Sony (J-Rocks)

Name: Sony Ismail Robbayani
Born: Unknown

Profile: He is an Indonesian musician, better known for his guitar works in his current band, "J-Rocks" as a lead guitarist. He was known in the local guitar community since his band "J-RockStar" won a TV talent show - Nescafe Get Started in 2004.

History: Sony started to play guitar in his teens, mostly self-taught. Ever since he learned how to pick a guitar, he wanted to be a professional musician/guitarist as his idol; guitarist virtuoso Steve Vai and the legendary Jimi Hendrix.

In 2001, Sony went for an audition as a guitarist for a local band named, "Funky Kopral" (now known as "Funkop"), this is where he met up with future vocalist Iman, who gave Sony an idea to formed a Japanese genre band with him. Wima (bass) and Anton (drum) joined soon after, and "J-RockStar" was officially formed in 2003.

In 2004, "J-RockStar" (JRS) entered a TV musical talent show called 'Nescafe Get Started'. The band won at first place followed with two other great bands; "B-Five" and "Cool Khas". On the grand final concert of the talent show, "JRS" performed an adaptation music from Japanese rock band, "L'Arc~en~Ciel".

Soon after the talent show, "JRS" was offered a contract for a studio album under Aquarius Musik label, and their name was shortened from "J-RockStar" to "J-Rocks". Their debut, 'Topeng Sahabat' was released in 2005 and was sold for 450,000 copies only in Indonesia. The debut album was followed with two more albums, 'Spirit' (2007) and 'Road To Abbey' (2009). Though, Sony is still new in the music industry, he has impressively gain a lots of fans.

Influences: L'Arc~en~Ciel, Muse, Alicia Keys, The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Red Hot Chili Pepper, Siti Nurhaliza and Steve Vai

Axology: Marlique Deluxe series guitar, PRS guitar - SE Camouflage, Fender Telecaster, Radix guitars and Carvin Amplifiers

Signature song(s): Kau Curi Lagi - J-Rocks featuring Prisa (Spirit, 2007)

Link(s):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T_C05v1nYY0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3T-4d2ihp1Y

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BWzpnYc9ib0&feature=related

FENDER MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS CORPORATION

 

The company began as Fender's Radio Service in late 1938 in Fullerton, California, USA. As a qualified electronics technician, Clarence Leonidas 'Leo' Fender (owner) had been asked to repair not only radios, but phonograph players, home audio amplifiers, public address systems and musical instrument amplifiers. The business also sidelined in carrying records for sale and the rental of self-designed-and-built PA systems. Mr. Fender became intrigued by design flaws in current musical instrument amplifiers, and he began custom-building a few amplifiers based on his own designs or modifications to designs.

By the early 40's, he had partnered with another local electronics enthusiast named Clayton Orr 'Doc' Kauffman, and together they formed a company named K & F Manufacturing Corp. to design, manufacture and sell electric instruments and amplifiers. Production began in 1945 with Hawaiian lap steel guitars (incorporating a patented pickup) and amplifiers. By the end of the year, Mr. Fender had become convinced that manufacturing was more profitable than repair, and he decided to concentrate on that business. However, Kauffman remained unconvinced, and they had amicably parted ways in 1946. At that point Mr. Fender renamed the company to Fender Electric Instrument Company.

The first big series of amplifiers were built in 1948. These were known as tweed amps, because they were covered in the same kind of cloth used for luggage at the time. These amps varied in output from 3watts to 75watts. This period was one of innovation and changes for all amplifiers at that time.

An early Fender tweed amplifier, dated in the 50's, with some of its 'amplifier logos'.

In 1949,  the first Fender solid-body Spanish-style electric guitar, the 'Esquire' lasted (in name only) from June to October 1950. This model name was replaced by the 'Broadcaster', which lasted (in name only) from October 1950 to January 1951. The reason Fender change the 'Esquire' name was to introduced a two-pickup version, originally 'Esquire' only have one pickup at the bridge, while the 'Broadcaster' change its name because The Gretsch Company at the time marketed a drum set under the 'Broadkaster' name, and at their request Fender renamed it to 'Telecaster' or simply 'Tele'.

