Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar is an instrument that has been used by the legendary guitarist for decades. The special tuning Keith Richards uses provides him with a unique sound that has been a signature part of his playing. Also called an open G tuning, this particular tuning allows for easy slide playing and the creation of unique chord voicings. Richards often uses the 5-string guitar when playing slide guitar, which gives his music a distinct and recognizable sound.
Editor’s Notes: The 5-string guitar is an important part of Keith Richards’ sound, and it has helped to create some of the most iconic guitar riffs in rock and roll history. If you’re interested in learning more about this unique instrument, then this guide is for you.
After doing some research and digging through information, we put together this Keith Richards 5-string guitar guide to help you make the right decision. Because we care! We’ve analyzed the most crucial points and aspects of this topic to provide you with a comprehensive understanding.
Key differences or Key takeaways
| Feature | 5-string guitar | Standard 6-string guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of strings | 5 | 6 |
| Tuning | Open G tuning (GDGBD) | Standard tuning (EADGBE) |
| Sound | Unique, slide-oriented sound | Versatile, can be used for a variety of genres |
Transition to main article topics
In this guide, we’ll cover the following topics:
- The history of the 5-string guitar
- How to tune a 5-string guitar
- Basic 5-string guitar chords
- Tips for playing slide guitar on a 5-string guitar
- Famous songs that feature the 5-string guitar
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced guitarist, we hope you’ll find this guide helpful. So grab your 5-string guitar and let’s get started!
1. Tuning
Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar is tuned in open G tuning (GDGBD). This tuning is also known as “open G” or “Spanish tuning.” It is a common tuning for slide guitar, and it is often used in blues and rock music.
Open G tuning is created by tuning the guitar’s strings to the following notes, from lowest to highest: D, G, D, G, B, D. This tuning creates a rich, resonant sound that is perfect for slide guitar playing.
Keith Richards began using open G tuning in the early 1970s. He was inspired by the playing of Ry Cooder, who used open G tuning on his slide guitar. Richards quickly adopted the tuning for his own playing, and it has become a signature part of his sound.
Open G tuning allows Richards to create unique chord voicings and melodies that would not be possible on a standard 6-string guitar. For example, the open G tuning allows Richards to play chords with just two or three fingers, which frees up his other fingers for slide guitar playing.
Overall, the open G tuning is an important part of Keith Richards’ signature sound. It is a versatile tuning that can be used for a variety of genres, from blues to rock to country.
2. Practical Significance
Understanding the connection between “Tuning: Open G tuning (GDGBD)” and “keith richards 5 string guitar” is important for several reasons.
- It helps us to appreciate the unique sound of Keith Richards’ guitar playing.
- It can inspire us to experiment with different guitar tunings.
- It can help us to better understand the history of rock and roll guitar playing.
3. Challenges
One of the challenges of playing in open G tuning is that it can be difficult to learn the new fingerings for chords. However, with practice, it is possible to master open G tuning and to create your own unique sound.
4. Conclusion
Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar is an iconic instrument that has helped to create some of the most memorable music in rock and roll history. The open G tuning is an important part of Richards’ signature sound, and it is a versatile tuning that can be used for a variety of genres.
5. Sound
Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar produces a unique, slide-oriented sound that is instantly recognizable. This sound is created by a combination of factors, including the guitar’s tuning, the strings that are used, and Richards’ playing style.
- Open G tuning: The open G tuning of Richards’ guitar creates a rich, resonant sound that is perfect for slide guitar playing. The open G tuning allows Richards to create unique chord voicings and melodies that would not be possible on a standard 6-string guitar.
- Strings: Richards uses a variety of strings on his 5-string guitar, including both electric and acoustic strings. The type of strings that are used can affect the sound of the guitar, and Richards has experimented with different strings to find the perfect combination for his playing style.
- Playing style: Richards’ playing style is also a major factor in the unique sound of his 5-string guitar. Richards is a master of slide guitar, and he uses a variety of techniques to create his signature sound. Richards often plays his guitar with a slide, which is a metal or glass tube that is placed on the strings. The slide allows Richards to create a variety of sounds, from smooth, sustained notes to sharp, piercing sounds.
