TheTechnique
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Prince was much more than just a guitarist. He was a composer and producer with the
ability to conduct a group like it was a symphony. His instrumental abilities supersede
most mortals and his guitar playing is no exception. He is extremely skilled and well-versed
in many styles and by not tying himself to any particular one he has total freedom in
songwriting and expression in his
music. He was a master of call and
response, using two instruments or
an instrument and vocals to play off
each other in what could be called an
instrumental “conversation.” Prince
was an accomplished funk guitarist
with a unique sense of when to throw
in a classic rock solo. His melody and
texture can be felt in most every note
he played. He knew how and when
to shred but most of all, he seemed
to know how to make every note
count, something not many guitarists
can claim. He was also a fan of aweinspiring sustained notes and bends,
knowing how to use his fingers and
volume to get unending sustain and
feedback control. This added up to a
ranking of number 27 on the list of
“100 Greatest Artists of All Time”
by Rolling Stone.
He has been compared to legends
like Hendrix and Santana for his
extravagant bends and vibrato as well
as his harsh stabs and guitar grunts. Though he loved to play fast, every note is accounted
for and they all have feeling. From gorgeous acoustic to ‘80s shred, Prince seemed to have
no limits on what he can make a guitar do.
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