Telecaster family trees; far left - white guitar - is the Esquire guitar version, (notice it only had one pickup at the bridge), next to it - classic cream colour - is the Broadcaster guitar version (this model introduced two pickups; bridge and neck). Red colour guitar -  is the standard Telecaster guitar. And far right - sunburst colour -  is the Telecaster Thinline (introduced by German luthier Roger Rossmeisl in 1968) extra feature of the Thinline was the f-hole and the reshaped pickguard. All 'Broadcasters' model have truss rods, where many 'Esquires' often have no truss rod.

The first mass-produced electric bass was the 'Precision Bass' or P Bass; and the popular 'Stratocaster' or Strat guitar, soon after. While Fender was not the first to manufacture electric guitars, as other companies and luthiers had produced electric guitars since the late 1920's, none was as commercially successful as Fender's. Furthermore, while nearly all other electric guitars then were either hollow-body guitars. Fender had created versatile solid-body electric guitars. These guitars were and still are popular for musicians in a variety of genres.

In early 1965, Mr. Fender sold his companies to the Columbia Broadcasting System (CBS) for 13 million. CBS entered the musical instruments field by acquiring the Fender companies. The sale was taken as a positive development, considering CBS's ability to bring in money and personnel who acquired a large inventory of Fender parts and unassembled guitars that were assembled and put to market. However, the sale also led to a reduction of the quality of Fender's guitars while under the management of 'cost-cutting' CBS.

Several cosmetic changes occurred after 1965, such as a larger headstock shape on certain guitars. These cosmetic changes were followed by a new "tailless" Fender amp decal and a sparkling orange grillcloth on certain amplifiers in the mid 70's. However, for guitars, in the early 70's the usual four-bolt neck joint was changed to one using only three bolts, and a second string tree for the two middle (G and D) strings was added in late 1971. These changes were said to have been made to save money: While it suited the new 'improved' micro-tilt adjustment of the neck, the 'Bullet' truss-rod system, and a 5-way pickup selector on most models, it also resulted in a greater propensity toward mechanical failure of the guitars.

Another family of Fender guitars; Fender Jaguar, Fender Jazzmaster (have the same body design as Jaguar, with extra switches), Fender Mustang, Fender Jag-Stang (guitar design for Kurt Cobain "Nirvana")

During the CBS era, the company did introduce some new instrument and amplifier designs. The Fender 'Starcaster' was particularly unusual because of its semi-hollow body design, still retaining the Fender bolt-on neck, and a completely different headstock. The 'Starcaster' also incorporated a new humbucking pickup (P90). This pickup also gave rise to 3 new incarnations of the classic Telecaster. The CBS-era instruments are generally much less coveted or collectable than the pre-CBS models created by Leo Fender prior to selling the Fender companies to CBS in 1965. After selling the Fender company, Leo Fender founded Music Man in 1975, and later founded the G&L Musical Instruments company, which manufactures electric guitars and basses based on his later designs.

The company also makes and distributes acoustic guitars, mandolins, banjos, violins and PA equipments. Other Fender brands include Squier (entry level/budget), Guild (acoustic, electric guitars and amplifiers), SWR (bass amplification), Passport Tacoma, Jackson guitars, Charvel guitars, Gretsch guitars and collaborated with Eddie Van Halen to make the EVH guitars and amplifiers.

More about Fender Musical Instruments; check out their official website: http://www.fender.com/

Rosli Mohalim (Sweet Charity)

Name: Rosli Mohalim
Born: 30th September, 1954 (Singapore)

Profile: He is a Singaporean musician, composer and a self-taught guitarist, better known for his guitar works in the 1970's legendary rock group "Sweet Charity" (AKA Singapore's "Deep Purple"). Other then music, Rosli also appreciate fine arts, he graduated from Nanyang Academy Singapore - Fine Arts in 1975.

History: He started to take an interest in music since primary school, from the influence of his brother, his brother was a music lover who always organized bands in the 60's, and every time there was a jammed session, Rosli will come along and play around with the drums. After he finished Primary 6, his brother bought him an acoustic Rossini guitar. Though Rosli did not have any interest in guitar at the time but he learn and developed some of his techniques from a friend named Fadhlin, and bought his first electric guitar when he was just starting his secondary school.

In 1970, Rosli joined a band called "Purple Grass" - which covered mostly "Deep Purple's" songs. After he graduated from school in 1975, he joined a band called "Sugar N Spice" which played mostly on clubs, this period was the era of funk and disco music, and Rosli at the time played bass guitar for the band.

