Billy Gibbons
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Billy Gibbons

ZZ Top

The Reverend Willie G. Master of the pinch harmonic, fuzzy grooves, and Texas swagger. Known for his 1959 Les Paul 'Pearly Gates' and massive tone.

3 Eras
13 Gear Items

SIGNATURE TONE

Greasy, pinched, and saturated. Defined by light strings (.007s), a peso coin for a pick, pinch harmonics on almost every note, and a blend of Marshall and Magnatone grind.

SIGNAL CHAINS BY ERA

Explore how the rig evolved over time

1

Tres Hombres Era (1973-1979)

1973-1979 4 items
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Texas blues perfection. 'Pearly Gates' plugged into a cranked Marshall Super Lead defined the sound of 'La Grange' and 'Tush'.

2

Eliminator Era (1983-1985)

1983-1985 4 items
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Synthesizers and fuzzy guitars. The 'Spinning Fur' guitars and the Legend amp created a tighter, more processed sound for MTV.

3

La Futura / Modern Era (2012-Present)

2012-Present 5 items
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Gritty and swampy. Using Magnatone amps and light gauge strings (.007s!) for a slinky, greasy feel.