Electric guitars are a popular choice for musicians of all levels, and Axl Rose is no exception. The Guns N’ Roses frontman has played a variety of electric guitars over the years, but his most famous is probably the Gibson Les Paul Standard.
Editor’s Notes:Electric guitars are an important part of Axl Rose’s sound. His aggressive playing style and use of distortion pedals create a unique and instantly recognizable sound.
To help you learn more about Axl Rose’s electric guitars, we’ve put together this guide. We’ll discuss the different models he’s played over the years, as well as his playing style and sound.
Key Differences
| Model | Year | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Gibson Les Paul Standard | 1959 | Mahogany body, maple top, humbucking pickups |
| Gibson ES-335 | 1958 | Semi-hollow body, humbucking pickups |
| Fender Stratocaster | 1954 | Alder body, maple neck, single-coil pickups |
Main Article Topics
- Axl Rose’s electric guitars
- His playing style
- His sound
1. Gibson Les Paul Standard
The Gibson Les Paul Standard is Axl Rose’s most famous guitar, and it has played a significant role in shaping his sound. The Les Paul is known for its warm, thick tone, which is perfect for Axl’s aggressive playing style and use of distortion pedals. The guitar’s mahogany body and maple top give it a rich, resonant sound, while its humbucking pickups provide a powerful, distorted tone.Axl has used the Les Paul on some of Guns N’ Roses’ most iconic songs, including “Welcome to the Jungle,” “Sweet Child O’ Mine,” and “November Rain.” The guitar’s warm, thick tone is perfectly suited for these songs, and it helps to create their signature sound.The Les Paul is not the only guitar that Axl has used over the years, but it is certainly the most important. The guitar’s warm, thick tone is essential to Axl’s sound, and it has helped to make him one of the most recognizable guitarists in rock history.
Key Insights
- The Gibson Les Paul Standard is Axl Rose’s most famous guitar.
- The guitar is known for its warm, thick tone, which is perfect for Axl’s aggressive playing style and use of distortion pedals.
- The Les Paul has played a significant role in shaping Axl’s sound, and it has been used on some of Guns N’ Roses’ most iconic songs.
2. Gibson ES-335
The Gibson ES-335 is a semi-hollow body guitar that has been used by Axl Rose on several recordings and live performances. It is a versatile guitar with a wide range of tones, from clean to distorted. The ES-335 is known for its brighter, more articulate sound than the Les Paul, which makes it a good choice for a variety of musical styles.
- Facet 1: Construction
The ES-335 has a semi-hollow body, which means that it has a hollow chamber inside the body of the guitar. This gives the guitar a lighter weight and a more resonant sound than a solid body guitar. The ES-335 also has a maple top, which gives it a brighter sound than a mahogany top.
- Facet 2: Pickups
The ES-335 is equipped with two humbucking pickups, which give it a powerful, distorted sound. The pickups are wired in a variety of ways, which gives the guitar a wide range of tones. Axl Rose often uses the ES-335 with the pickups in the “out of phase” position, which gives the guitar a unique, jangly sound.
- Facet 3: Playing Style
Axl Rose uses the ES-335 for a variety of playing styles, from clean rhythm playing to heavy distorted solos. The guitar’s versatility makes it a good choice for a variety of musical genres.
- Facet 4: Sound
The ES-335 has a bright, articulate sound that is perfect for Axl Rose’s aggressive playing style. The guitar’s sound is also very versatile, making it a good choice for a variety of musical genres.
The Gibson ES-335 is a versatile guitar that has been used by Axl Rose on a variety of recordings and live performances. The guitar’s bright, articulate sound and wide range of tones make it a good choice for a variety of musical styles.
3. Fender Stratocaster
The Fender Stratocaster is a versatile guitar that has been used by Axl Rose on a variety of recordings and live performances. It is a popular choice for guitarists of all levels, due to its wide range of tones and its comfortable playing style. The Stratocaster is known for its bright, twangy sound, which is perfect for clean rhythm playing and country music. However, it can also be used to create heavier, distorted tones, making it a good choice for rock and blues music.
