When it comes to the captivating world of music, certain artists have an unmistakable sound that resonates with their audiences. One such artist is the legendary Lindsey Buckingham, whose unique guitar skills have enthralled fans for decades. But have you ever wondered, amidst the mesmerizing melodies and intricate chords, just what kind of guitar Lindsey Buckingham plays? This article will decode the enchanting sound of Lindsey Buckingham and uncover the secrets behind his chosen instrument. Get ready to dive deep into the rhythmic realms and uncover the mysteries behind the strings that bring Buckingham’s music to life.
What is Lindsey Buckingham famous for?
Lindsey Buckingham is a multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter, and producer best known for his work as the lead guitarist and one of the vocalists of Fleetwood Mac. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998 alongside other members of Fleetwood Mac. Throughout his career with them he wrote such classics as “Go Your Own Way”, “Tusk” and “Second Hand News”. After leaving Fleetwood Mac in 1987, he released several solo albums such as Out of the Cradle, Gift of Screws and Seeds We Sow. He continued to collaborate with other artists on projects such as The Dance with Stevie Nicks and also undertook a successful acoustic tour in 2009. In 2018, he was honored with the Les Paul Award in recognition of his contribution to the music industry. Buckingham remains an influential figure in contemporary rock and folk music.
In addition to his success as a solo artist and member of Fleetwood Mac, Lindsey Buckingham is widely acclaimed for his fingerstyle guitar playing style that often makes use of alternate tunings. His style has been described as “jangly,” and he often mixes his abilities as a singer-songwriter with his guitar playing. He is also credited with helping to shape the sound of Fleetwood Mac, incorporating elements of rock and roll, blues, country and folk music into their repertoire. His influence on popular music has been widely recognized over the years.
Aside from his musical achievements, Lindsey Buckingham is also known for his philanthropy. He has donated proceeds from his solo tours to various charities and organizations devoted to helping those in need. In 2010, he founded the Lindsey Buckingham Music Education Fund which advocates for music education and provides resources to teachers who are passionate about teaching music in their classrooms. He is an advocate of music education and firmly believes that learning music can be beneficial to children and young adults. He has also used his platform to support various causes, including raising awareness for mental health and gender equality.
It’s also worth noting that Lindsey Buckingham has been involved in activism throughout his career, particularly with regards to environmentalism. He was one of the first musicians to speak out against climate change and support clean energy initiatives. He has publicly advocated for renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power in order to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. In addition, he has used his platform to raise awareness for other causes as well, including animal rights and civil rights [1].
Buckingham’s Rig: A Myriad of Guitars for a Myriad of Songs
Rick Turner Model 1: The First Buckingham Signature Guitar
Rick Turner was the pioneering luthier responsible for the first Buckingham guitar, the Model 1. It featured a solid mahogany body, a glued-in neck joint with a three-piece maple neck, and an ebony fretboard. The electronics package was state of the art at the time of its release in early 1973, featuring two humbucker pickups (the bridge pickup was a Seth Lover-designed “Patent Applied For” unit) and two volume controls. It was the first Buckingham guitar, but not the last.
Rick Turner Model 2: Slightly Different, Yet Still Spectacular
The Rick Turner Model 2 guitar was released in late 1974 as an upgrade to the original Model 1. The main difference between the two was the pickups. The Model 2 featured a pair of Seth Lover-designed PAF humbuckers instead of the original single-coil “Patent Applied For” pickups. This allowed for a wider range of tones and fuller sound. The other differences included a one-piece mahogany body, an ebony fretboard, and three control knobs (for volume, tone, and treble).
Taylor 814CE: With or Without a Soundhole?
The Taylor 814CE was the first Buckingham guitar to feature a cutaway. It also had an innovative soundhole design, which allowed for a more natural resonance and sustain of notes. The electronics package included two humbucker pickups, three control knobs (volume, tone, and treble), and a built-in preamp. This enabled players to use different tones and soundscapes. The Taylor 814CE was the first Buckingham guitar to be offered with or without a soundhole, giving players more choice in terms of tone and looks.
Renaissance Steel String: Another Holeless Axe from Rick Turner
The Renaissance Steel String guitar was the second holeless Buckingham model designed by Rick Turner. It featured a solid Sitka spruce top, rosewood back and sides, a one-piece mahogany neck with an ebony fingerboard, two humbucker pickups, three control knobs (volume, tone, and treble), and a built-in preamp. The guitar had a bright, articulate sound with plenty of sustain and was well-suited for fingerpicking.