The combination of these factors creates the unique, slide-oriented sound of Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar. This sound is instantly recognizable, and it has helped to define the sound of rock and roll music.
6. Playing style
Keith Richards is one of the most iconic guitarists in rock and roll history, and his playing style is a major part of his signature sound. Richards is a master of slide guitar, and he uses a variety of techniques to create his unique sound.
One of the most important aspects of
Richards’ slide guitar playing is his use of open tunings. Open tunings are tunings in which all of the strings are tuned to a chord, and they are often used in slide guitar playing because they make it easier to create slide guitar effects. Richards’ favorite open tuning is open G tuning, which is tuned to the notes GDGBD. This tuning allows Richards to create a variety of slide guitar effects, from smooth, sustained notes to sharp, piercing sounds.
In addition to his use of open tunings, Richards also uses a variety of slide guitar techniques. One of his most common techniques is to use a slide to create a “bottleneck” effect. This effect is created by placing a slide on the string and then sliding it up and down the neck of the guitar. The bottleneck effect can create a variety of sounds, from a smooth, sustained sound to a sharp, piercing sound.
Richards also uses a variety of other slide guitar techniques, such as the “lap steel” technique and the “Hawaiian” technique. The lap steel technique is played by placing the guitar on the player’s lap and using a slide to play the strings. The Hawaiian technique is played by holding the guitar in a vertical position and using a slide to play the strings. These techniques can create a variety of sounds, from a smooth, sustained sound to a sharp, piercing sound.
Richards’ slide guitar playing is an important part of his signature sound. He uses a variety of techniques to create a unique sound that is instantly recognizable. Richards’ slide guitar playing has influenced many other guitarists, and it continues to be a popular style of guitar playing today.
Practical significance
Understanding the connection between “Playing style: Slide guitar” and “keith richards 5 string guitar” is important for several reasons.
- It helps us to appreciate the unique sound of Keith Richards’ guitar playing.
- It can inspire us to experiment with different guitar tunings and playing techniques.
- It can help us to better understand the history of rock and roll guitar playing.
Challenges
One of the challenges of playing slide guitar is that it can be difficult to learn the new fingerings for chords. However, with practice, it is possible to master slide guitar playing and to create your own unique sound.
Conclusion
Keith Richards’ slide guitar playing is an important part of his signature sound. He uses a variety of techniques to create a unique sound that is instantly recognizable. Richards’ slide guitar playing has influenced many other guitarists, and it continues to be a popular style of guitar playing today.
7. Famous songs
Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar has been used on some of the most iconic songs in rock and roll history, including “Honky Tonk Women,” “Brown Sugar,” and “Start Me Up.” These songs are all characterized by their distinctive slide guitar sound, which is created by using a slide to play the strings on the guitar’s neck. Richards’ use of the 5-string guitar on these songs helped to define the sound of the Rolling Stones, and it continues to be an important part of their sound today.
There are several reasons why Richards’ 5-string guitar is so well-suited for these songs. First, the open G tuning of the guitar creates a rich, resonant sound that is perfect for slide guitar playing. Second, the 5-string guitar allows Richards to create unique chord voicings and melodies that would not be possible on a standard 6-string guitar. Third, the slide guitar technique that Richards uses on these songs allows him to create a variety of sounds, from smooth, sustained notes to sharp, piercing sounds.
The combination of these factors creates the unique sound that is heard on these classic Rolling Stones songs. Richards’ 5-string guitar is an essential part of the Rolling Stones’ sound, and it has helped to create some of the most memorable songs in rock and roll history.
Practical significance
Understanding the connection between “Famous songs: “Honky Tonk Women,” “Brown Sugar,” “Start Me Up”” and “keith richards 5 string guitar” is important for several reasons.
- It helps us to appreciate the unique sound of Keith Richards’ guitar playing.
- It can inspire us to experiment with different guitar tunings and playing techniques.
- It can help us to better understand the history of rock and roll guitar playing.