- Facet 1: Construction
The Stratocaster has a solid body made of alder or ash, which gives it a bright, resonant sound. The guitar’s maple neck and rosewood fingerboard provide a comfortable playing surface, and the guitar’s three single-coil pickups give it a wide range of tones.
- Facet 2: Pickups
The Stratocaster’s three single-coil pickups are wired in a variety of ways, which gives the guitar a wide range of tones. The pickups can be used individually or in combination, and the guitar’s five-way selector switch allows the player to quickly switch between different pickup combinations.
- Facet 3: Playing Style
The Stratocaster is a versatile guitar that can be used for a variety of playing styles. It is a popular choice for rhythm playing, lead playing, and soloing. The guitar’s comfortable playing style makes it a good choice for guitarists of all levels.
- Facet 4: Sound
The Stratocaster has a bright, twangy sound that is perfect for clean rhythm playing and country music. However, it can also be used to create heavier, distorted tones, making it a good choice for rock and blues music. The guitar’s wide range of tones makes it a versatile choice for a variety of musical styles.
The Fender Stratocaster is a versatile guitar that has been used by Axl Rose on a variety of recordings and live performances. The guitar’s bright, twangy sound and wide range of tones make it a good choice for a variety of musical styles.
4. Jackson RR
The Jackson RR is a metal-oriented guitar that has been used by Axl Rose on several recordings and live performances. It is known for its distinctive V-shaped body, which gives it a unique look and sound. The RR is a versatile guitar that can be used for a variety of playing styles, from heavy metal to hard rock.
- Facet 1: Construction
The RR has a solid body made of alder or mahogany, which gives it a strong and resonant sound. The guitar’s maple neck and rosewood fingerboard provide a comfortable playing surface, and the guitar’s two humbucking pickups give it a powerful, distorted sound.
- Facet 2: Pickups
The RR’s two humbucking pickups are wired in a variety of ways, which gives the guitar a wide range of tones. The pickups can be used individually or in combination, and the guitar’s five-way selector switch allows the player to quickly switch between different pickup combinations.
- Facet 3: Playing Style
The RR is a versatile guitar that can be used for a variety of playing styles. It is a popular choice for metal and hard rock music, but it can also be used for other genres, such as blues and rock. The guitar’s comfortable playing style makes it a good choice for guitarists of all levels.
- Facet 4: Sound
The RR has a powerful, distorted sound that is perfect for metal and hard rock music. The guitar’s humbucking pickups provide a thick, rich sound that is perfect for heavy riffs and solos. The RR also has a bright, articulate sound that is perfect for clean playing.
The Jackson RR is a versatile guitar that has been used by Axl Rose on several recordings and live performances. The guitar’s distinctive V-shaped body, powerful sound, and comfortable playing style make it a good choice for a variety of musical styles.
5. B.C. Rich Mockingbird
The B.C. Rich Mockingbird is another metal-oriented guitar that Axl Rose has used on several recordings and live performances. It is known for its unique, angular body, which gives it a distinctive look and sound. The Mockingbird is a versatile guitar that can be used for a variety of playing styles, from heavy metal to hard rock.
The Mockingbird was first introduced in 1981, and it quickly became a popular choice for metal guitarists. The guitar’s unique body shape and aggressive sound made it a perfect fit for the heavy metal genre. Axl Rose began using the Mockingbird in the late 1980s, and he has continued to use it on and off throughout his career.
The Mockingbird is a versatile guitar that can be used for a variety of playing styles. It is a popular choice for metal and hard rock music, but it can also be used for other genres, such as blues and rock. The guitar’s comfortable playing style makes it a good choice for guitarists of all levels.
The B.C. Rich Mockingbird is a unique and versatile guitar that has been used by Axl Rose on several recordings and live performances. The guitar’s distinctive body shape and aggressive sound make it a perfect fit for the heavy metal genre.
Key Insights
- The B.C. Rich Mockingbird is a metal-oriented guitar with a unique, angular body.
- The guitar is known for its aggressive sound and is a popular choice for metal guitarists.
- Axl Rose has used the Mockingbird on several recordings and live performances.
