Electric guitar

Definition

The electric guitar is a musical instrument that uses electronic pickups to convert the vibration of its strings into electrical signals, which can then be amplified and processed. This instrument became a defining feature of rock and pop music in the mid-20th century, contributing to the genre's distinct sound and energy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The electric guitar was first developed in the 1930s, with significant innovations coming from companies like Gibson and Fender.
2. The instrument gained immense popularity in the 1950s and 1960s, becoming synonymous with rock music through artists like Chuck Berry and Jimi Hendrix.
3. Electric guitars can have various body shapes and pickup configurations, affecting their tone and playability.
4. Fender Stratocaster and Gibson Les Paul are two iconic electric guitar models that have had a lasting impact on rock music.
5. The versatility of the electric guitar allows it to be used across many genres, including jazz, blues, country, and metal, showcasing its wide-ranging influence.

Review Questions

• How did the invention of the electric guitar change the sound and performance style of rock music?
  • The invention of the electric guitar revolutionized rock music by allowing for louder volume levels, greater sustain, and a wide range of effects. With electronic amplification, musicians could perform in larger venues without losing sound quality. This shift not only changed how music was created but also influenced performance styles, leading to more dynamic and expressive guitar solos that became central to rock's identity.
• Compare and contrast the electric guitar with the acoustic guitar in terms of their construction, sound production, and typical usage in music genres.
  • The electric guitar differs significantly from the acoustic guitar in construction and sound production. Electric guitars use electronic pickups to convert string vibrations into electrical signals, while acoustic guitars rely on their hollow bodies to amplify sound naturally. In terms of usage, electric guitars dominate genres like rock and pop due to their versatility and ability to incorporate various effects, while acoustic guitars are more common in folk and classical music for their warm, organic sound.
• Evaluate the cultural impact of the electric guitar on youth culture during the 20th century, particularly in relation to social movements and musical revolutions.
  • The electric guitar played a pivotal role in shaping youth culture during the 20th century, becoming a symbol of rebellion and freedom. As rock music emerged as a voice for social change in the 1960s, artists used the electric guitar to express defiance against societal norms. This cultural significance extended beyond music; it influenced fashion, lifestyle choices, and even political movements. The iconic status of electric guitarists like Jimi Hendrix highlighted its power as an instrument of change and identity for generations.

Related terms

Amplifier: A device that increases the strength of audio signals, allowing the sound from an electric guitar to be projected loudly and clearly.

Distortion: An effect that alters the sound of an electric guitar by adding harmonic overtones and altering the tone, often used in rock music to create a gritty or aggressive sound.

Solid Body: A type of electric guitar that has a solid wooden body, which minimizes feedback and allows for greater sustain and resonance compared to hollow body guitars.