Both the Fender company and its arch-rivals Gibson have their lineup of accomplished players. While the boundaries have become less defined, historically, these companies have each carved out their unique sonic territories. The former has been known for its mastery of bright and treble-heavy tones. The latter has been the preferred choice for musicians seeking a heavier sound, thanks to the power and grit of their humbuckers. When it comes to Fender, their roster of musicians includes iconic names like Jeff Beck and Jimi Hendrix, who perfectly embody their brand. On the flip side, the industry recognizes Jimmy Page and Slash as two of the most influential guitarists.
Certainly, these names represent only a handful of players, but they provide a glimpse into the distinct sounds that both companies are renowned for. Focusing on Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash, he is widely recognized as a master of the fretboard. Particularly noteworthy is his iconic use of the Les Paul guitar. Slash’s skillful playing has resulted in numerous standout moments. Popular songs like ‘Sweet Child o’ Mine’, ‘Welcome to the Jungle’, and ‘Paradise City’ have achieved widespread success.
Despite rising to prominence in the late 1980s, Slash stands out as a captivating guitarist. His deep connection with the classic rock legends who influenced him during his childhood sets him apart. Early in his career, people frequently linked him to hair-metal musicians. Despite his admiration for the energetic style of Beck, the Londoner found a profound artistic connection. He bonded with his fellow musicians who preferred Gibson guitars. Introduced to the world of rock by his parents, who were passionate about guitar music from the 1960s and ’70s. Slash quickly became inspired by the talent of numerous Les Paul enthusiasts.
With his Les Paul in hand, Slash aimed to recreate the iconic sound of legendary guitarists who inspired him. Using distortion and atmospheric effects like reverb and delay, he strived to create a powerful sound that could fill stadiums. Keith Richards, Billy Gibbons, and Eric Clapton were among the musicians who introduced him to the model’s powerful sound. However, none resonated with him quite like Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin.
The music world widely recognizes Page for his significant contribution to expanding the boundaries of rock music. He first developed his idea of immersive, mesmerizing sounds while performing with The Yardbirds. However, it was when he created Led Zeppelin from the remnants of the band that he truly honed and brought his vision to life. The transition from the blues-rock sound of the band’s early days is remarkable. Timeless tracks like ‘Stairway to Heaven‘, ‘Rain Song’, and ‘Kashmir’ attest to this evolution.
But for Slash, a single moment in Led Zeppelin’s ‘Whole Lotta Love’ from their 1969 album Led Zeppelin II, completely transformed his view of rock music. “I distinctly recall the moment when ‘Whole Lotta Love’ from Led Zeppelin II reached my ears at the tender age of seven,” he reminisced in an interview with Total Guitarist. “I associated that sound – from what I believed was the most amazing record I had ever heard at that time in my life – with the Les Paul…”I immediately recognized the unmistakable guitar tones as those of Les Paul. This association was solidified when I came across pictures of Jimmy Page effortlessly wielding one. It was clear to me that Les Paul was responsible for producing that specific sound.
Slash also acknowledged that his deep connection to the Les Paul guitar is inseparable from his time with Led Zeppelin. During his formative years, he dabbled with different types of guitars. Ultimately, he gravitated back to Gibson because of its exceptional tone. He has been using it consistently, creating moments that are on par with those of Page and Led Zeppelin in the instrument’s history.
