rhythm guitar from “i want you (she's so heavy)” by the beatles | ToneDB
i want you (she's so heavy)
the beatles
rhythm guitar
Tone Profile
Abrasive and heavy rhythm guitar tone, characterized by its thick, slightly fuzzy distortion and droning sustain. It provides a solid harmonic foundation and rhythmic drive to the song.
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The Story
John Lennon's rhythm guitar on "I Want You (She's So Heavy)" was recorded at Trident Studios using a Gibson Les Paul through a Vox UL730 amplifier, captured with a Neumann U67 microphone. The track features multiple layered guitar parts to create the song's characteristic thick, fuzzy distortion and sustained drone that anchors the heavy arrangement.
Production Credits
Producer: George Martin
Engineer: Geoff Emerick
Recorded at: Trident Studios
Signal Chain
Instrument: Gibson Les PaulShop on Reverb
Microphone: Neumann U67Shop on Reverb
Recreation Tips
- Start with a Les Paul-style guitar into a Vox-style amplifier.
- Experiment with different fuzz and overdrive pedals to achieve the desired level of saturation and sustain.
- Double-track the guitar parts and pan them slightly to create a wider stereo image.
Original Gear
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Substitutions & Recommendations
Alternative to: Gibson Les Paul
Provides the humbucker pickup warmth and sustain of a Les Paul at a budget-friendly price point
Alternative to: Vox UL730 amplifier
Modern Vox amp with the same EL84 tube character and chime that defines the Vox sound from this era
Alternative to: Vox UL730 amplifier
Digital recreation of classic Vox amp tones with the convenience of studio recording and consistent results
Alternative to: Heavy fuzz distortion effect
Classic fuzz pedal that delivers the thick, sustained distortion needed for this heavy Beatles tone
Alternative to: Neumann U67 microphone
Large diaphragm tube condenser that captures the warmth and detail of vintage microphones on guitar amps
Frequently Asked Questions
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