Challenges
One of the challenges of playing slide guitar is that it can be difficult to learn the new fingerings for chords. However, with practice, it is possible to master slide guitar playing and to create your own unique sound.
Conclusion
Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar is an important part of his signature sound. He uses a variety of techniques to create a unique sound that is instantly recognizable. Richards’ slide guitar playing has influenced many other guitarists, and it continues to be a popular style of guitar playing today.
Table of songs
| Song | Album | Year released |
|---|---|---|
| “Honky Tonk Women” | Let It Bleed | 1969 |
| “Brown Sugar” | Sticky Fingers | 1971 |
| “Start Me Up” | Tattoo You | 1981 |
8. History
Keith Richards began using a 5-string guitar in the early 1970s. He was inspired by the playing of Ry Cooder, who used a 5-string guitar on his slide guitar recordings. Richards quickly adopted the 5-string guitar for his own playing, and it has become a signature part of his sound.
There are several reasons why Richards’ 5-string guitar is so important to his sound. First, the open G tuning of the guitar creates a rich, resonant sound that is perfect for slide guitar playing. Second, the 5-string guitar allows Richards to create unique chord voicings and melodies that would not be possible on a standard 6-string guitar. Third, the slide guitar technique that Richards uses on his 5-string guitar allows him to create a variety of sounds, from smooth, sustained notes to sharp, piercing sounds.
The combination of these factors creates the unique sound that is heard on many of the Rolling Stones’ most iconic songs, including “Honky Tonk Women,” “Brown Sugar,” and “Start Me Up.” Richards’ 5-string guitar is an essential part of the Rolling Stones’ sound, and it has helped to create some of the most memorable songs in rock and roll history.
Practical significance
Understanding the connection between “History: Used by Richards since the early 1970s” and “keith richards 5 string guitar” is important for several reasons.
- It helps us to appreciate the unique sound of Keith Richards’ guitar playing.
- It can inspire us to experiment with different guitar tunings and playing techniques.
- It can help us to better understand the history of rock and roll guitar playing.
Challenges
One of the challenges of playing slide guitar is that it can be difficult to learn the new fingerings for chords. However, with practice, it is possible to master slide guitar playing and to create your own unique sound.
Conclusion
Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar is an important part of his signature sound. He uses a variety of techniques to create a unique sound that is instantly recognizable. Richards’ slide guitar p
laying has influenced many other guitarists, and it continues to be a popular style of guitar playing today.
Table of songs featuring Richards’ 5-string guitar
| Song | Album | Year released |
|---|---|---|
| “Honky Tonk Women” | Let It Bleed | 1969 |
| “Brown Sugar” | Sticky Fingers | 1971 |
| “Start Me Up” | Tattoo You | 1981 |
9. Influence
Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar has had a profound influence on other guitarists, inspiring many to adopt open G tuning. This tuning, which involves tuning the strings to GDGBD, creates a rich, resonant sound that is perfect for slide guitar playing. Richards’ use of open G tuning on his 5-string guitar has helped to popularize the tuning, and it is now used by many other guitarists in a variety of genres.
- Examples of guitarists who have adopted open G tuning: Many guitarists have been inspired by Keith Richards’ use of open G tuning, including Ry Cooder, Bob Dylan, and Bonnie Raitt. These guitarists have used open G tuning to create their own unique sounds, and they have helped to spread the popularity of the tuning.
- Impact on the sound of rock and roll: Open G tuning has had a significant impact on the sound of rock and roll music. The tuning allows guitarists to create a variety of sounds, from smooth, sustained notes to sharp, piercing sounds. This versatility has made open G tuning a popular choice for many rock and roll guitarists.
- Challenges of playing in open G tuning: While open G tuning can be a rewarding tuning to play in, it can also be challenging to learn. The new fingerings for chords can be difficult to master, and it can take time to develop the technique needed to play slide guitar in open G tuning.
- Conclusion: Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar has had a profound influence on other guitarists, inspiring many to adopt open G tuning. This tuning has become a popular choice for many guitarists in a variety of genres, and it has had a significant impact on the sound of rock and roll music.
