From drills to yo-yos, guitarists have wielded the weirdest tools in pursuit of sonic greatness. Yes, you read that right—musicians are a wild breed!
As someone who’s barely managed not to trip over a guitar cable, let alone serenade you with a chair leg, I find these stories both inspiring and completely mind-boggling.
You won’t believe what’s made this outrageous list, and trust me, don’t let these unique musical experiences pass you by.
Eddie Van Halen's Power Drill Solo
In the song “Poundcake” from Van Halen’s 1991 album “For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge,” Eddie Van Halen showcased his innovative guitar techniques by incorporating a power drill into his solo.
By pressing the drill against the strings of his guitar, he created a unique, high-pitched sound that added an unexpected and exciting element to the track. This unconventional approach to guitar playing exemplified Van Halen’s creativity and willingness to push the boundaries of rock music.
Danny Gatton's Beer Bottle Slide Solo
Danny Gatton, a renowned American guitarist, was known for his incredible technical skill and creative approach to playing.
During a performance, Gatton once demonstrated his ingenuity by using a beer bottle as a slide to shred a solo.
By sliding the bottleneck along the strings of his guitar, he created a distinctive, bluesy sound that showcased his mastery of the instrument. This unconventional technique highlighted Gatton’s ability to think outside the box and adapt everyday objects to create unique and captivating musical moments.
Brian May's Unconventional Pick Choice
Brian May, the legendary guitarist of Queen, is known for his distinctive playing style and unparalleled tone.
One of the most intriguing aspects of his technique is his unconventional choice of using a sixpence coin instead of a traditional guitar pick.
May’s preference for the coin originated from his desire to achieve a unique sound, as the serrated edge of the sixpence creates a bright and sharp attack when striking the strings.
This peculiar choice has become an integral part of May’s signature sound, contributing to his status as one of the most innovative and influential guitarists in rock history.
Jimi Hendrix's Teeth-Grinding Guitar Technique
Jimi Hendrix, one of the most iconic and influential guitarists of all time, was known for his electrifying stage presence and unparalleled musical creativity.
One of his most famous and unconventional playing techniques involved using his teeth to strum the guitar strings during live performances. This theatrical and seemingly impossible feat showcased Hendrix’s incredible showmanship and his ability to push the boundaries of what was considered possible on the guitar.
By playing with his teeth, Hendrix not only captivated audiences but also demonstrated his deep connection to his instrument and his willingness to experiment with unorthodox methods to create new and exciting sounds.
Jimmy Page's Theremin Sorcery
Jimmy Page, the legendary guitarist of Led Zeppelin, was known for his innovative approach to creating unique sounds and textures in his music.
One of the most fascinating examples of this was his use of the theremin. This electronic instrument is played without physical contact, instead relying on the performer’s hand movements to control pitch and volume.
Page incorporated the theremin into his guitar solos, using it to produce otherworldly and haunting sound effects that added an extra layer of depth and mystery to Led Zeppelin’s already groundbreaking music.
Lee Ranaldo's Sonic Screwdriver
Sonic Youth’s guitarist Lee Ranaldo is known for using screwdrivers to create unique, gritty sounds in the band’s experimental rock music. By placing screwdrivers under the strings or using them as slides, Ranaldo can generate unconventional tones and textures that contribute to Sonic Youth’s distinctive sound.
This technique, along with other prepared guitar methods employed by the band, has been influential in the world of experimental and noise rock, inspiring countless musicians to explore new ways of manipulating their instruments.
Buckethead's Jello-Dipped Fingers
Buckethead, the enigmatic guitar virtuoso, is known for his unorthodox playing techniques, and one of the most bizarre examples is his use of Jello-dipped fingers during performances. By coating his fingers in the wobbly, gelatinous substance, Buckethead creates a unique tactile sensation that allows him to glide across the strings with ease, producing smooth and fluid sounds that defy conventional guitar playing.
This messy yet mesmerizing technique is a testament to Buckethead’s creative spirit and his willingness to explore new ways of expressing himself through his instrument.
Love it or hate it, there’s no denying that Buckethead’s Jello-dipped fingers add an element of surprise and intrigue to his already captivating performances.
Johnny Greenwood's Bow-Guided Guitar
Johnny Greenwood, the innovative guitarist and multi-instrumentalist of the band Radiohead, is known for his experimental approach to creating unique and atmospheric sounds.
One of his most distinctive techniques involves using a violin bow on his guitar strings, which produces haunting, ethereal tones that have become a signature part of Radiohead’s sound.
By drawing the bow across the strings, Greenwood creates sustained, textural drones and eerie, otherworldly effects that add depth and emotion to the band’s music.
Adrian Belew's Menagerie of Sound
Adrian Belew, the innovative guitarist known for his work with King Crimson and as a solo artist, has always been at the forefront of experimenting with unusual sounds and techniques.
One of his most notable and creative approaches involves using a guitar synthesizer in conjunction with various objects, such as a vibrator, to manipulate the strings and create animal-like noises.
By applying these objects to his guitar strings and utilizing the synthesizer’s capabilities, Belew produces an array of unique and otherworldly sounds that mimic anything from elephants trumpeting to seagulls squawking. This inventive technique has become a signature aspect of Belew’s playing style.
Fred Frith's Kitchen Sink Symphony
Fred Frith, the experimental guitarist and composer, is renowned for his unconventional approach to creating avant-garde guitar textures and soundscapes.
Frith often employs an array of household objects, such as egg beaters, knitting needles, and paintbrushes, as tools to manipulate his guitar strings and generate unique, unorthodox sounds.
By using these everyday items in combination with his guitar, Frith creates a world of sonic possibilities that push the boundaries of traditional guitar playing and showcase his innovative spirit.
10 Unbelievable Objects Guitarists Used for
Mind-Blowing Solos
From sixpence coins and teeth to household objects, these guitarists have proven that there are no limits to creativity when it comes to playing solos.
Their unconventional approaches and willingness to experiment with unorthodox techniques have not only pushed the boundaries of what is possible on the guitar but have also inspired countless musicians to think outside the box.
These ten crazy things guitarists have used to play solos serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of innovation and the limitless potential for artistic expression in the world of music.
The Best Electric Guitar To Get Started
Squier Bullet Mustang HH, Black
FEATURES: Scale Length: 24"
OTHER INFO: Fretboard: Laurel
- Great value for its price.
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When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
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The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Yamaha Pacifica 012, Black
FEATURES: Scale Length: 25.5"
OTHER INFO: 0.009-0.042
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- Plinky higher note frets, indicating potential setup issues.
- Neck feels rough and unfinished.
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When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
LA Electric Guitar by Gear4music, White
FEATURES: Scale Length: 25.5"
OTHER INFO: 3x Single Coil, pickup configuration
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- Basic accessories may require additional purchases for a complete setup.
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When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
