rhythm guitar from “the jean genie” by david bowie | ToneDB

the jean genie

david bowie

rhythm guitar

75% ai confidence

Tone Profile

A raw and biting guitar tone with a slightly nasal quality, providing a solid foundation for the song's energetic drive. It's a classic rock sound, direct and punchy.

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The Story

The rhythm guitar on "The Jean Genie" was recorded at Trident Studios in London with producer/engineer Ken Scott. The basic setup used was a Gibson Les Paul through a Marshall Super Lead amplifier, recorded with a Neumann U67 microphone. The track features the characteristic raw, punchy sound of early 1970s rock production.

Production Credits

Producer: Ken Scott

Engineer: Ken Scott

Recorded at: Trident Studios, London

Recreation Tips

  • Start with a Gibson Les Paul and a Marshall Super Lead amplifier.
  • Use a moderate amount of gain on the amplifier to achieve a biting overdrive.
  • Position a Neumann U67 microphone close to the speaker cone.
  • Experiment with EQ to emphasize the midrange frequencies and add a slight nasal quality.
  • Double-track the guitar part for added thickness and impact.

Original Gear

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Substitutions & Recommendations

Alternative to: Gibson Les Paul

Delivers similar humbucker warmth and midrange bite at a budget price point

Alternative to: Marshall Super Lead

Modern Marshall tube amp with vintage voicing that captures the classic Super Lead overdrive character

Alternative to: Marshall Super Lead

High-gain amp plugin with vintage Marshall models that nail the punchy, overdriven tone

Alternative to: Neumann U67

Faithful recreation of the U67's tube warmth and midrange character for close-miking guitar amps

Alternative to: Marshall Super Lead

Modern reissue with the classic Marshall bite and midrange punch essential to this tone

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