10. Availability
The availability of the Keith Richards 5-string guitar from a diverse range of retailers holds significant implications for guitarists and music enthusiasts alike.
- Variety of options: The wide availability of the Keith Richards 5-string guitar empowers musicians with a diverse selection of options to choose from. Multiple retailers offer the guitar, allowing buyers to compare prices, models, and features to find the instrument that best aligns with their preferences and budget.
- Convenience and accessibility: The guitar’s availability through various retailers enhances convenience and accessibility for musicians. It eliminates the need for extensive searching or reliance on a single source, enabling guitarists to easily locate and purchase the instrument from their preferred retailer.
- Enhanced competition: The presence of multiple retailers selling the Keith Richards 5-string guitar fosters competition, which can result in more favorable pricing and promotions for consumers. Retailers may offer discounts, bundles, or other incentives to attract customers, providing guitarists with greater value and affordability.
- Wider distribution: The availability of the guitar from a variety of retailers facilitates its wider distribution, ensuring that musicians in different regions and countries have access to this iconic instrument. This expanded distribution network contributes to the guitar’s popularity and accessibility, making it more readily available to those who seek its unique sound and playing experience.
In conclusion, the availability of the Keith Richards 5-string guitar from a variety of retailers empowers guitarists with choice, convenience, and accessibility. It fosters competition, enhances affordability, and ensures the wider distribution of this exceptional instrument, contributing to its enduring legacy in the world of music.
11. Price
The price of a Keith Richards 5-string guitar varies depending on several factors, including the make and model of the guitar. Generally, guitars from reputable brands and with higher-quality materials and construction will command a higher price. Additionally, limited edition or custom-made guitars may also be more expensive.
- Make and model: The make and model of the guitar are two of the most important factors that determine its price. Guitars from well-known and respected brands, such as Fender or Gibson, typically cost more than guitars from lesser-known brands. Additionally, different models within a brand’s lineup may have different prices depending on their features and materials.
- Materials and construction: The materials used to construct the guitar also affect its price. Guitars made from higher-quality woods, such as mahogany or rosewood, are typically more expensive than guitars made from less expensive woods, such as plywood. Additionally, guitars with more intricate construction, such as those with carved tops or binding, are also typically more expensive.
- Limited edition and custom-made guitars: Limited edition and custom-made guitars are often more expensive than standard production models. This is because these guitars are typically made in smaller quantities and may feature unique features or materials. Additionally, custom-made guitars are often made to the specific requirements of the customer, which can also add to the cost.
When purchasing a Keith Richards 5-string guitar, it is important to consider your budget and needs. If you are looking for a high-quality guitar that will last for many years, you may be willing to pay a higher price. However, if you are on a budget, there are many affordable options available that still offer great sound and playability.
12. Difficulty to play
The Keith Richards 5-string guitar, while renowned for its distinctive sound, presents a certain level of difficulty for beginners. This facet of the guitar warrants exploration due to its impact on the learning curve and the techniques required to master it.
- Open G tuning: Unlike the standard tuning of a 6-string guitar, the Keith Richards 5-string guitar employs an open G tuning (GDGBD). This unique tuning necessitates a significant adjustment in finger placement and chord shapes, particularly for beginners accustomed to the conventional tuning. The altered string tensions and intervals can be initially challenging to navigate.
- Slide guitar technique: Keith Richards’ signature slide guitar style is a defining characteristic of his playing. While slide guitar can produce captivating sounds, it requires a specialized technique that involves using a slide (typicall
y a glass or metal tube) to fret the strings. Beginners may encounter difficulties in coordinating the slide with their fretting hand, as well as in developing the necessary dexterity and precision. - String tension: Due to the open G tuning, the strings on the Keith Richards 5-string guitar are typically tuned to a lower tension than in standard tuning. This reduced tension can feel unfamiliar to beginners, affecting their ability to bend notes and execute certain techniques. It requires a delicate touch and precise finger control to achieve the desired articulation.
- Intonation and harmonics: The open G tuning can also present challenges in maintaining accurate intonation and harmonics. The intervals between the strings differ from standard tuning, and beginners may struggle to adjust their ear and playing style accordingly. Achieving clear and harmonious notes requires careful attention to finger placement and a developed sense of pitch.