In 1976, frontman Ramli Sarip and guitarist A. Ali of "Sweet Charity", met up with Rosli and asked him to joined "Sweet Charity" as a bass player replacing Wahid Warren. Ramli was very interested on how Rosli played his bass in one of the clubs where Rosli performed, but after guitarist A. Ali left the band, Rosli step up to take the guitar work and told Ramli to look for a new bassist (Rosli was replaced by the late Syed Hassan).

In 1978, "Sweet Charity" debut album was released, and it was the starting era of Rock & Roll in both Singapore and Malaysia. Followed by their second album, in 1980, 'Pelarian', this album consists of two legendary songs, such as; 'Musibah' and 'Zakiah'. Rosli and "Sweet Charity" managed to released 6 more albums until the late 80's, and did a reunion in 1996, with the original line-ups. Today, he is still in the music industry and is one of the high demand session for solo artists, both in Singapore and Malaysia.

Influences: Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, Santana and Grand Funk

Axology: Fender Stratocaster guitar with Floyd Rose Tremolo

Signature song(s): Teratai - Sweet Charity and Kamelia - Sweet Charity (both songs are from - Koleksi Sweet Charity, 1984)

Link(s):

http://roslimohalimfriends.blogspot.com/ (Rosli's blog)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzeE3IU-XTw

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7B4iD3en5GU&feature=related

Link Wray

Name: Frederick Lincoln Wray Jr.
Born/Died: 2nd May, 1929 (Dunn, North Carolina, USA) - 5th November, 2005

Profile: He was an American rock and roll guitarist, songwriter and occasional singer. Wray was noted for pioneering a new sound for electric guitars, as exemplified in his hit 1958 instrumental 'Rumble', which pioneered an overdriven, distorted electric guitar sound, and also for having, 'invented the power chord, the major modus operandi of modern rock guitarist', 'punk' and 'heavy rock'.

History: At age 8, young Wray first heard slide guitar from a traveling carnival worker, an African-American man named 'Hambone', he got interested with the instrument and learned how to play it. In his early years, Wray was a veteran of the Korean war, where he contracted tuberculosis (TB) that ultimately cost him a lung. His doctors told him that he would never sing again. So he concentrated on his heavy guitar work. Despite this, on his rare vocal numbers he displays a strong voice and a range equivalent to Clarence 'Frogman' Henry.

After discharge from the Army, Wray and his brothers Doug and Vernon Wray, with friends Shorty Horton and Dixie Neal, formed "Lucky Wray and the Lazy Pine Wranglers", later known as "Lucky Wray and the Palomino Ranch Hands". They had been playing country music and Western swing for several years when they took a gig as the house band on the daily live TV show Milt Grant's House Party, a Washington, DC version of American Bandstand. The band made their first recordings in 1956 as "Lucky Wray and the Palomino Ranch Hands" for Starday Records.

In 1958, at a live gig of the Milt Grant's House Party, attempting—at the urging of the local crowd—to work up a cover sound-alike for "The Diamonds" hit, 'The Stroll', they came up with an eleven and one half bar blues titled 'Rumble'. The song was an instant hit with the live audience, which demanded four repeats that night. Eventually the song came to the attention of record producer Archie Bleyer, and he wanted the song to be recorded. The song became a huge hit, not only in the US, but also Great Britain, where it has been cited as an influence on "The Kinks", "The Who" and Jimmy Page among others.

In 1960, he performed an instrumental song composed by Jerry Lordan, called 'Apache' which became a hit in the UK for "The Shadows". Wray later recorded one of the better covers of the song 30 years later, somehow finding new life in this mythic, minor-key, guitar/drum dialogue which by then was also associated with everyone from "The Ventures" to the "Incredible Bongo Band". And with the band they had several more hard-rocking instrumental hits in the late 50's and early 60's, including 'Rawhide', 'Ace of Spades', and 'Jack the Ripper'.

After his initial hits, Wray's career had periods of retirement followed by renewed popularity, particularly in Europe. He toured and recorded two albums with retro-rockabilly artist Robert Gordon in the late 70's. The 80's to the 90's saw a large number of reissues as well as new material. Wray's last new recording was in 2000, titled 'Barbed Wire', he even continued to tour up until four months before he died.

In 2003, Link Wray was ranked at #67 in Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 100 Greatest Guitarists of all time, but still has not yet been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He is, however, a member of the Rockabilly Hall of Fame.