Buckingham X3: A Modern Take on the Classic Design
The Buckingham X3 is the latest addition to the line of Buckingham guitars. It features a solid swamp ash body, an ebony fretboard, two humbucker pickups (a Vintage Noiseless Humbucker in the neck and a DiMarzio Virtual Vintage in the bridge), three control knobs (volume, tone, and treble/bass), and a built-in preamp. The X3 also has an innovative string-through design to increase sustain. The unique combination of modern electronics with classic features makes this guitar ideal for a variety of musical styles and applications.
Gibson Chet Atkins CE: Buckingham’s Nylon Gem
The Gibson Chet Atkins CE was the first Buckingham guitar to feature a nylon string setup. It was developed in collaboration with legendary guitarist/producer Chet Atkins. This model has a solid spruce top, rosewood back and sides, a mahogany neck with an ebony fingerboard, two humbucker pickups (a “Chet Atkins” pickup in the neck and a “Patent Applied For”-style humbucker in the bridge), three control knobs (volume, tone, and treble/bass), and a built-in preamp. This guitar has a bright, articulate sound with plenty of sustain, making it ideal for fingerpicking styles [2].
List of Lindsey Buckingham Guitars
Fender American Telecaster
The Fender American Telecaster, with its iconic design and impeccable craftsmanship, holds a special place in Lindsey Buckingham’s heart. Renowned for his mesmerizing live performances and captivating recordings, Lindsey has often been spotted wielding this guitar, effortlessly weaving his magic on stage. Crafted with precision, this masterpiece features a resonant alder body and a smooth maple neck, providing a solid foundation for the soulful sound it produces. The single-coil pickups deliver that classic Telecaster twang, while the ashtray bridge and vintage-style tremolo system add a touch of nostalgia. With its exceptional tone and unparalleled playability, the Fender American Telecaster is a true gem that resonates with the spirit of rock and blues.
Gibson Les Paul Standard
One of Lindsey Buckingham’s all-time favorites is the Gibson Les Paul Standard. This iconic guitar is not only known for its rich, warm tone but also the exceptional craftsmanship that has made it a staple in the world of music. With its mahogany body, maple top, and rosewood fretboard, the guitar offers a perfect blend of aesthetics and functionality. Equipped with two humbucking pickups and a Tune-o-Matic bridge, it delivers that unmistakable crunchy rock sound that guitarists crave. Over the years, this legendary instrument has found its way into the hands of numerous iconic guitarists, solidifying its status as a timeless classic. It’s no wonder that the Gibson Les Paul Standard continues to be a top choice among rock musicians who value both style and performance.
Fender American Stratocaster
The Fender American Stratocaster is another guitar that Lindsey Buckingham counts among his favorites. This classic instrument features a lightweight alder body and a classic maple neck, both of which contribute to its signature tone. The three single-coil pickups provide that unmistakable twang, while the tremolo bridge adds an extra sparkle to the sound. With these features, the Fender American Stratocaster has become a go-to instrument for countless guitarists, delivering a unique combination of vintage style and modern flair. From its crisp sound to its classic look, it’s no wonder that this iconic electric guitar continues to be the favorite of many players.
Ibanez Artist AR300
The Ibanez Artist AR300 is a versatile guitar that Lindsey Buckingham often uses for studio work. This classic instrument features a sleek mahogany body and neck, with an ebony fretboard adding to its distinct look. Powered by two humbuckers, the AR300 provides a wide range of tones that can be further shaped with the help of its three-way toggle switch and tone controls. With its comfortable shape and neck joint, this guitar is a joy to play. Whether you are looking for classic rock tones or something more modern, the Ibanez AR300 is a great choice that will help you create your own unique sound.
Gretsch Brian Setzer Signature Model
The Gretsch Brian Setzer Signature Model is another of Lindsey Buckingham’s favorite guitars. It features a maple body, gold hardware, two humbucking pickups and a Bigsby tremolo system. This guitar offers a great combination of vintage style and modern performance, with its classic design and powerful pickups giving you all the tools needed for a range of styles from rockabilly to hard rock. With its bright tones and distinctive look, the Gretsch Brian Setzer Signature Model is sure to make an impression in any setting, making it an ideal choice for professional musicians who expect the best from their instruments.
