Tig Machine AC DC, the Gibson SG model, has captivated the world of rock music with its distinctive design and sonic prowess. As a testament to its enduring legacy, the Gibson SG has become synonymous with the Australian hard rock band AC/DC’s signature sound.
The Gibson SG model has been a cornerstone of AC/DC’s musical landscape, with Angus Young’s energetic stage presence and inimitable playing style elevating the instrument to an iconic status. Beyond its visual appeal, the Gibson SG’s rich, full-bodied sound has been a major contributor to the band’s enduring success.
Throughout their storied career, AC/DC’s musicians have employed various electric guitars, each imparting a unique flavor to their music. Nevertheless, the Gibson SG’s unique tonal characteristics and playability have secured its position as the band’s primary instrument.
AC/DC’s History with the Gibson SG “Tig Machine”
AC/DC has had a strong history with the Gibson SG, particularly with the “Tig Machine” model. The SG has become one of the most distinctive and recognizable electric guitars in rock music history, known for its sleek, angular design and powerful sound.
The Gibson SG: A Rock Music Icon
The Gibson SG was designed in the late 1950s by Gibson’s legendary luthier, Gary Lamb. Lamb’s design aimed to create a guitar that could compete with the more popular solid-body Fender models of the time. The SG was initially released in 1961 as the “Explorer” but was later replaced by the SG model due to production challenges. The SG would go on to become a staple in rock music, popularized by bands like AC/DC, The Stooges, and Stevie Ray Vaughan.
Notable Gibson SG Models and Their Association with Famous Musicians
Here’s a timeline of notable Gibson SG models and their association with famous musicians:
- The SG Standard (1961) – This was the first production SG model, and it’s where the iconic shape originated. Bands like AC/DC, The Stooges, and The White Stripes popularized this model.
- The SG Custom (1963) – Designed for the high-end market, this model features exotic hardwoods and intricate inlays. Musicians like Angus Young (AC/DC) and Stevie Ray Vaughan have been known to play the Custom.
- The SG Heritage (1962) – This model was designed to be a more affordable SG option, featuring a mahogany neck and ebony fingerboard. Musicians like Joe Perry (Aerosmith) and Dave Grohl (Foo Fighters) have played the Heritage.
- The SG Classic (1997) – A modern reissue of the original SG, this model features a mahogany body and a rosewood fingerboard. Musicians like Angus Young and Stevie Ray Vaughan have played the Classic.
Other Electric Guitars Played by AC/DC Members
AC/DC members have played a variety of electric guitars throughout their careers, but Angus Young has consistently been associated with the Gibson SG. Other notable guitars have included:
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Angus Young – Fender Telecaster: Angus has been known to play a 1961 Gibson Les Paul, but also occasionally played a Telecaster to achieve a more country-toned sound.
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Malcolm Young – Gibson Les Paul: Malcom played a 1968 Gibson Les Paul and a 1959 Les Paul before settling on the SG.
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Brian Johnson – Fender Telecaster, Stratocaster: Brian occasionally played Fender guitars in the studio and on live stage.
Design and Features of the Gibson SG “Tig Machine”
The Gibson SG “Tig Machine” is a custom-made SG model for AC/DC lead guitarist Angus Young, known for its bold design and unique features. This guitar has been a staple of Angus’ performances and recordings, contributing to the band’s signature sound.
Unique Features of the Gibson SG “Tig Machine”
The Gibson SG “Tig Machine” boasts several distinctive features that set it apart from other SG models. Firstly, its black and silver paint job gives it a sleek, aggressive appearance, perfect for the stage. The guitar’s body shape, with its pointed horns and beveled edges, allows for easy playing and a comfortable fit in Angus’ hands. The “Tig Machine” also features a unique bridge design, which provides additional stability and sustain to the guitar’s sound.
- This guitar was designed in collaboration with Gibson Custom Shop, and has been used in various iconic songs, such as “Thunderstruck” and “Money Talks”.
