John Cipollina remains a celebrated figure in the history of rock guitar, renowned for his innovative and instantly recognizable sound with Quicksilver Messenger Service. This insightful interview, conducted in 1985, delves into the mind of Cipollina, revealing his deep-rooted influences and shedding light on the guitarists who shaped his distinctive style. Among these formative figures, Link Wray stands out as a monumental inspiration, a pioneer whose raw power and rebellious spirit resonated deeply with Cipollina.
The Blues Foundation and Early Influences
Cipollina’s musical journey was firmly grounded in the blues. He recounts playing in blues societies, a unique experience that contrasted sharply with later fame. These were intimate, academic settings where audiences intently absorbed every note, engaging in question and answer sessions instead of clamoring for encores. This early immersion in the blues, listening to giants like Howlin’ Wolf, Muddy Waters, and Robert Johnson, laid the groundwork for his guitar approach. He also mentions Leadbelly, indicating a broad appreciation for the spectrum of blues traditions.
Link Wray: A Guiding Light for Cipollina’s Guitar
When asked about his major influences, Cipollina immediately and emphatically names Link Wray. He describes Wray not just as an influence, but as a “main, major influence,” elevating him to a position of paramount importance in his musical development. His admiration was so profound that he considered himself one of Wray’s “biggest fans.” This wasn’t just passive fandom; Wray’s music actively shaped Cipollina’s own guitar playing.
The impact of Link Wray’s “Rumble” on Cipollina was transformative. Hearing it in 1958 was a pivotal moment, burning itself into his mind. It wasn’t just the music, but the raw, rebellious attitude conveyed through Wray’s guitar. Cipollina recognized the revolutionary nature of “Rumble,” identifying Wray as “the father of the power chord.” This raw, untamed sound resonated with Cipollina’s own artistic sensibilities.
Cipollina’s fascination with Wray extended beyond the music to his image. He describes Wray’s stage presence – black leather jacket, greased-back hair, shades – as “offensive” and “phallic,” in a way that was captivating and rebellious. This visual and sonic package was a powerful draw for the young Cipollina, who was then gravitating towards a “beatnik” ethos, drawn to jazz and a more counter-cultural scene.
Meeting a Guitar Hero: Cipollina and Link Wray’s Connection
Cipollina’s admiration for Link Wray culminated in a personal connection. He recounts searching for a guitar like Wray’s for a decade, willing to “pay any price.” This pursuit highlights the depth of his dedication to Wray’s aesthetic. When he finally met Wray, Cipollina was initially intimidated, “scared to death,” viewing him as a larger-than-life figure. However, he soon discovered Wray was “just one of the guys,” a down-to-earth musician.
In a remarkable act of generosity and fandom, Cipollina even gifted Link Wray a red SG guitar. This anecdote underscores the genuine respect and admiration Cipollina held for his idol. He also invited Wray to his studio, hoping to collaborate and help Wray assemble a band. Cipollina recognized Wray’s immense knowledge of rock and roll history, describing him as a “walking encyclopedia.” He lamented that someone should sit down with Wray and record his stories, recognizing his historical significance.
Surf Rock and Dick Dale: A Different Kind of Guitar Influence
While deeply influenced by the blues and Link Wray’s raw power, Cipollina had a more nuanced perspective on surf rock and guitarists like Dick Dale. He appreciated Dale’s musicianship, particularly during the surf era, but admitted to being “anti-surf” at the time. This was due to surf music’s association with a “collegiate” and perhaps less rebellious image, in contrast to the raw energy of Link Wray or the social commentary of folk music. Cipollina’s beatnik sensibilities aligned more with jazz and the rebellious undercurrents of early rock and roll.
Cipollina’s Enduring Guitar Legacy
John Cipollina’s guitar playing, characterized by its unique vibrato, sustain, and psychedelic textures, is instantly recognizable. His work with Quicksilver Messenger Service helped define the San Francisco sound and left an indelible mark on rock music. While his style is uniquely his own, this interview reveals the foundational role of blues and, crucially, the profound impact of Link Wray. Wray’s rebellious spirit, pioneering use of power chords, and raw guitar sound served as a vital catalyst in shaping Cipollina’s own iconic guitar voice, ensuring that the legacy of “Rumble” echoed through the innovative sounds of San Francisco rock.