Influences: Unknown

Axology: Fender Stratocaster and Gibson SG

Signature song(s): Rumble - Link Wray and his Ray Men (1958)

Link(s):

http://www.rockabillyhall.com/LinkWrayTribute.html (Tribute Page)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LEUBV8qPZhw&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uVfmLFWDnYA&feature=related

Don Alder (Spinal Chord)

Name: Don Alder
Born: 1956 (Williams Lake, British Columbia, Canada)

Profile: He is a Canadian acoustic fingerstyle guitarist with a passion that has quickly earned him a reputation as Vancouver's 'best kept little secret'. Alder is a world-class fingerstyle guitarist that has let to multiple endorsement deals with major manufacturers and a collaboration with Greenfield guitars to produce a signature acoustic guitar- the "Don Alder G4" model.

History: At the age of 14, young Alder was ill for few months which kept him out of school. His mother gave him his first guitar to help him stayed at home and rest, he learned the intro of 'Satisfaction' and then put the guitar to rest.

At some point, when Alder saw the movie 'Woodstock' he was totally blown away by Alvin Lee and the very cool instrumental piece played by Jimi Hendrix at the end of the movie. He then began playing electric guitar (a Simpson Sears electric deluxe) for some time until he met a guy that knew how to fingerpick, and taught him the basics. His first gig was at school with a loud band called "Arsus Myth".

In 1985, Alder put his music career on hold to assist his lifelong friend, Rick Hansen, with his quest to create awareness for the potential of people with disabilities and to generate funds for spinal cord research. The World Tour, inspired millions of people throughout the 34 countries visited and raised 26 million dollars. Today, Alder still works with Rick in a vital role at the Rick Hansen Man in Motion Foundation, and says he got involved with the Foundation to 'help make a difference' in improving the quality of life of others and now continues to do so with his music.

In the early 90's, Alder was mostly playing guitar as a hobby and was heavily involved in Wheelchair Sports. The World Tour developed Alder's wheelchair tech skills which he continued to hone post Tour. This evolved to the point where he was chosen to represent Canada as the Equipment Manager/Wheelchair Tech for the Canadian Paralympic Team in Atlanta in 1996 and Sydney Australia, 2000. During that time he met Sam Sullivan and Dave Symington, both quadriplegics from accidents. Sam and Dave both musicians, founded the Vancouver Adapted Music Society. Alder became the guitarist for the society's, performance band "Spinal Chord". They released a CD title 'Why Be Normal' which received national airplay, and released the video 'Mary'.

Alder has won various awards in first place such as; International Fingerstyle Championships Winfield, Kansas (2007), Vancouver Folk Slam (2004), Vancouver Guitar Show "Shred Contest" (2004) and Best 30-second Guitar Solo Contest - Acidplanet.com (2005) and many more.

Today, Alder continues to play to Canadian, American, European, and Asian audiences, sharing stages with Grand Master Acousticians such as Peter Finger, Jacques Stotzem, Bob Evans, Andy Mckee, and Masa Sumide, John Parr, Ellen McElwaine, Cassius Khan. He has also performed at festivals as a headliner which included artists such as Don Ross, Pierre Bensusan, Del Vazeau, Ric Emmet, Dave Martone.

Influences: Jimi Hendrix, Alvin Lee, Brian May (Queen), Wishbone Ash, Bruce Cockburn, Frank Zappa, Uriah Heep and "Black Sabbath"

Axology: Greenfield Don Alder - G4 signature model, Custom Warmoth Strat, Music Man Albert Lee model, Godin guitar, Fender Stratocaster 1979 and Yamaha guitars

Signature song(s): A Little Charm - Don Alder (Don Alder - Cool Compilation)

Link(s):

http://www.donalder.com/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-vocEYP0NsI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJi-W2p1iEQ

"Alder can make a single instrument sound like a 4 piece band. The Guy's like the acoustic Hendrix" - Picque News Magazine

Janick Gers (Gillan/Iron Maiden)

Name: Janick Robert Gers
Born: 27th January 1957 (Hartlepool, England)

Profile: He is an English musician, best known for his work with "Gillan" and as one of three current guitarists in "Iron Maiden" and a songwriter for the band.

