TONEDB

lead guitar from “november rain” by guns n' roses | ToneDB

november rain

guns n' roses

lead guitar

92% ai confidence

Tone Profile

A soaring, vocal lead tone with rich sustain, creamy Marshall overdrive, and a distinct chorus shimmer, perfect for epic melodic solos.

Signal Chain

Instrument: Gibson Les Paul Standard (likely a 1987 or similar model)

Amp: Marshall Silver Jubilee 2555 (or a modded Marshall JCM800)

Microphone: Shure SM57

Processing: Boss GE-7 Equalizer, Boss CE-5 Chorus Ensemble (or similar, e.g., Boss CE-1/CE-2), Boss DD-3 Digital Delay

Other: Neck pickup primarily used for solos. Amp cranked for natural tube saturation and sustain. Significant studio reverb and potentially further delay added during mixing.

Recording Notes

  • Extensive use of the neck pickup for its warm, singing quality and sustain.
  • The chorus effect is a key and very audible component of the lead guitar's character on this track.
  • Studio reverb (likely high-quality plate or hall) and delay were crucial in creating the song's grand, atmospheric sound.
  • Solos were meticulously crafted, likely involving multiple takes and potentially layered guitar parts for richness.
  • The guitar was likely close-miked with an SM57, possibly blended with a condenser or ribbon mic for more air.

Recreation Tips

  • Start with a Les Paul-style guitar on the neck pickup.
  • Use a Marshall-style amplifier (like a Silver Jubilee or JCM800) with gain set high (e.g., 7-9) but master volume adjusted for desired output. Focus on smooth sustain.
  • Employ a chorus pedal with moderate rate and depth to achieve the signature shimmer; don't overdo it.
  • Add a digital or analog delay, set for a single repeat or subtle ambience (e.g., 300-450ms, mix level around 15-25%).
  • Use a graphic EQ pedal to boost midrange frequencies (around 800Hz - 1.6kHz) and possibly tame excessive highs for a smoother tone.
  • Practice Slash's signature wide vibrato, expressive bends, and melodic phrasing.

Sources