a rich, noise-free tone.
In the early days of electric guitars, single-coil pickups were commonly used. While these pickups were effective in converting string vibrations into electrical signals, they were also susceptible to external electromagnetic interference, commonly known as hum. This interference caused an audible hum or buzz in the signal, particularly in environments with electrical equipment or strong radio waves.
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Eddie Van Halen was a world-renowned guitarist, songwriter, and producer who was born on January 26, 1955, in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. He was best known as the co-founder and lead guitarist of the American rock band Van Halen.
Eddie Van Halen revolutionized the sound of rock guitar playing in the late 1970s and early 1980s with his innovative and virtuosic style. He was known for his dazzling finger-tapping techniques, intricate solos, and innovative use of effects pedals, the "whammy bar" and even an electric drill.
Van Halen's self-titled debut album, released in 1978, was a massive success and helped to establish the band as one of the biggest and most influential rock acts of the 1980s. The album featured hits like "Runnin' with the Devil," "Eruption," and "Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love."
Eddie Van Halen continued to push the boundaries of guitar playing throughout his career, and he remained a hugely influential figure in the world of rock music until his death on October 6, 2020, at the age of 65. He will be remembered as one of the greatest guitarists of all time and a true pioneer in his field.
While Eddie Van Halen is primarily known for his exceptional guitar playing, he was also a skilled pianist. He had a strong musical foundation and was classically trained on piano as a child. This training influenced his approach to guitar playing and contributed to his unique style.
Van Halen's piano skills can be heard in various songs throughout his career with Van Halen. The power ballad "Love Walks In" from the album "5150" (1986) prominently features his piano playing alongside the guitar work. He also played piano on the track "Dreams" on "5150", and on "When It's Love" from the album "OU812".
Although Eddie Van Halen's piano playing may not have received as much attention as his guitar work, it was an important part of his musical repertoire, demonstrating his versatility and musical prowess across multiple instruments.