Despite these challenges, the Keith Richards 5-string guitar can be a rewarding instrument to learn. With dedication, practice, and a willingness to embrace its unique characteristics, beginners can overcome these hurdles and unlock the rich sonic possibilities that this guitar offers.
13. Maintenance
The Keith Richards 5-string guitar, like any musical instrument, demands proper and consistent maintenance to sustain its optimal performance and longevity. This facet of guitar ownership holds significance in ensuring the guitar’s playability, tonal quality, and overall functionality.
- Regular cleaning: Routine cleaning of the guitar’s body, neck, and strings is crucial to maintain its appearance and prevent the accumulation of dirt, dust, and moisture. This involves wiping down the guitar with a soft, clean cloth after each use and periodically using a guitar polish to protect the finish.
- String replacement: The strings on the Keith Richards 5-string guitar, like any other guitar, are subject to wear and tear and need to be replaced regularly. The frequency of string changes depends on playing habits and the desired tone. Replacing old strings with new ones ensures optimal intonation, tuning stability, and a brighter, more vibrant sound.
- Fret maintenance: The frets on the guitar’s neck play a vital role in producing clear and accurate notes. Over time, frets can become worn or develop uneven surfaces, affecting the guitar’s playability. Regular fret maintenance, such as cleaning and polishing, helps to maintain their smoothness and prolong their lifespan.
- Truss rod adjustments: The truss rod is a metal rod that runs inside the guitar’s neck and helps to adjust the neck’s curvature. Seasonal changes in temperature and humidity can affect the neck’s relief, causing it to bow or warp. Periodic truss rod adjustments ensure that the neck maintains its proper curvature, which is essential for comfortable playing and accurate intonation.
By adhering to these maintenance practices, guitarists can preserve the integrity of their Keith Richards 5-string guitar, ensuring that it continues to deliver the distinctive sound and playing experience for which it is renowned.
14. Accessories
The Keith Richards 5-string guitar’s versatility extends beyond its distinctive sound and playing style, as it can be further enhanced with a range of accessories, including slides and capos. These accessories open up new sonic possibilities and facilitate diverse playing techniques, contributing to the guitar’s overall appeal and functionality.
- Slides: Slides are essential tools for achieving the signature slide guitar sound associated with Keith Richards. Made from materials such as glass or metal, slides are placed on the guitar’s strings and moved along the neck to create smooth, sustained notes. The use of slides allows guitarists to explore microtonal intervals and add a unique expressive dimension to their playing.
- Capos: Capos are devices that are attached to the guitar’s neck, allowing guitarists to change the pitch of the strings without retuning. By placing the capo at different frets, guitarists can access different keys and voicings, expanding their harmonic and melodic options. Capos are particularly useful for playing in open tunings, such as the open G tuning commonly used on the Keith Richards 5-string guitar.
The incorporation of these accessories into the Keith Richards 5-string guitar’s repertoire empowers guitarists to unlock a broader sonic spectrum and enhance their playing capabilities. Slides and capos provide avenues for experimentation, creativity, and the exploration of diverse musical genres, making the Keith Richards 5-string guitar a truly versatile and expressive instrument.
FAQs about Keith Richards’ 5-String Guitar
This section aims to address frequently asked questions regarding Keith Richards’ iconic 5-string guitar, providing informative answers to common concerns and misconceptions.
Question 1: What is the significance of Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar?
Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar holds immense significance in the world of rock and roll music. It is renowned for producing his signature sound, characterized by the use of open G tuning and slide guitar techniques. This unique setup allows Richards to create a distinctive and expressive sound that has influenced countless guitarists.
Question 2: What are the key features of Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar?
The guitar features a 5-string configuration, with the strings tuned to an open G tuning (GDGBD). This tuning allows for easy slide playing and the creation of unique chord voicings. Additionally, the guitar often incorporates a slide, a metal or glass tube placed on the strings to create the signature slide guitar sound.
Question 3: What makes the sound of Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar so unique?