Taylor 814ce
The Taylor 814ce is an acoustic guitar that Lindsey Buckingham has often been spotted playing. This beautiful instrument features a solid Sitka spruce top, with layered rosewood back and sides lending it a classic look and feel. With its grand auditorium body shape and advanced bracing system, the 814ce delivers a warm, balanced tone that is both powerful and articulate. Whether you are strumming chords or picking out intricate melodies, this guitar delivers the subtleties of your playing with exquisite clarity. With its combination of looks and tone, the Taylor 814ce is a truly spectacular instrument that will inspire every time you pick it up.
Rick Turner Model 1-C-LB
The Rick Turner Model 1-C-LB is a custom guitar that was designed in collaboration with Lindsey Buckingham. This unique instrument features a highly figured maple top and mahogany back, giving it a classic look with modern accents. Equipped with two humbucking pickups, this guitar delivers plenty of punch and clarity to cut through any mix. Its 5-way switching system further enhances its versatility, allowing you to access all kinds of tonal possibilities. With its eye-catching looks and exceptional playability, the Rick Turner Model 1-C-LB is sure to be a favorite among guitarists who value both style and performance [3].
Lindsey Buckingham Guitar Affordable Alternatives
Fender Player Telecaster
The Fender Player Telecaster is a fantastic affordable option for guitar enthusiasts seeking a timeless and iconic look and feel. With its distinctive double-cutaway body shape, two single-coil pickups, and versatile three-way switching system, this legendary guitar has been an integral part of rock music history since its debut in 1951. The Player edition boasts modern updates including a 22-fret fingerboard, a Greasebucket tone circuit for fine-tuned control, and a 6-saddle string-through bridge for enhanced sustain and resonance. With its characteristic bright twangy sound, the Player Telecaster is an absolute gem that excels in both rock and country music genres, making it a must-have for any guitarist seeking versatile tones and classic style.
Yamaha Pacifica 112V
The Yamaha Pacifica 112V is an exceptional budget-friendly option for guitar enthusiasts. Crafted with precision, this guitar showcases an ergonomic double-cutaway alder body and a maple neck with 22 frets, providing ample space for creative exploration on the fretboard. With its two single coil pickups and 5-way pickup selector switch, the Pacifica offers a versatile range of tonal possibilities, enabling musicians to effortlessly find their desired sound. Additionally, the inclusion of a tremolo bridge adds a touch of vibrato to both individual notes and chords, enhancing the expressiveness and dynamics of the instrument. Whether you’re into rock, blues, or jazz, the Pacifica’s versatility makes it a perfect choice for a wide range of musical styles.
Epiphone Les Paul Standard Plus Top Pro
The Epiphone Les Paul Standard Plus Top Pro is a great affordable alternative to the classic Gibson Les Paul. With its mahogany body, maple top, and set-neck construction, it offers the same look and feels as its more expensive counterpart. It also features two humbucker pickups with a three-way selector switch and two volume and two tone knobs, allowing for a wide variety of tonal options. The Epiphone Les Paul Standard Plus Top Pro is perfect for rock, blues, jazz, and even metal styles.
Gretsch G2622 Streamliner Center Block with Bigsby
The Gretsch G2622 Streamliner Center Block with Bigsby is a fantastic and highly affordable alternative to the classic Gretsch sound. With its striking single-cutaway body design and maple neck boasting 22 frets, this guitar offers both style and playability. Equipped with two humbucker pickups and a versatile three-way switching system, the G2622 provides a wide range of tonal options to suit any musical style. The addition of a Bigsby tremolo bridge further expands its sonic capabilities, allowing players to effortlessly add smooth vibrato and expressive effects to their notes and chords. From the raw power of rock to the soulful sounds of blues, the G2622 excels in a variety of genres including jazz and even country. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, this guitar is sure to inspire and bring your music to life.
Fender Player Stratocaster
The Fender Player Stratocaster is an exceptional and highly affordable option for guitarists who seek to acquire that iconic look and feel. Crafted with precision, it boasts a sleek double-cutaway body shape, complemented by three powerful single-coil pickups and a versatile five-way switching system, enabling players to effortlessly explore a wide range of captivating tones. Moreover, the Player Stratocaster features a smooth 22-fret fingerboard and incorporates modern enhancements such as a Greasebucket tone circuit and a six-saddle string-through bridge, ensuring optimal playability and enhanced tonal flexibility. With its distinctive bright and twangy sound, this remarkable instrument effortlessly caters to both the realms of rock and country styles, making it an absolute delight for aspiring musicians and seasoned players alike.