Table: B.C. Rich Mockingbird vs. Gibson Les Paul Standard
| Feature | B.C. Rich Mockingbird | Gibson Les Paul Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Body shape | Angular | Single-cut |
| Body material | Alder or mahogany | Mahogany |
| Neck material | Maple | Mahogany |
| Fingerboard material | Rosewood | Rosewood |
| Pickups | Two humbuckers | Two humbuckers |
| Sound | Aggressive | Warm and thick |
6. Gretsch White Falcon
The Gretsch White Falcon is a hollow body guitar with a distinctive “sparkle” finish. It is a popular choice for rock and roll guitarists, and has been used by many famous musicians, including Axl Rose of Guns N’ Roses. The White Falcon is known for its bright, twangy sound, which is perfect for rock and roll. The guitar’s hollow body also gives it a unique resonance that is perfect for creating sustain.
Axl Rose has used the White Falcon on several recordings and live performances. The guitar’s bright, twangy sound is a perfect fit for Guns N’ Roses’ hard rock sound. The White Falcon is also a visually striking guitar, and its distinctive “sparkle” finish is sure to turn heads on stage.
The Gretsch White Falcon is a high-quality guitar that is perfect for rock and roll guitarists. The guitar’s bright, twangy sound and unique resonance make it a popular choice for many musicians. The White Falcon is also a visually striking guitar, and its distinctive “sparkle” finish is sure to turn heads on stage.
Table: Gretsch White Falcon vs. Gibson Les Paul Standard
| Feature | Gretsch White Falcon | Gibson Les Paul Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Body type | Hollow body | Solid body |
| Body material | Laminated maple | Mahogany |
| Neck material | Maple | Mahogany |
| Fingerboard material | Ebony | Rosewood |
| Pickups | Two humbuckers | Two humbuckers |
| Sound | Bright and twangy | Warm and thick |
7. Gibson J-45
The Gibson J-45 is an acoustic guitar that Axl Rose has used on several recordings, including the acoustic version of “Patience” and the intro to “November Rain.” It is a popular choice for acoustic guitarists due to its warm, mellow sound and its versatility. The J-45 can be used for a variety of genres, from folk to rock to country.
- Facet 1: Construction
The J-45 has a dreadnought body shape, which gives it a large, resonant sound. The guitar’s top is made of solid spruce, which gives it a bright, clear sound. The back and sides are made of mahogany, which gives the guitar a warm, mellow sound. The neck is made of mahogany and has a rosewood fingerboard.
- Facet 2: Sound
The J-45 is known for its warm, mellow sound. The guitar’s large body and solid spruce top give it a rich, resonant sound that is perfect for strumming chords and fingerpicking. The mahogany back and sides add warmth and depth to the guitar’s sound.
- Facet 3: Playability
The J-45 is a comfortable guitar to play. The guitar’s dreadnought body shape and cutaway design make it easy to reach the higher frets. The guitar’s neck is also relatively thin and easy to play.
- Facet 4: Versatility
The J-45 is a versatile guitar that can be use
d for a variety of genres. The guitar’s warm, mellow sound is perfect for folk and country music. However, the guitar can also be used for rock and blues music.
The Gibson J-45 is a high-quality acoustic guitar that is perfect for a variety of genres. The guitar’s warm, mellow sound and versatility make it a popular choice for acoustic guitarists.
8. Epiphone Les Paul Standard
The Epiphone Les Paul Standard is a more affordable version of the Gibson Les Paul Standard, one of Axl Rose’s most famous guitars. It is a popular choice for guitarists who want the sound and feel of a Les Paul Standard without the high price tag.
- Construction
The Epiphone Les Paul Standard is made with a mahogany body and a maple top, just like the Gibson Les Paul Standard. However, the Epiphone Les Paul Standard has a few key differences in construction that make it more affordable. For example, the Epiphone Les Paul Standard has a bolt-on neck instead of a set neck, and it uses less expensive hardware.
- Sound
The Epiphone Les Paul Standard sounds very similar to the Gibson Les Paul Standard. It has a warm, rich tone that is perfect for rock and blues music. However, the Epiphone Les Paul Standard does not have the same level of sustain as the Gibson Les Paul Standard.