The combination of the open G tuning and Richards’ slide guitar technique creates a rich, resonant sound that is instantly recognizable. The open tuning allows for the creation of unique chord voicings and melodies, while the slide guitar technique adds a smooth, sustained quality to the notes.
Question 4: How has Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar influenced other guitarists?
Richards’ innovative use of the 5-string guitar and open G tuning has had a profound influence on other guitarists. Many notable musicians, including Ry Cooder, Bob Dylan, and Bonnie Raitt, have adopted these techniques, incorporating them into their own playing styles.
Question 5: What are some of the famous songs that feature Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar?
Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar has been used on numerous iconic Rolling Stones recordings, including “Honky Tonk Women,” “Brown Sugar,” and “Start Me Up.” These songs showcase the distinctive sound of his guitar playing and its significant contribution to the band’s overall sound.
Question 6: Where can I learn more about Keith Richards and his 5-string guitar?
There are various resources available to learn more about Keith Richards and his signature guitar. Books, articles, interviews, and online forums provide in-depth information about his playing style, th
e history of his guitar, and its impact on rock and roll music.
In conclusion, Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar is an essential part of his signature sound and has played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of rock and roll music. Its unique features and innovative use have inspired countless guitarists and continue to be a source of fascination and inspiration for music enthusiasts worldwide.
Transition to the next article section:
Tips for Playing Keith Richards’ 5-String Guitar
Mastering the techniques and nuances of Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar playing requires dedication and practice. Here are some essential tips to help you achieve that signature sound:
Tip 1: Learn open G tuning: The open G tuning (GDGBD) is the foundation of Richards’ guitar sound. Familiarize yourself with the tuning and practice playing basic chords and scales to develop muscle memory.
Tip 2: Master slide guitar technique: The use of a slide is synonymous with Richards’ playing style. Practice sliding smoothly along the strings, experimenting with different pressures and angles to create expressive notes and melodies.
Tip 3: Explore chord voicings: The open G tuning opens up unique chord voicings that are not possible on a standard 6-string guitar. Experiment with different fingerings and inversions to expand your harmonic vocabulary.
Tip 4: Develop a strong picking hand: Richards’ rhythmic style often involves a combination of strumming and fingerpicking. Practice developing a steady and precise picking hand to maintain the groove and enhance the overall sound.
Tip 5: Listen to and analyze Richards’ playing: Immerse yourself in Richards’ music to understand his techniques and phrasing. Pay attention to his use of slide guitar, chord voicings, and rhythmic patterns.
Tip 6: Experiment with different slides: Experiment with slides made of different materials, such as glass, metal, or ceramic. Each material produces a unique tone and feel, allowing you to explore various sonic possibilities.
Tip 7: Practice regularly: As with any instrument, consistent practice is key to developing proficiency on Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar. Dedicate regular time to practicing the techniques and tips outlined above.
Summary of key takeaways or benefits: By following these tips, you will gain a deeper understanding of Keith Richards’ unique guitar style and develop the skills necessary to emulate his signature sound. Practice, experimentation, and immersion in his music will help you unlock the potential of the 5-string guitar and create your own expressive and captivating performances.
Transition to the article’s conclusion: Mastering Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar playing technique is a rewarding endeavor that requires dedication and a passion for music. Embracing these tips will provide a solid foundation for your journey, enabling you to pay homage to one of the greatest guitarists of all time.
Conclusion
Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar has left an indelible mark on the history of rock and roll music. Its unique sound, characterized by open G tuning and slide guitar techniques, has inspired countless guitarists and shaped the sound of countless iconic songs.
Mastering the nuances of Richards’ playing style requires dedication, practice, and a deep understanding of the instrument. By embracing the tips outlined in this article, guitarists can embark on a journey of exploration and discovery, unlocking the potential of the 5-string guitar and creating their own expressive and captivating performances.
The legacy of Keith Richards’ 5-string guitar continues to resonate, serving as a testament to his innovative spirit and enduring influence on the world of music. As guitarists continue to explore the possibilities of this unique instrument, the sound of the 5-string guitar will undoubtedly continue to inspire and captivate generations to come.
