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lead guitar from “gimme shelter” by the rolling stones | ToneDB

gimme shelter

the rolling stones

lead guitar

85% ai confidence

Tone Profile

A haunting, trebly lead tone defined by a distinctive, pulsing tremolo and a raw, slightly overdriven edge. It cuts through with a menacing yet melancholic quality, perfectly embodying the song's apocalyptic atmosphere.

Signal Chain

Instrument: Maton MS500 Mastersound electric guitar

Amp: Selmer Zodiac Twin 50 amplifier (or Fender Twin Reverb)

Microphone: Neumann U67 (or similar condenser like U87, or dynamic like Shure SM57)

Processing: Onboard guitar tremolo (from Maton MS500), Studio plate reverb (added during mixing)

Other: The guitar's unique tremolo circuit is the defining characteristic. Amp set for slight breakup, emphasizing treble frequencies. Likely close-mic'd with minimal room sound in the primary guitar track.

Recording Notes

  • Recorded at Olympic Sound Studios, London, primarily in October/November 1969 for the 'Let It Bleed' album.
  • Keith Richards played the iconic lead guitar parts, including the intro and fills.
  • The distinctive tremolo effect is central to the guitar's character, widely believed to originate from a Maton MS500 guitar borrowed by Richards, which had a built-in tremolo.
  • Engineered by Glyn Johns, known for his impactful and direct rock recording techniques.
  • Merry Clayton's powerful guest vocals, recorded in a late-night session, contribute significantly to the song's intensity.

Recreation Tips

  • Use a guitar with bright pickups (e.g., Telecaster bridge, Filter'Trons, or clear PAF-style humbuckers).
  • The key is a choppy, fairly fast tremolo effect; a square-wave tremolo pedal often gets closer than a smoother sine-wave. Experiment with depth and speed to match the song's pulse.
  • Aim for a clean tube amp (Fender, Selmer, or Vox-style) pushed to the edge of breakup, or use a very light overdrive pedal for grit.
  • A touch of spring or plate-style reverb will enhance the vintage feel without washing out the tone.
  • Don't be afraid to make the tone quite trebly to cut through the mix, mirroring the original's bite.
  • Experiment with pick attack; a slightly aggressive, percussive attack can enhance the grit and articulation of the tremolo effect.

Sources