- Its unique body shape and bridge design allow for enhanced sustain and playability, making it easier for Angus to play complex riffs and solos.
- The “Tig Machine” is also notable for its use of a Maestro vibrato system, providing a wide range of tonal expression and flexibility.
Tonewood and Sound Quality
The Gibson SG “Tig Machine” features a mahogany neck and a mahogany body, which provides a rich, warm, and full-bodied sound. The use of mahogany tonewood gives the guitar its distinctive warmth and sustain, perfect for AC/DC’s heavy riffs and Angus’ scorching solos. The mahogany body also helps to reduce feedback and sustain, allowing the guitar to cut through in loud mixes.
- Mahogany tonewood is known for its warm and balanced sound, making it a popular choice for guitar makers.
- The mahogany neck and body of the “Tig Machine” provide added sustain and warmth, perfect for heavy, distorted riffs and soaring solos.
- The mahogany body also helps to reduce feedback, allowing the guitar to cut through in loud mixes and maintaining its clarity.
Playability and Setup
The Gibson SG “Tig Machine” is designed for comfort and playability, with a contoured body shape that fits snugly in Angus’ hands. The guitar’s 22-fret rosewood fretboard provides added grip and stability, allowing for smooth playing and accurate bends. The “Tig Machine” also features a pair of humbucking pickups, which provide a wide range of tonal expression and reduced hum.
- The contoured body shape of the “Tig Machine” provides a comfortable playing experience, allowing Angus to focus on his performance.
- The 22-fret rosewood fretboard provides added grip and stability, allowing for smooth playing and accurate bends.
- The humbucking pickups of the “Tig Machine” provide a wide range of tonal expression and reduced hum, making it perfect for heavy riffs and soaring solos.
AC/DC’s Music Featuring the Gibson SG “Tig Machine”
AC/DC’s music has always been associated with raw, hard-hitting riffs and face-melting solos, and the Gibson SG “Tig Machine” is a key contributor to this sound. The SG “Tig Machine” has been a staple of the band’s live shows and recordings since its introduction in the late 1970s, and its unique tone and playability have helped shape the sound of some of AC/DC’s most iconic songs and albums.
Iconic Songs Featuring the Gibson SG “Tig Machine”, Tig machine ac dc
The Gibson SG “Tig Machine” has been featured on numerous AC/DC classics, including “Highway to Hell”, “Back in Black”, and “For Those About to Rock We Salute You”. These albums and songs showcases the SG “Tig Machine’s” distinctive sound and the way it has been pushed to its limits by Angus Young and Malcolm Young. One notable example is the iconic riff in “Hells Bells”, a song that features a pounding drumbeat and Angus Young’s blistering SG “Tig Machine”-driven riffs.
- “Highway to Hell” (1979) – This album marks a pivotal point in AC/DC’s career, with the Gibson SG “Tig Machine” providing a new level of sonic punch to their sound. Classics like “Highway to Hell” and “Girls Got Rhythm” showcase the SG’s unique tone and Angus Young’s skillful playing.
- “Back in Black” (1980) – Arguably one of the greatest albums of all time, “Back in Black” sees the Gibson SG “Tig Machine” at the forefront of AC/DC’s sound. Riffs like in “You Shook Me All Night Long” and “Hells Bells” are still widely regarded as some of the band’s greatest.
- “For Those About to Rock We Salute You” (1981) – Another classic AC/DC album, this one sees the Gibson SG “Tig Machine” driving the band’s sound to new heights. Tracks like the title track and “Let’s Get It Up” feature some of the most memorable riffs and guitar solos in AC/DC history.