- Playability
The Epiphone Les Paul Standard is a comfortable guitar to play. The neck is thin and easy to reach, and the frets are well-spaced. However, the Epiphone Les Paul Standard is slightly heavier than the Gibson Les Paul Standard, which can make it more difficult to play for long periods of time.
- Value
The Epiphone Les Paul Standard is a great value for the price. It offers the sound and feel of a Gibson Les Paul Standard at a fraction of the cost. However, it is important to note that the Epiphone Les Paul Standard is not a perfect replica of the Gibson Les Paul Standard. It has a few key differences in construction, sound, and playability.
Overall, the Epiphone Les Paul Standard is a great choice for guitarists who want the sound and feel of a Les Paul Standard without the high price tag. It is a well-made guitar that offers a great value for the price.
9. Fender Telecaster
The Fender Telecaster is a classic electric guitar that has been used by many famous musicians, including Axl Rose of Guns N’ Roses. It is known for its twangy, bright sound, which is perfect for country, rock, and blues music. The Telecaster is a versatile guitar that can be used for a variety of playing styles, from clean rhythm playing to heavy lead guitar.
- Body and Construction
The Telecaster has a solid body made of ash or alder, which gives it a bright, resonant sound. The guitar’s maple neck and rosewood fingerboard provide a comfortable playing surface, and the guitar’s single-coil pickups give it a twangy, bright sound.
- Pickups and Electronics
The Telecaster has two single-coil pickups, which are wired in a variety of ways to give the guitar a wide range of tones. The pickups can be used individually or in combination, and the guitar’s three-way selector switch allows the player to quickly switch between different pickup combinations.
- Playing Style
The Telecaster is a versatile guitar that can be used for a variety of playing styles. It is a popular choice for country, rock, and blues music, but it can also be used for other genres, such as jazz and pop.
- Sound
The Telecaster has a twangy, bright sound that is perfect for country, rock, and blues music. The guitar’s single-coil pickups give it a bright, clear sound that is perfect for cutting through a mix. The Telecaster is also a versatile guitar that can be used for a variety of playing styles, from clean rhythm playing to heavy lead guitar.
The Fender Telecaster is a classic electric guitar that has been used by many famous musicians, including Axl Rose of Guns N’ Roses. It is known for its twangy, bright sound, which is perfect for country, rock, and blues music. The Telecaster is a versatile guitar that can be used for a variety of playing styles, from clean rhythm playing to heavy lead guitar.
10. PRS McCarty
Axl Rose has used a variety of guitars over the years, but one of his most recent favorites is the PRS McCarty. The McCarty is a modern guitar with a versatile sound that can handle both clean and distorted tones, making it a great choice for Axl’s aggressive playing style.
- Construction
The McCarty is made with a mahogany body and a maple top, which gives it a warm, resonant sound. The neck is made of mahogany and has a rosewood fingerboard. The guitar’s hardware is all gold-plated, which gives it a luxurious look and feel.
- Pickups
The McCarty is equipped with two humbucking pickups, which give it a powerful, distorted sound. The pickups are wired in a variety of ways, which gives the guitar a wide range of tones.
- Sound
The McCarty has a versatile sound that can handle both clean and distorted tones. The guitar’s humbucking pickups give it a powerful, distorted sound that is perfect for rock and metal. However, the guitar’s clean tones are also very good, making it a great choice for a variety of genres.
- Playability
The McCarty is a comfortable guitar to play. The guitar’s neck is thin and easy to reach, and the frets are well-spaced. The guitar’s body is also contoured to fit the player’s body, making it comfortable to play for long periods of time.
The PRS McCarty is a great choice for guitarists who want a versatile guitar that can handle both clean and distorted tones. The guitar’s high-quality construction, great sound, and comfortable playability make it a great choice for a variety of genres.
Frequently Asked Questions about Axl Electric Guitar
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Axl Rose’s electric guitars, along with their answers:
Question 1: What is Axl Rose’s most famous electric guitar?
