Guitarists who use heavy strings are a diverse group spanning various genres, each with their unique reasons for preferring thicker gauge strings. Heavy gauge strings, typically characterized by their larger diameter and higher tension, offer specific benefits that cater to the playing styles and tonal preferences of these musicians. In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore the world of guitarists who favor heavy strings and examine the reasons behind their choices.
Blues and Blues-Rock Guitarists:
- Stevie Ray Vaughan: Known for his blistering blues solos and powerful string bends, Stevie Ray Vaughan used heavy gauge strings (typically .013-.058) to achieve his signature tone. The added string tension allowed him to produce expressive bends and a warm, saturated sound.
- Albert King: Renowned blues guitarist Albert King was famous for using heavy strings, which contributed to his massive, gritty tone. He typically played with a set of .014-.058 gauge strings.
Jazz Guitarists:
- Barney Kessel: Jazz legend Barney Kessel was an advocate of heavy gauge strings, often using .013-.056 sets. The thicker strings helped him achieve a rich, warm tone that’s characteristic of jazz guitar.
- Wes Montgomery: Wes Montgomery, one of the most influential jazz guitarists, played with a set of .012-.052 gauge strings. The heavier strings allowed him to produce his iconic, round tone and emphasize the depth and resonance of his jazz chords.
Rock and Classic Rock Guitarists:
- Jimi Hendrix: Jimi Hendrix, a pioneer of rock guitar, experimented with different string gauges throughout his career. He occasionally used heavier strings (.012-.058) to attain a fuller sound, especially in his later work.
- Jimmy Page: Led Zeppelin’s Jimmy Page, a rock guitar icon, used heavier strings (.010-.052) to achieve a solid, powerful tone that was crucial for his epic riffs and solos.
Metal and Hard Rock Guitarists:
- Tony Iommi: The godfather of heavy metal guitar, Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath, used heavier strings (.012-.054) to achieve a crushing, dark tone. The increased string tension also helped him achieve down-tuned riffs.
- Dimebag Darrell: Pantera’s Dimebag Darrell, famous for his intense and aggressive playing, used heavy gauge strings (.013-.056) to achieve a meaty, crunchy tone ideal for heavy metal and hard rock.
Country and Slide Guitarists:
- Duane Allman: Duane Allman, a slide guitar virtuoso and founding member of the Allman Brothers Band, preferred heavy strings to create his iconic slide sound. He used sets with .012-.056 gauge strings.
- Johnny Cash: The “Man in Black” Johnny Cash used heavier strings on his acoustic guitars, often with gauges like .012-.053. These strings contributed to his deep, resonant country sound.
Classical Guitarists:
- Andrés Segovia: The legendary classical guitarist Andrés Segovia was known to use heavier gauge strings to emphasize the classical guitar’s rich and nuanced tone. He typically used .029-.045 gauge strings.
Fingerstyle and Acoustic Guitarists:
- Tommy Emmanuel: Renowned fingerstyle guitarist Tommy Emmanuel uses a unique blend of string gauges, including heavier ones, to achieve a versatile and expressive sound. He favors .013-.056 gauge strings for their balanced tone.
Slide and Blues Guitarists:
- Ry Cooder: Renowned slide guitarist Ry Cooder has used heavy gauge strings, such as .013-.056, to achieve the rich, soulful tones he’s known for. Heavy strings enhance sustain and slide performance.
- Derek Trucks: As a slide guitar virtuoso, Derek Trucks uses heavy strings to achieve the expressive, singing tones he’s renowned for. He typically plays sets with .013-.056 gauge strings.
It’s important to note that the choice of heavy gauge strings is often influenced by a guitarist’s playing style, preferred genres, and tonal objectives. These guitarists have adopted heavier strings to harness the unique advantages they offer, such as extended sustain, fuller tone, and improved control during bends and slides. However, the selection of string gauge remains a highly personal decision, and what works for one guitarist may not necessarily suit another. Guitarists often experiment with different string gauges to find the right fit for their playing style and musical aspirations.
