Prepare to have your mind blown and your fretboard fingers tingling as we dive into the wild world of the top 7 craziest myths surrounding these six-stringed wonders!
From the absurd belief that playing one will instantly turn you into a rock god to the shocking claim that they can summon lightning (yes, really!), we’re here to separate the electrifying truths from the outrageous fabrications.
Grab your pick and hold onto your amp—this myth-busting journey is about to hit a power chord you won’t want to miss!
Playing guitar will give you giant hands
One of the most amusing myths about playing guitar is that it will give you giant hands, transforming you into a musical Hulk.
The truth is, while playing guitar does strengthen your fingers and improve skill, it won’t magically inflate your hand size to superhero proportions.
Instead, you’ll develop nimble and agile fingers that can dance across the fretboard with ease, allowing you to play intricate chords and solos
So, don’t worry—your hands will stay their average size, but they’ll become strong and skilled enough to handle any song you want to play. Just enjoy practicing without the need for a guitar designed for giant hands!
Guitars tuned to 432Hz have healing properties
The belief that guitars tuned to 432Hz possess healing properties has gained popularity among some musicians and wellness enthusiasts, but the science behind this claim is largely unfounded.
While it’s true that 432Hz is often described as a more “natural” frequency, there is no concrete evidence to support the idea that it has any special healing effects compared to the standard tuning of 440Hz.
However, experimenting with different tunings can be a fun and creative way to explore new sounds and enhance your musical experience. Many musicians find that playing at 432Hz can evoke a unique vibe and emotional response, making it worth a try for those curious about its effects.
So, while the healing claims may be debunked, tuning your guitar to 432Hz can still add an exciting twist to your music-making journey!
Vintage guitars sound better because of “mojo”
Many musicians and collectors swear by the idea that vintage guitars sound better due to “mojo,” and there is some truth to it.
Over time, the aging process of the wood in vintage guitars can enhance their tonal qualities, often resulting in a warmer, richer sound that is highly sought after. The vibrations and resonance of the wood change as it ages, which can contribute to a unique character that newer guitars may not possess.
While “mojo” might be a fun way to describe this phenomenon, it’s essential to recognize that factors like craftsmanship, materials, and playability also play significant roles in a guitar’s overall sound.
Ultimately, while not every vintage guitar will automatically sound better, many players find that the combination of aged wood and craftsmanship creates a distinctive tone that is hard to replicate in modern instruments.
You must use a pick to shred fast solos
The notion that you must use a pick to shred fast solos is a common misconception, as many talented guitarists demonstrate that fingerstyle playing can achieve just as much speed and precision.
Legendary musicians like Mark Knopfler have shown that using fingers instead of a pick can produce a unique tone and articulation, allowing for intricate solos that captivate audiences. Fingerstyle shredding not only showcases technical skill but also offers a different expressive quality that can set a player apart.
While using a pick can certainly facilitate fast playing for many, it’s essential to recognize that personal style and technique are what truly matter in music.
Expensive guitars are always better
The belief that expensive guitars are always better is a myth that has been debunked time and again, particularly by punk legends who have made their mark using cheap, beat-up instruments.
Iconic musicians like Joe Strummer of The Clash and Kurt Cobain of Nirvana often played affordable guitars that were far from pristine, yet their raw energy and creativity resonated with fans worldwide. These artists demonstrated that skill, passion, and a unique sound matter far more than the price tag attached to an instrument.
In fact, the wear and tear on a well-loved guitar can add character and authenticity to a player’s tone. While high-end guitars can offer superior craftsmanship and materials, it’s essential to remember that great music can be made with any instrument, regardless of its cost.
You can get electrocuted on stage
The fear of getting electrocuted on stage is a rare but real concern for musicians using electric instruments and equipment. While incidents are uncommon, the risk increases if proper safety measures are not taken, particularly regarding the grounding of electrical gear.
A faulty connection or improper setup can lead to dangerous situations, making it essential for musicians to regularly check their equipment before performances.
Ensuring that all gear is properly grounded can significantly reduce the risk of electrical shock and create a safer environment for both performers and the audience. Additionally, using high-quality cables and equipment can further minimize potential hazards.
Left-handed guitarists have an advantage
The notion that left-handed guitarists have an inherent advantage over their right-handed counterparts is a myth; in reality, it’s all about different mechanics and personal adaptation.
While left-handed players may find certain techniques more comfortable due to their natural hand orientation, this does not necessarily translate to a superior playing ability. Both left-handed and right-handed guitarists face their unique challenges, whether it’s finding the right instrument or mastering specific techniques.
In fact, many left-handed guitarists choose to play right-handed guitars, which can lead to a different set of mechanics that they must learn to navigate. Left-handed guitarists may have different experiences, but they don’t have a built-in advantage over their right-handed peers.
3 ELECTRIC GUITARS WE RECOMMEND FOR BEGINNERS
LA Electric Guitar by Gear4music, White
FEATURES: Scale Length: 25.5"
OTHER INFO: 3x Single Coil, pickup configuration
- Striking white finish for an elegant and stylish appearance.
- Balanced and rich sound suitable for various playing styles.
- Affordable quality.
- Effortless tuning with precise tuning mechanisms.
- Lightweight design reduces fatigue during long sessions or performances.
- Basic accessories may require additional purchases for a complete setup.
- Glossy finish attracts fingerprints, requiring frequent cleaning.
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™.
Yamaha Pacifica 012, Black
FEATURES: Scale Length: 25.5"
OTHER INFO: 0.009-0.042
- Cosmetically well-painted with no noticeable blemishes.
- Decent sound quality for its price range.
- Good fretwork with no sharp edges.
- Versatile pickup configuration with a humbucker and two single coils.
- Affordable entry-level option for beginners.
- Plinky higher note frets, indicating potential setup issues.
- Neck feels rough and unfinished.
- Limited potential for ultra-low action due to setup constraints.
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™.
Epiphone Les Paul Standard Plus
PERFECT FOR: standard for guitarists
FEATURES: The top-quality guitar holds a set neck with rosewood fingerboard and Trapezoid inlays.
OTHER INFO: The standard of the product with cream binding and a bridge offers the maximum guitar specifications.
Epiphone Les Paul Standard Plus
- Though a refurbished product, it still offers a brand-new look.
- Product specifications provide the right tone.
- Good pickup makes it a perfect one for the musicians.
- Solid electronics provide durability.
- Fret buzz is a common issue.
- The heavy setup makes it inconvenient.
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™.
Debunking Guitar Myths:
Embrace Your Unique Sound and
Play with Passion
The world of guitar myths is filled with entertaining misconceptions that can both amuse and educate players.
From the belief that playing guitar will give you giant hands to the notion that only expensive instruments can produce excellent sound, these myths highlight the importance of personal style, technique, and individual experience in music.
While some claims, like the healing properties of 432Hz tuning, may lack scientific backing, they still offer a fun opportunity for exploration. And, whether you’re a left-handed player navigating unique challenges or a shredder proving that fingerstyle can be just as fast as using a pick, the essence of music lies in creativity and passion rather than adhering to myths.
So, embrace the journey, debunk the myths, and let your unique sound shine through!