History: Gers started to play guitar after the influence of "Deep Purple's" lead guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, and wanted to start his own band ever since. Though he is left handed, he tried to play guitar right handed as his guitar hero and even played a Fender Strat guitar and used a lot of Pentatonic and Blues scales.

In the late 70's, Gers was the lead guitarist of the band "White Spirit" before joining "Gillan" (early in the 80's), a group formed by former "Deep Purple" vocalist Ian Gillan. After "Gillan" disbanded, he joined "Gogmagog" which included former "Iron Maiden" vocalist Paul Di'Anno and drummer Clive Burr, in 1985 and released an EP 'I Will Be There'. Gers also performed with other artists including former "Marillion" vocalist Fish.

In 1990, he played guitar on the first solo album of "Iron Maiden" vocalist Bruce Dickinson, 'Tattooed Millionaire'. During the recording of the album, he was asked to join "Iron Maiden" in place of departing guitarist Adrian Smith. He has remained with the band ever since, even after Smith rejoined the band in 1999.

Gers' playing style uses heavy distortion and is noted for having a very raw tone. He prefers staccato picking instead of playing legato using hammer-ons and pull-offs.

Influences: Ritchie Blackmore (Deep Purple), Jeff Beck and Rory Gallagher

Axology: Fender Stratocaster, Gibson Chet Atkins semi-acoustic model and Marshall 9200 amplifiers

Signature song(s): Holy Smoke - Iron Maiden (No Prayer for the Dying, 1990) and Lord of the Flies - Iron Maiden (The X Factor, 1995)

Link(s):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxfLW9oN9-k

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQ2urYZcoyo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ZLWZEfd3lU

Patti Smith (Blue Öyster Cult)

Name: Patricia Lee Smith
Born: 30th December, 1946 (Chicago, Illinois, USA)

Profile: She is an American singer-songwriter, poet and visual artist, who became a highly influential component of the New York City punk rock movement with her 1975 début album 'Horses', and was called the 'Godmother of Punk', she integrated the beat poetry performance style with three-chord rock. Smith's most widely known song is 'Because the Night', which was co-written with Bruce Springsteen and reached #13 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1978.

History: As a young girl, she got interested in music in an early stage, and in 1969 she went to Paris with her sister and started busking and doing performance art. When she returned to New York in the early 70's, she spent most of her time painting, writing, and performing.

Smith was briefly considered for the lead singer position in "Blue Öyster Cult". She contributed lyrics to several of the band's songs, including 'Debbie Denise', 'Fire of Unknown Origin' and 'Shooting Shark'. During these years, Smith also wrote rock journalism, some of which was published in Rolling Stone magazine and Creem magazine.

By 1974, Smith was performing rock music herself, initially with guitarist and rock archivist Lenny Kaye, and later with a full band comprising Kaye, Ivan Kral (bass), Jay Dee Daugherty (drums) and Richard Sohl (piano), and named the band as "Patti Smith Group" or "PSG". Financed by Sam Wagstaff, the band recorded a first single, 'Hey Joe/Piss Factory' in 1974.

In 1975, "PSG" was signed by Arista Records, and released their first album 'Horses'. The album fused punk rock and spoken poetry and begins with a cover of Van Morrison's 'Gloria'. As the popularity of punk rock grew, "PSG" toured the US and Europe. The rawer sound of the group's second album, 'Radio Ethiopia', reflected this, and several of its songs from the second album have stood the test of time, and Smith still performs them regularly in concert.

Through most of the 80's, Smith was in semi-retirement from music, but in 1988, she released the album 'Dream of Life', which included the song 'People Have the Power'. In 1994, Smith faced the unexpected death of her brother Todd and "PSG" original keyboard player Richard Sohl. After the impact of these deaths, her friend Michael Stipe (REM) urged her to go back out on the road, and she toured briefly with Bob Dylan in 1995.

In 1996, Smith worked with her long-time colleagues to record 'Gone Again', featuring 'About a Boy', a tribute to Kurt Cobain (Nirvana). Smith was a fan of Cobain, but was more angered than saddened by his death. That same year she collaborated with "Stipe" on 'E-Bow the Letter', and a song on "REM"s 'New Adventures in Hi-Fi', which she has also performed live with the band. After release of 'Gone Again', Smith had recorded two new albums: 'Peace and Noise' in 1997 and Gung Ho in 2000.

