Ah, the glorious sound of a guitar! From the early days of rock ‘n roll to the present, this versatile instrument has played a key role in shaping the music we love. But have you ever wondered how the guitar evolved to accommodate our insatiable thirst for more strings? Join us as we embark on a journey through time to unravel the fascinating history of 7 string guitars.
The Birth of Innovation
Back in the late 18th century, when people were still figuring out how to keep powdered wigs intact, an audacious guitar maker had a bold idea. He dared to add a seventh string to the traditional six-string guitar, catapulting us into the realm of unknown sonic possibilities. Unfortunately, this endeavor didn’t gain immediate popularity, as guitarists were too busy perfecting their mustache twirling skills.
The Classical Encounter
Fast forward to the early 19th century, when the classical music scene was all the rage. Enter Italian composer and guitarist, Mauro Giuliani. This maestro incorporated the 7 string guitar into his compositions, primarily to enhance the bass lines. So, not only could he whip up a mean pasta plate, but he could also produce intricate musical harmonies with a stringed beast.
Jazzin’ It Up
Jazz musicians, always the rebels, couldn’t be left out of the 7-string fun. In the 1930s, George Van Eps, a jazz guitarist extraordinaire, popularized the use of a 7-string guitar in jazz music. This additional string allowed for extended range chords and bass lines, giving jazz guitarists the freedom to unleash their musical genius without having to say a single word.
The Age of Metal
The 7-string guitar found a new home in the realm of heavy metal in the 1990s. Bands like Korn and Dream Theater embraced this beastly instrument, creating ear-melting, face-melting riffs that made listeners question their sanity. These guitars became a symbol of power, capable of bringing down entire stadiums with the mere pluck of a string.
Modern-Day Innovation
In recent years, the 7-string guitar has continued to evolve, reaching new levels of complexity. Musicians have explored different tunings, added additional strings, and even experimented with multi-scale designs. With these innovations, guitarists can now explore realms of sonic possibilities that were once unfathomable. Who knows what the future holds for the 7-string guitar? Perhaps a built-in coffee machine?
Deals on History Of 7 String Guitars
TARIO 7 String Electric Guitar, Maple Neck, Poplar Body with Burl Top
The TARIO 7 String Electric Guitar is a high-quality instrument with a bolt-on maple neck and a poplar wood body. It features a unique burl poplar top body for added visual appeal. This guitar is designed for players who want a versatile and stylish instrument that delivers excellent sound.
Jackson JS Series Dinky 7-String Electric Guitar Transparent Black Burst
The Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top 7-String Electric Guitar is a high-quality instrument designed for experienced players. It features a poplar body with a transparent black burst finish, a bolt-on maple neck, and an amaranth fingerboard. With its 7-string configuration, this guitar offers extended range and versatility for a variety of musical styles.
GHS BOOMERS 7 Electric Guitar Strings
The GHS Strings BOOMERS 7 Electric Guitar Strings GB7H are a set of high-quality strings designed for electric guitars. These strings are specifically designed to provide a balanced and powerful tone, making them ideal for musicians looking to achieve a rich and dynamic sound.
7-String Guitar Chord Book
The 7String Guitar Chord Book is a comprehensive guide for guitarists looking to expand their playing skills on a seven-string guitar. With a wide range of chord shapes and variations included, this book is a valuable resource for both beginner and advanced players.
"History of Chicago: Now More Than Ever"
"Now More Than Ever The History of Chicago is a comprehensive documentation of the legendary band's journey through the music industry. From their humble beginnings to their rise to fame, this book tells the captivating story of Chicago's enduring legacy."
From its humble origins as a daring experiment to its current status as a beloved instrument in multiple genres, the 7-string guitar has undoubtedly left its mark on the music world. It has allowed musicians to push boundaries, break traditions, and venture into uncharted territories of sound. So, the next time you hear the deep rumble of a 7-string guitar, take a moment to appreciate the history and innovation that made it all possible. Rock on, my fellow string enthusiasts!