How the Gibson SG “Tig Machine” Contributes to AC/DC’s Sound
The Gibson SG “Tig Machine” is a guitar unlike any other, with its unique design and tone setting it apart from other instruments. Its thin, mahogany body and distinctive shape make it ideal for rock music’s high-energy, overdriven sound, and its pickup configuration provides a rich, full sound that cuts through even the most driving rhythms. Angus Young’s skillful playing style, which involves a lot of aggressive, forceful strumming and picking, helps bring the Gibson SG “Tig Machine” to life with an incredible level of power and expression.
Guitar Riffs and Solos Played by AC/DC Members
The Gibson SG “Tig Machine” has been Angus Young’s go-to guitar for many years, with the Australian guitar legend often using it to create face-melting riffs and solos in AC/DC’s live shows and recordings. Some of the most iconic riffs in AC/DC’s history, such as those in “Highway to Hell” and “Hells Bells”, were all played on the Gibson SG “Tig Machine”.
- Angus Young’s Riff in “Hells Bells” – This classic riff, which has been widely imitated but never replicated, is a testament to the Gibson SG “Tig Machine’s” incredible power and versatility. Angus Young’s masterful playing and the SG “Tig Machine’s” distinctive tone make this one of the most recognizable riffs in rock music.
- Malcolm Young’s Riff in “For Those About to Rock We Salute You” – Malcolm Young’s simple but effective riff on the title track of this album showcases the Gibson SG “Tig Machine’s” ability to create memorable, hummable melodies with ease.
Guitarists Influenced by Angus Young’s Gibson SG “Tig Machine”
Angus Young’s signature Gibson SG “Tig Machine” has been a staple of rock ‘n’ roll, inspiring countless guitarists around the world. The raw, gritty sound and distinctive shape of the SG have made it a favorite among many rock musicians. From iconic bands to solo artists, we’re about to dive into the world of guitarists who’ve been influenced by Angus Young’s playing style and the Gibson SG.
Notable Guitarists Influenced by Angus Young
Some notable guitarists who’ve been influenced by Angus Young’s playing style and the Gibson SG include:
* Brian May of Queen: Known for his innovative use of guitar effects and his iconic 1959 Les Paul, Brian May has often been compared to Angus Young for his energetic stage presence and virtuosic guitar playing.
* Slash of Guns N’ Roses: With his top hat and sunglasses, Slash has become synonymous with rock ‘n’ roll. His use of the Gibson SG to create the iconic sound of Guns N’ Roses is a testament to the influence of Angus Young on modern rock music.
* Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath: As the godfather of heavy metal, Tony Iommi has been a major influence on the development of heavy metal music. His use of downtuned guitars and heavy distortion has been cited as an inspiration by many, including Angus Young himself.
Guitar-Driven Songs and Bands that Pay Homage to AC/DC’s Iconic Sound
Several guitar-driven songs and bands have been influenced by AC/DC’s iconic sound, including:
* The White Stripes’ “Seven Nation Army”: With its infectious guitar riff and driving beat, this song is a modern take on the classic AC/DC sound.
* The Black Keys’ “Lonely Boy”: This song’s gritty guitar sound and driving beat are reminiscent of AC/DC’s raw, high-energy sound.
* Wolfmother’s “Woman”: This song’s guitar riff and vocal style are heavily influenced by Angus Young’s playing style and the AC/DC sound.
Musicians Who Have Covered or Referenced AC/DC Songs in Their Own Music
Many musicians have covered or referenced AC/DC songs in their own music, including:
The Rolling Stones have covered “Whole Lotta Rosie” in their live shows, putting a bluesy spin on the AC/DC classic.
* Foo Fighters have covered “Whole Lotta Rosie” in their live shows, featuring Dave Grohl’s powerful vocals and energetic stage presence.
* Guns N’ Roses have referenced AC/DC’s “Highway to Hell” in their song “Sympathy for the Devil”, with Slash’s guitar playing and Axl Rose’s vocals paying homage to the classic song.
* Motorhead have covered “Whole Lotta Rosie” in their live shows, featuring Lemmy Kilmister’s signature bassline and Phil “Philthy Animal” Taylor’s pounding drums.