Axl Rose’s most famous electric guitar is the Gibson Les Paul Standard, which he has used on many of Guns N’ Roses’ biggest hits, including “Welcome to the Jungle,” “Sweet Child O’ Mine,” and “November Rain.”
Question 2: What other electric guitars has Axl Rose used?
In addition to the Gibson Les Paul Standard, Axl Rose has also used a variety of other electric guitars over the years, including the Gibson ES-335, Fender Stratocaster, Jackson RR, B.C. Rich Mockingbird, Gretsch White Falcon, Gibson J-45, Epiphone Les Paul Standard, Fender Telecaster, and PRS McCarty.
Question 3: What are the key differences between Axl Rose’s different electric guitars?
The key differences between Axl Rose’s different electric guitars are their body shape, construction, pickups, and sound. For example, the Gibson Les Paul Standa
rd has a solid mahogany body with a maple top, two humbucking pickups, and a warm, thick sound, while the Fender Stratocaster has a solid alder or ash body with a maple neck and three single-coil pickups, and a bright, twangy sound.
Question 4: What is Axl Rose’s favorite electric guitar?
Axl Rose has said that his favorite electric guitar is the Gibson Les Paul Standard, which he has used on more recordings and live performances than any other guitar.
Question 5: How much do Axl Rose’s electric guitars cost?
The price of Axl Rose’s electric guitars varies depending on the model and year of manufacture. However, his most famous guitar, the Gibson Les Paul Standard, typically sells for around $3,000.
Question 6: Where can I buy Axl Rose’s electric guitars?
Axl Rose’s electric guitars can be purchased from a variety of music stores and online retailers. However, it is important to note that some of his guitars, such as the Gibson Les Paul Standard, are no longer in production and may be difficult to find.
Summary: Axl Rose has used a variety of electric guitars over the years, but his most famous guitar is the Gibson Les Paul Standard. The key differences between his different guitars are their body shape, construction, pickups, and sound. Axl Rose’s favorite electric guitar is the Gibson Les Paul Standard, which he has used on more recordings and live performances than any other guitar.
Next: For more information on Axl Rose’s electric guitars, please visit the following resources:
- Gibson Les Paul Standard
- Fender Stratocaster
- PRS McCarty
Tips for Choosing the Right Axl Electric Guitar
Choosing the right Axl electric guitar can be a daunting task, but it’s important to take the time to find the guitar that’s right for you. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Tip 1: Consider your playing style.
What kind of music do you play? What kind of sound are you looking for? If you’re not sure, experiment with different guitars to see what feels and sounds best.
Tip 2: Think about your budget.
Axl electric guitars can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t overspend.
Tip 3: Do your research.
There are a lot of great resources available online and in music stores that can help you learn about different Axl electric guitars. Read reviews, watch videos, and talk to other guitarists to get their opinions.
Tip 4: Try before you buy.
If possible, try out different Axl electric guitars before you buy one. This will help you get a feel for the guitar and make sure that it’s the right one for you.
Tip 5: Consider your long-term goals.
If you’re serious about playing guitar, you may want to consider buying a higher-quality Axl electric guitar that will last for many years. However, if you’re just starting out, you may want to start with a more affordable guitar.
Summary: Choosing the right Axl electric guitar is an important decision. By following these tips, you can find the guitar that’s right for you and your playing style.
Next: Once you’ve chosen the right Axl electric guitar, it’s important to learn how to play it. Here are a few resources to help you get started:
- How to Play Guitar for Beginners
- Learn to Play Guitar
- PRS Guitars Learning Center
Conclusion
Axl Rose is one of the most iconic guitarists in rock and roll history. His aggressive playing style and use of distortion pedals have created a unique and instantly recognizable sound. Axl’s choice of electric guitars has played a significant role in shaping his sound, and he has used a variety of models over the years.
In this article, we have explored Axl’s electric guitars in detail, discussing the different models he has used, his playing style, and his sound. We have also provided tips for choosing the right Axl electric guitar for your playing style and budget.
Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or just starting out, we hope that this article has given you a deeper understanding of Axl Rose’s electric guitars and their importance to his sound. As Axl continues to tour and record, we can expect to see him continue to use his electric guitars to create new and exciting music for years to come.