Taylor 114ce
The Taylor 114ce is an exceptional budget option for guitar enthusiasts in search of a high-quality, great-sounding acoustic guitar. This dreadnought-style instrument boasts a meticulously crafted design, featuring a solid Sitka spruce top that delivers a rich and resonant tone, complemented by the laminated sapele back and sides for enhanced projection and durability. The guitar’s mahogany neck with an ebony fingerboard ensures smooth playability and comfortable fretting, while the inclusion of Taylor’s ES2 pickup system allows for seamless amplification and versatile performance options. With its versatility spanning across various musical genres, from folk to rock and jazz, the Taylor 114ce is a true gem that offers exceptional value for both aspiring and seasoned musicians alike.
Taylor GS Mini-e
The Taylor GS Mini-e is a fantastic budget-friendly option for musicians in search of an acoustic guitar with a compact body. This smaller-sized guitar showcases a solid spruce top, which contributes to its impressive tonal quality, while the layered Sapele back and sides provide durability and resonance. With its mahogany neck and ebony fingerboard, this guitar offers a smooth and comfortable playing experience. Additionally, the GS Mini-e is equipped with Taylor’s ES2 pickup system, allowing for seamless amplification and performance versatility. Whether you’re into folk, rock, or even jazz, this versatile instrument is sure to satisfy your musical needs and inspire your creativity.
How to learn electric guitar?
Learning electric guitar can be a fun and rewarding experience. However, it is important to understand the fundamentals of playing an electric guitar before attempting more advanced techniques.
Once you understand the basics of electric guitar anatomy, it’s time to learn the tuning process and how chords are formed. There are many online resources available to help with this step, including websites dedicated to teaching electric guitar lessons and books focusing on music theory for beginners.
Next, you should familiarize yourself with different techniques used when playing the electric guitar. This includes learning how to use a pick, strum chords, and fingerpick notes. Additionally, you should become familiar with various techniques such as hammer-ons, pull-offs, slide up and down the strings, and vibrato.
Lastly, it’s important to practice frequently to become comfortable with the instrument. You can set aside time each day to practice playing either scales or songs. As you progress, you will be able to take on more challenging pieces of music. Additionally, there are many online resources available that can help with improving your skills and bettering your technique.
If you commit yourself to learning how to play the electric guitar and follow these steps, then you will be well on your way to becoming a great musician. With practice and dedication, you can create beautiful music with an electric guitar.
FAQ
What kind of guitar does Lindsey Buckingham have?
Lindsey Buckingham plays a Fender Telecaster. He has had the same guitar since joining Fleetwood Mac in 1975 and it is known for its distinctive sound. The guitar is heavily modified with two humbuckers and has been custom-painted by Buckingham himself. This unique combination of features makes his sound instantly recognizable on stage or in the studio.
What was Lindsey Buckingham’s favorite guitar?
Lindsey Buckingham’s favorite guitar was a Martin D-45. He purchased the instrument in 1975 and used it extensively during his time with Fleetwood Mac, but also on his own solo albums. The guitar had an incredible tone and was capable of producing both crystal clear notes and distorted tones when desired. When he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame in 1998, he performed with the Martin D-45.
What type of pickups does Lindsey Buckingham use?
Lindsey Buckingham uses both single-coil and humbucker pickups in his guitars. His Telecaster has two humbuckers, while his acoustic guitars have a combination of single-coil and humbucking pickups. He also makes use of the Fishman Matrix Infinity pickup system in his acoustic guitars, which allows him to blend both acoustic and electric sounds in a single instrument.
What effects does Lindsey Buckingham use?
Lindsey Buckingham is known for using a variety of different effects when performing or recording. He typically uses a combination of delay, reverb and chorus to create an atmospheric soundscape around his guitar playing. He also makes use of various other effects such as wah-wah, phaser and envelope filters to further shape the sound of his guitars. In addition to these effects, he often uses an Echoplex tape delay unit for its distinct sound textures.
Does Lindsey Buckingham play any other instruments?
