Carved for Sound: How the Acoustic Archtop Guitar Keeps Swinging
In this feature, we’ll trace the history of the acoustic archtop guitar—from its 19th-century origins and golden-era prominence to its postwar decline and modern-day revival.
Taj Mahal and Keb’ Mo’ Reunite to Channel Tradition, Tone, and Spirit into a Sound All Their Own
Our wide-ranging interview with the blues legends was a frequently funny call and response between Mo’ and his humble baritone and Mahal’s gravelly, cosmic perspectives.
ADVERTISEMENT
Learn to Strum and Sing Fats Wallers’ Classic “Ain’t Misbehavin’”
Penned in collaboration with composer Harry Brooks and lyricist Andy Razaf, the song made its debut in 1929 and was an instant sensation.
“When I’m Sixty-Four”—Learn a Fun, Hybrid-Picked Arrangement of This Time-Honored Beatles Tune
“When I’m Sixty-Four” makes a great guitar song—whether played with a pick, fingers, or hybrid style, as it’s arranged here.
How to Create a Solo Using Scale Notes and Chord Shapes
Even if you usually stick to rhythm playing, all you need to craft cool, musical solos are some straightforward ingredients that are right at your fingertips.
ADVERTISEMENT
Fingerstyle Blues Workout—Explore the Rhythmic Power and Melodic Potential of Dropped-D Tuning
We’ll begin by exploring how dropped-D shapes work on the I, IV, and V chords in the key of D, then build from there with ways to move through the full 12-bar form.
How to Play the Challenging and Rewarding Flatpicked Fiddle Tune ‘Daley’s Reel’
The arrangement presented here sits well on the guitar while intentionally retaining the playful rhythmic bounce of the melody.
Blending Folk, Jazz, and Gospel Influences in a Fresh Take on the Beloved Spiritual “Go Tell It on the Mountain”
This arrangement draws on both the joy of my early classroom memories and the song’s evolution into a broader message of renewal.
ADVERTISEMENT
Why You Don’t Need to Worry About Removing All Your Guitar’s Strings at Once
Never fear. Slacking all the strings at once is something every guitar technician needs to do every day.
Meet Jesse Welles, Fiery Folksinger on the Rise
Welles, 32, is a genuine phenomenon—an internet-era troubadour clearly in the tradition of Guthrie, Dylan, Prine, and Ochs (and Cobain, too), yet also very much of this moment.
Review: The Iris Guitar Company MS-00 Is a Custom-Made Boutique Flattop with Vintage Flair and High-End Tonewoods
The MS-00 is a guitar that’s straightforward, well-balanced, and built to be played, not pampered
ADVERTISEMENT
Yoga for Guitarists—Tune Your Body and Mind and Improve Your Playing Experience with These Five Simple Exercises
This brief practice can lead to improved skills, enhanced creativity and flow, and more enjoyable playing sessions
Americana Champion Margo Price Takes Flight with Her New Signature Gibson J-45
The Nashville singer-songwriter talks about her bond with her instruments, her songwriting philosophy, and more.
Great Acoustics: Barney Kessel’s Well-Worn 1931 Gibson L-5 Helped Score Hits by Ella Fitzgerald, Elvis, and Others
In July 1948, Kessel purchased this early Gibson L-5 from Smith and went on to use it for two decades of studio sessions.
Review: I’m With Her’s Acoustic Palette and Chamber-Folk Instincts Shine on ‘Wild and Clear and Blue’
The arrangements are rustic but current; the harmonies, tight but never smug, infuse the record with a sense of quiet inventiveness.