Classic Rock Bands that Have Influenced Modern Music
Several classic rock bands have influenced modern music, including:
* Led Zeppelin: This iconic rock band has influenced countless musicians, including Angus Young and the members of AC/DC.
* The Rolling Stones: As one of the most influential rock bands of all time, The Rolling Stones have inspired many musicians, including those mentioned above.
* The Who: This British rock band has influenced countless musicians with their powerful live performances and innovative use of guitar effects.
Visuals and Imagery Associated with the Gibson SG “Tig Machine”
The Gibson SG “Tig Machine” is an iconic guitar that has been an integral part of AC/DC’s visual identity. Its distinctive design has been featured prominently in various promotional materials, from album covers to live performances. The guitar’s bold, angular lines and menacing aesthetic have come to symbolize the band’s hard-rocking sound and stage presence.
Distinctive Visual Style and Appearance
The Gibson SG “Tig Machine” has a rugged, aggressive appearance that sets it apart from other guitars. Its beveled edges and pointed tailpiece give it a menacing look that’s both intimidating and mesmerizing. The guitar’s various finishes, including black, red, and silver, have been showcased in numerous promotions and live performances, cementing its status as a rock ‘n’ roll icon.
In AC/DC’s early days, the Gibson SG “Tig Machine” was often seen with Angus Young’s signature schoolboy uniform, adding to the guitar’s visual shock value. The guitar’s bold appearance has been immortalized in album covers, music videos, and live performances, making it an instantly recognizable symbol of rock ‘n’ roll.
High-Quality Images and Descriptions
The Gibson SG “Tig Machine” has been featured in numerous high-quality images showcasing its sleek design and menacing aesthetic. Here’s a description of the guitar’s various finishes and hardware:
– Black: The Gibson SG “Tig Machine” in black is a sleek, menacing instrument with a glossy finish that seems to absorb the light around it. Its black finish provides a solid backdrop for the guitar’s intricate body and headstock designs.
– Red: The Gibson SG “Tig Machine” in red is a bright, fiery instrument that’s almost impossible to miss. Its red finish is bold and eye-catching, with a glossy sheen that adds to its menacing appearance.
– Silver: The Gibson SG “Tig Machine” in silver is a sleek, metallic instrument that’s perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to AC/DC’s live performances. Its silver finish provides a solid backdrop for the guitar’s intricate body and headstock designs.
All versions of the Gibson SG “Tig Machine” feature a bold, angular design language that’s both aggressive and mesmerizing. Its beveled edges and pointed tailpiece give it a menacing look that’s both intimidating and mesmerizing.
Comparison with Other Iconic Guitars
Here’s a comparison of the Gibson SG “Tig Machine” with other iconic guitars in rock music history:
| Instrument | Designer | Introduced | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gibson SG | Les Paul | 1961 | The Gibson SG “Tig Machine” is a variant of the iconic Gibson SG, known for its sleek design and menacing aesthetic. |
| Fender Stratocaster | Leo Fender | 1954 | The Fender Stratocaster is a versatile, pioneering guitar that’s known for its smooth sound and sleek design. |
| Gibson Les Paul | Les Paul | 1952 | The Gibson Les Paul is a classic, iconic guitar that’s known for its rich, full sound and elegant design. |
| Martin D-28 | C.F. Martin & Company | 1931 | The Martin D-28 is a legendary acoustic guitar that’s known for its rich, full sound and sleek design. |
Care and Maintenance of the Gibson SG “Tig Machine”
Maintaining your Gibson SG “Tig Machine” is crucial to ensure it continues to produce that iconic sound. Think of it like lookin’ after your trusty steed, mate. If you neglect it, it’ll start to sound like a dodgy, worn-out old riffer (not that you’d ever let that happen, innit?). So, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of keepin’ your axe in tip-top shape.
