what guitar does lindsey buckingham play

2 min read 16-01-2025

what guitar does lindsey buckingham play

Lindsey Buckingham's instantly recognizable guitar tone is as much a part of Fleetwood Mac's sound as Stevie Nicks' ethereal vocals. But what guitars are responsible for that signature sound? It's not as simple as one specific model. Over his decades-long career, Buckingham has favored a variety of instruments, each contributing to his unique playing style. This article will explore some of his most iconic guitars.

Buckingham's Mainstays: The Guitars You'll Hear Most Often

While Buckingham has played many guitars throughout his career, several stand out as key instruments in his sound:

1. The 1959 ES-335

This is arguably Buckingham's most famous guitar. His cherry-red 1959 Gibson ES-335 is a staple in his live performances and studio recordings. Its warm, semi-hollow tone provides the foundation for many of Fleetwood Mac's biggest hits, like "Go Your Own Way." The ES-335's versatility allows for both clean and overdriven tones, contributing to Buckingham's dynamic playing.

Iconic Songs: "Go Your Own Way," "Landslide," "Tusk"

2. Various Fender Stratocasters

Buckingham isn't solely reliant on Gibson guitars. He frequently utilizes Fender Stratocasters, often customized to his specifications. These guitars offer a brighter, more articulate tone than the ES-335, perfect for his intricate fingerpicking and soaring leads. He's been seen using both vintage and modern Strats, showcasing his adaptability.

Iconic Songs: "Seven Wonders," "Silver Springs," "I'm So Afraid"

3. Gibson Les Pauls

While perhaps less prevalent than his ES-335 and Stratocasters, Buckingham has also employed Gibson Les Pauls throughout his career. These guitars contribute a thicker, more powerful tone to his sound. The Les Paul's sustain and ability to handle high-gain settings are ideal for heavier rock passages.

Iconic Songs: Various songs showcasing heavier rock influences within his solo work and Fleetwood Mac's catalog.

Beyond the Big Names: Exploring Buckingham's Diverse Arsenal

Buckingham’s approach to guitar playing and tone is remarkably diverse. He's not known for brand loyalty, instead choosing instruments based on their sonic qualities. This has led to him using a wide range of other guitars, including:

Gretsch guitars: Known for their bright, twangy tones, perfect for certain rhythmic styles.
Rickenbacker guitars: Often used for a unique, punchy tone.
Various custom-built guitars: Buckingham has collaborated with luthiers to create instruments tailored to his specific needs.

The Lindsey Buckingham Sound: More Than Just the Guitar

It's important to remember that Buckingham's iconic sound isn't solely derived from the guitars themselves. His unique playing style, innovative techniques (like his renowned harmonic layering), and effects pedals (like his extensive use of delay and chorus) all contribute to his distinctive tone.

The specific guitars he uses serve as the foundation, but his skill and creativity are the true architects of the sound.

Conclusion: An Eclectic Collection for an Eclectic Player

Lindsey Buckingham's guitar choices reflect his eclectic musical style and adventurous approach to songwriting. While his 1959 ES-335 and various Stratocasters are certainly the most prominent, his diverse collection demonstrates his dedication to finding the right instrument for the right job. His overall sound remains iconic and inimitable, proving that great tone comes from a combination of the instrument and the musician behind it.