lead guitar from “american girl” by tom petty and the heartbreakers | ToneDB

american girl

tom petty and the heartbreakers

lead guitar

75% ai confidence

Tone Profile

The lead guitar tone is bright and jangly, with a slight overdrive that adds sustain and character. It’s a classic rock sound, reminiscent of the British Invasion but with an American twist.

Production Credits

Producer: Denny Cordell

Engineer: Noah Butkus

Recorded at: Sound City (Los Angeles, CA)

Signal Chain

Instrument: Rickenbacker 360

Amp: Vox AC30

Microphone: Neumann U67

Recording Notes

  • Mike Campbell, the guitarist, is known for using a Rickenbacker 360, which contributes to the jangly high-end.
  • The Vox AC30 is key to getting that bright, chimey overdrive.
  • The Neumann U67 is a versatile microphone, frequently used for electric guitars due to its balanced sound.

Recreation Tips

  • Start with a Rickenbacker 360 or similar guitar with bright pickups.
  • Use a Vox AC30 or an amp simulator that replicates its tone.
  • Add a touch of overdrive to the amp, just enough to get some sustain and bite.
  • Consider using a compressor to even out the dynamics and add sustain.
  • EQ the guitar to emphasize the high frequencies and reduce muddiness in the low end.

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