Why Proper Guitar Maintenance is Essential
You see, a well-maintained guitar is like a finely-tuned machine (hence the ‘Tig Machine’ nickname, mate!). When all the parts are in proper working order, you’ll be able to produce a more balanced sound. If things get out of whack, it’s like tryin’ to drive a clapped-out old van – you’ll be lucky if it gets you from A to B, let alone deliver the goods on stage or in the studio.
So, what’s the big deal? Well, mate, when your guitar’s all clean and adjusted, it’s like a breath of fresh air for your ears. You’ll be able to pick out subtle nuances in your playing that’d be drowned out by a mangled, out-of-tune mess.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning and Maintaining the Gibson SG “Tig Machine”‘s Finish and Hardware
Now that we’ve got the importance out of the way, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of actually keepin’ your ‘Tig Machine’ spick and span.
Cleaning the Finish
Gently wipe down your guitar’s body and neck with a soft, dry cloth to remove any surface grime. Don’t use any harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, or you’ll end up ruinin’ the finish. For tougher stains or grime, dampen a cloth with distilled water (no tap water, mate – it’s got minerals and all that jazz). Use a clean, soft-bristled brush to get into any nooks and crannies.
Hardware Maintenance
Give your tremolo arm, bridge, and strap pins a good ol’ clean with a damp cloth. Wipe down your pickguard with a soft cloth and a small amount of guitar-specific polish. Make sure everything’s tightened up proper-like, and your guitar should be shipshape and Bristol fashion.
Adjusting and Upgrading the Electronic Components of the Gibson SG “Tig Machine”
Now we come to the bit where you get to tweak your ‘Tig Machine’ to your heart’s content. Remember, these are just general guidelines, and you should always refer to your guitar’s manual for specific instructions.
Tuning and String Replacement
Check your guitar’s tuning stability by pluckin’ the strings and adjustin’ the bridge as needed. For string replacement, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cuttin’ and installin’ new strings.
Tone Tweaks and Upgrade
Consult the manual for specific adjustments and modifications. If you’re feelin’ adventurous, you can try swappin’ out your pickups for different models or experimentin’ with custom wiring.
Electronic Component Inspection and Cleaning
Use a multimeter to check your pickups and potentiometers for any signs of wear or damage. Clean your switch and potentiometers with a soft cloth and a small amount of guitar-specific polish. Don’t be afraid to replace any worn-out or faulty components if need be.
Conclusion (or rather, the next step)
There you have it, mate – a step-by-step guide to keepin’ your Gibson SG “Tig Machine” in top nick. Remember, regular maintenance is key to ensurein’ your guitar stays in top working order. Keep it clean, keep it adjusted, and you’ll be rockin’ out like a boss in no time!
Last Word
In conclusion, the Tig Machine AC DC, or Gibson SG, is an integral component of AC/DC’s sonic landscape, imbuing their music with a unique blend of crunch and finesse. This iconic guitar has become an enduring symbol of rock music’s most iconic moments, with its distinctive design and rich sound inspiring countless musicians worldwide.
FAQ Corner: Tig Machine Ac Dc
What is the Gibson SG model?
The Gibson SG is a solid-body electric guitar produced by Gibson Guitar Corporation, renowned for its distinctive shape and versatility in the world of rock music.
How does the Gibson SG contribute to AC/DC’s sound?
The Gibson SG’s unique tonewood and electronics configuration, combined with Angus Young’s energetic playing style, have contributed to AC/DC’s distinctive sound, characterized by crunch and finesse.
What other electric guitars have AC/DC members played throughout their careers?
AC/DC’s musicians have experimented with various electric guitars, including Fender Stratocasters and Gibson Les Pauls, in addition to the Gibson SG.
Who are some notable guitarists influenced by Angus Young’s playing style?
Musicians such as Eddie Van Halen and Slash have cited Angus Young as an inspiration, citing his dynamic stage presence and innovative playing style.