Yes, in addition to the guitar, Lindsey Buckingham is an accomplished pianist and bass player. He has played both instruments extensively on his solo albums as well as with Fleetwood Mac. His piano playing is often overlooked but it provides a great accompaniment to his guitar playing and songwriting. In addition to these two instruments, he is also very proficient at drums and percussion. He has been known to play percussion while playing guitar in concert.
What kind of guitar does Lindsey Buckingham play on Big Love?
On the Fleetwood Mac song “Big Love,” Lindsey Buckingham plays a Gibson ES-335. The iconic semi-hollowbody guitar produces a unique, warm tone that has become synonymous with Buckingham’s style of playing. The instrument can be heard prominently throughout the song and its distinctive sound lends an unmistakable character to the entire track.
What kind of amps does Lindsey Buckingham use?
Lindsey Buckingham typically uses Fender and Marshall amplifiers for both live performances and in the studio. He has used a variety of different models throughout his career, but he is most closely associated with the Fender Twin Reverb. The amp produces a classic sound that compliments his guitar playing perfectly. He also makes use of other amps such as the Fender Deluxe Reverb and Marshall JCM800. The Marshall amps are often used for a more distorted sound in his solo albums.
What kind of strings does Lindsey Buckingham use?
Lindsey Buckingham uses Ernie Ball Slinky guitar strings on both his electric and acoustic guitars. He has been using them since he first joined Fleetwood Mac in 1975 and they continue to be his preferred choice for many of his guitars. The strings provide a bright sound that perfectly complements his playing style and allow him to create the signature tones heard on countless records throughout the years.
Are there any tips for getting a Lindsey Buckingham-style guitar sound?
Yes, one of the best ways to get a Lindsey Buckingham-style guitar sound is to use a combination of single-coil and humbucker pickups. This allows for both the clarity of single coils and the beefier, distorted sound of humbuckers. Additionally, making use of effects such as delay, reverb and chorus can help to create an atmospheric yet distinct tone that is associated with Buckingham’s style. Finally, using Ernie Ball Slinky strings will help to capture the bright, punchy sound that has been a hallmark of Buckingham’s playing for decades.
What other artists does Lindsey Buckingham collaborate with?
Lindsey Buckingham is known for collaborating with many other artists over the years. He has worked on projects with a wide range of musicians including Sheryl Crow, Michael McDonald, Stevie Nicks, Don Henley and Rick Springfield. He has also produced albums for a number of other artists including John Hiatt, Gilby Clarke and The Corrs. Buckingham’s unique guitar playing is instantly recognizable on all of these records and demonstrates his versatility as a producer as well as a musician.
What kind of music does Lindsey Buckingham play?
Lindsey Buckingham is known for playing a variety of different styles, but he is most closely associated with the classic rock sound of Fleetwood Mac. His own solo material typically incorporates elements of folk, pop and country as well as rock. He often uses acoustic instruments to create intricate and beautiful arrangements that are both modern and timeless.
What are some of Lindsey Buckingham’s best songs?
Some of Lindsey Buckingham’s most popular and beloved songs include “Go Your Own Way,” “Tusk,” “Big Love,” and “Holiday Road.” His solo material is also highly regarded, with standout tracks such as “Trouble,””I Must Go” and the title track from his 1992 album “Out Of The Cradle”. These songs all demonstrate his signature approach to guitar playing, songwriting and production, making them some of the most essential pieces in Buckingham’s musical catalog.
Useful Video: Fleetwood’s Mac Lindsey Buckingham Guitar Lesson (Part 1)
Conclusion Paragraph
Lindsey Buckingham is famous for his songwriting and guitar-playing skills. He has released several solo albums, as well as being a member of Fleetwood Mac since the 1970s. Throughout his career, Buckingham has been recognized for his unique musical style, which combines elements from different genres including folk, rock, and jazz. He uses different models of guitars such as Stratocasters and Les Pauls to create his signature sound. His contributions to Fleetwood Mac have helped the band maintain their status as one of the most successful bands in history. Buckingham’s influence on music can still be heard today, making him an important figure for music fans everywhere.
References:
- https://www.nytimes.com/2021/09/08/arts/music/lindsey-buckingham.html
- https://www.allstringed.com/what-kind-of-guitar-does-lindsey-buckingham-play/
- https://www.guitarlobby.com/lindsey-buckingham-guitars-and-gear/