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The guitar has been a game-changer in American popular culture, turning into both a musical powerhouse and a cultural icon. Its influence cuts across genres, decades, and social movements, weaving itself into the essence of American life. From the early days of folk and blues to the electrifying rise of rock 'n' roll and beyond, the guitar has been central in expressing the nation's values, struggles, and triumphs.
The journey starts with the raw sounds of folk and blues. In the early 20th century, the acoustic guitar was a fixture in rural America, especially in the South. Folk artists like Woody Guthrie used the guitar to tell tales of hardship and hope. Meanwhile, the blues emerged in the Mississippi Delta, with legends like Robert Johnson and B.B. King using the guitar to convey deep emotions and set the stage for future musical revolutions.
After World War II, the electric guitar changed everything. The 1950s saw the birth of rock 'n' roll, with Chuck Berry and Elvis Presley creating a new sound that resonated with the youth. Rock 'n' roll became a cultural wave, challenging norms and celebrating individuality, with icons like Jimi Hendrix pushing the limits of what the guitar could do.
The guitar’s influence spread beyond rock 'n' roll, shaping other genres like funk, pop, and even hip-hop. Artists like Prince and Eddie Van Halen showcased its versatility, while collaborations between Run-D.M.C. and Aerosmith introduced hip-hop fans to the power of the electric guitar.
The guitar's influence extends beyond music, touching every corner of American popular culture. It's a potent symbol in visual art, fashion, and film, evoking creativity, rebellion, and freedom. Movies like "Back to the Future" and "School of Rock" celebrate its significance. The guitar has also played a role in social and political movements, from the protest songs of the 1960s to benefit concerts like Live Aid.
The guitar's journey through American popular culture is a testament to its enduring power and versatility. It has inspired countless artists and left a lasting mark on the cultural landscape. As both a musical instrument and a cultural symbol, the guitar embodies the spirit of American creativity, resilience, and freedom, continuing to shape the nation's identity and inspire future generations.
By Chase Pereira
Chase Pereira is a drummer, bassist, and a guitar student living in the San Francisco Bay Area. He is the Operations Lead for Thalia, and has been with the company since 2016. He helps design products, and creates many of the different inlay designs you have seen available on thaliacapos.com.
It’s safe to say that some of the most influential musicians in the 1960s came from Britain. The list sure backs up that fact: Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page, Jeff Beck, Pete Townshend, Peter Green, Richie Blackmore, John Lennon, George Harrison, and I can go on and on and on...
Notice, though, that I said musicians, not just guitarists. There are many heroes to be found for every instrument, particularly with our focus for this piece: the drums.
I’m not sure what the origin of this particular instrument was (though we may find out later), but maybe it was a crafty guitarist who thought: “You know what’s better than six strings? Double! Twelve strings!”
This story likely isn’t true, but the 12-string guitar is valuable in any guitarist's arsenal. With its thick, bright, and lush sound, the instrument has been a staple in most styles of music since its inception.
From being found in the wash to being left on counters and desks to being counted with change out of a guitarist’s pocket, guitar picks are the definitive proof that the holder undoubtedly plays the instrument.
But as omnipresent as they are, how many guitarists have pondered the history of the pick itself? Who are they? What were they doing?
