Buck Owens was a one-of-a-kind singer and songwriter who left an indelible mark on country music. His unique sound, unmistakable voice, and powerful lyrics made him a favorite among fans of the genre. But did you know that Buck Owens was also an avid guitar player? He played several instruments over the course of his career, but one, in particular, has gained a reputation as a legendary instrument: his acoustic guitar. In this post, we will review Buck Owens’ acoustic guitar and explore why it has become such an iconic piece of country music history.
Buck Owens’ acoustic guitar was a Gibson J-200, a model that has been used by many famous musicians over the years. What makes this particular guitar special is that Owens played it during his most popular recordings, including his hits “Act Naturally,” “Together Again,” and “I’ve Got a Tiger by the Tail.” The guitar is known for its distinctive sound, which is due in part to its large body size and the use of rosewood and spruce in its construction.
One of the most interesting things about Buck Owens’ guitar is that it has a Western-themed design. The headstock features a cactus and steers head, while the fingerboard is adorned with mother-of-pearl inlays of horseshoes and spurs. The pickguard is shaped like a sheriff’s badge, and the guitar is stamped with Buck Owens’ signature in gold ink. These features make for a truly unique and memorable instrument.
In addition to its visual appeal, Buck Owens’ acoustic guitar has a sound that is unmistakably country. It has a bright, clear tone that is well-suited to both fingerpicking and strumming. According to some sources, Owens tuned the guitar down half a step to give it a slightly lower and richer sound. This tuning, combined with his signature use of twangy Telecaster electric guitar solos, helped create the classic sound of his recordings.
Another interesting fact about Buck Owens’ acoustic guitar is that it was apparently lost for many years after he passed away in 2006. However, it was recently discovered in a storage locker and auctioned off for a substantial sum. The new owner has said that he plans to use it to record and play live, ensuring that its legacy continues for years to come.
Conclusion
Buck Owens was a beloved figure in country music, and his acoustic guitar has become a symbol of his legacy. Its unique design, distinctive sound, and place in music history have made it a highly sought-after instrument among musicians and collectors alike. Whether you’re a fan of Buck Owens’ music or simply love the sound of a great acoustic guitar, this instrument is truly something special.
FAQ
What tuning did Buck Owens use for his acoustic guitar?
Buck Owens reportedly tuned his acoustic guitar down half a step to give it a slightly lower and richer sound.
Where can I find Buck Owens’ acoustic guitar?
The original Gibson J-200 has not been in circulation since 2006 when it was auctioned off after Owens’ death. However, there are replicas of the instrument available for purchase.
What makes Buck Owens’ acoustic guitar so iconic?
The combination of its visual appeal, distinctive sound, and place in country music history have all contributed to its legendary status. Its unique design featuring a cactus and steer head, mother-of-pearl inlays of horseshoes and spurs, and a sheriff’s badge pickguard are all iconic features. Additionally, the guitar was used for many of Owens’ most famous recordings.
What is the best way to play Buck Owens’ acoustic guitar?
The Gibson J-200 is well-suited to both fingerpicking and strumming, so it can be used in a variety of ways. To get the most authentic sound, however, it is best to use twangy Telecaster electric guitar solos and tune down half a step. This was the tuning that Owens used for his recordings.
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