Slash Guitar: The Iconic Sound and Style of a Rock Legend

Slash, born Saul Hudson, has cemented his place as a guitar icon over the last four decades. His raw, blues-infused rock guitar playing became instantly recognizable as the driving force behind Guns N’ Roses’ explosive rise to fame. From the groundbreaking album “Appetite for Destruction” to the ambitious “Use Your Illusion” double albums, Slash’s guitar work defined a generation of rock music. The pressures of fame eventually led to his departure from Guns N’ Roses, but Slash’s guitar journey was far from over. He quickly proved his versatility and staying power with successful projects like Slash’s Snakepit and Velvet Revolver, demonstrating that his musical talent extended far beyond one band.

Slash performing with his signature Les Paul guitar

Beyond his band endeavors, Slash’s guitar prowess has been sought after by a diverse range of artists. Born in London before moving to Los Angeles at age five, his worldly background perhaps contributed to his broad musical appeal. He has lent his signature guitar sound to albums by music giants such as Michael Jackson, Bob Dylan, Rihanna, and Paulina Rubio, showcasing his adaptability across genres. Even as he approaches 60, Slash remains a vital force in music. His reunion with Guns N’ Roses in 2016 was a monumental event for fans worldwide, and his recent 2024 blues album further proves his enduring passion and commitment to his craft.

Close-up of Slash's guitar strings and bridge

When it comes to achieving his legendary riffs and scorching solos, Slash Guitar tone is intrinsically linked to his choice of strings. He is a long-time devotee of Ernie Ball strings, primarily favoring Ernie Ball Regular Slinkies. These nickel-wound guitar strings, with their standard 10-13-17-26-36-46 gauges, are crucial to his signature sound. Occasionally, Slash opts for a custom Ernie Ball set with slightly heavier 11-14-18p-28-38-48 gauges, famously used on his iconic 1959 Gibson Les Paul replica. This slight increase in gauge provides a thicker tone and enhanced sustain, particularly beneficial for his powerful Les Paul sound.

Interestingly, Slash employs a unique stringing technique that contributes to his distinctive guitar playing feel. He inserts his strings into the bridge holes in reverse, away from the guitar neck, and then wraps them around before finally slotting them into place. In interviews, Slash has explained that this method, also used by guitar legend Jimmy Page, reduces string tension. This lower tension allows for easier string bending, a crucial element of Slash’s expressive guitar style, especially when using medium to heavy gauge strings. Furthermore, this technique is believed to enhance sustain, allowing notes to ring out longer, a hallmark of Slash’s soaring guitar solos.

To delve deeper into the world of Slash and his guitar, explore the links below to official resources and gear information.

Slash’s official website

Slash on Spotify

Slash on YouTube

Ernie Ball Regular Slinky Guitar Strings

Ernie Ball 2221 Nickel Regular Slinky Electric Guitar Strings 10-46