In 2005, Smith was named a 'Commander of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres' by the French Ministry of Culture. In addition to her influence on rock music, the Minister also noted Smith's appreciation of Arthur Rimbaud. In 2007, she was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. She dedicated her award to the memory of her late husband, Fred, and gave a performance of "The Rolling Stones" staple 'Gimme Shelter'. As the closing number of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, Smith's 'People Have the Power' was used for the big celebrity jam that always ends the program.

Influences: Unknown

Axology: Fender guitars

Signature song(s): Gloria - Patti Smith (Horses, 1975)

Link(s):

http://www.pattismith.net/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3coSfks4rQ&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cppyn-u3Djw&feature=related

Erros Candra (Sheila On 7/Jagostu)

Name: Eross Candra
Born: 3rd July, 1979 (Yogyakarta, Indonesia)

Profile: He is an Indonesian multi-talented musician, composer and guitarist, better known for his guitar work in "Sheila On 7" or (So7).

History: Erros was born in a musical background families, his mother was a singer, his grandfather was a saxophonist and his uncle was a professional guitar player. Since elementary school, he was exposed to the music industry by accompanied his mother to band practice in their home studio, since then he was so interested in guitar and wanted to learn more about the instrument. He got his first acoustic Kawasaki guitar on his 14th birthday from his dad (which he still kept), and started to learn classical guitar from his uncle named Rus.

In 1995, in 3rd grade junior high school, he joined in a band, but it did not last long because one of his band mates moved to the city, and the band was disbanded. While in high school, Eross was invited to joined "Dizzy band' with Icha and Adhit Jikustik, and it was at this time that his old man bought Erros his first electric guitar. In 1996, Eross acquainted with Sakti, Anton, Adam and Duta. After they went a lot of jamming together, "Sheila Gank" was finally formed on May, 1996. The band had followed 'Festival Band DIY in Yogyakarta and got first prize, and both Eross and Adam won the prize as 'The Best Guitarist' and 'The Best Bassist', respectively.

In 1998, "Sheila Gank" had the opportunity to offer demos of their songs to Sony Music Indonesia, and change the band's name to "Sheila On 7" ('Sheila' is derived from the Celtic meaning of music and 'On 7' was taken from the seven scales in music), and their debut album hit the charts and made "So7" as the new Best Indie band in Indonesia.

With "So7", Eross became the most active songwriter in this band, he also composed songs for Memes, Rio Febrian and Tasya, and both the soundtrack for the movie '30 Hari Mencari Cinta' and 'Soe Hok Gie'. In addition to "So7", Eross is also busy with his new project band, "Jagostu". However, he made sure that his new band will not interfere with the existence and integrity of the band who made him as one of the best guitarist in Indonesia.

Influences: Richie Sambora (Bon Jovi), KISS, Europe and God Bless

Axology: Fender Telecaster and Kawasaki acoustic guitar

Signature song(s): Sephia - Sheila on 7 (Sheila on 7, 1999) and Berhenti Berharap - Sheila on 7 (OST - 30 Hari Mencari Cinta)

Link(s):

http://www.sheilaon7.com/ (Official Sheila on 7 website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3eh6Q-mxI4&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TW0k2JkScgs

Buck Owens

Name: Alvis Edgar Owens, Jr. (aka Corky Jones)
Born/Died: 12th August, 1929 (Sherman, Texas, USA) – 25th March, 2006

Profile: He was an American singer and guitarist (better known as Buck Owens), who had 21 number one hits on the Billboard country music charts with his band, "The Buckaroos". They pioneered what came to be called the Bakersfield sound - a reference to Bakersfield, California, the city Owens called home and from which he drew inspiration for what he preferred to call American music.

History: The name 'Buck' was a donkey on the Owens farm, in Texas, when Alvis, Jr., was 3 or 4 years old, he walked into the house and announced that his name was also Buck. That was fine with the family; and young Alvis was Buck from then on. While living in the farm, Buck who was in his teens started to have an interest in music, mainly; pedal steel guitar, and started to learn more about music.

In 1945, Owens co-hosted a radio show called Buck and Britt. Soon, Owens was frequently traveling to Hollywood for session recording jobs at Capitol Records, playing backup for Tennessee Ernie Ford, Sonny James, Wanda Jackson, Del Reeves, Tommy Sands, Tommy Collins, Faron Young and Gene Vincent.

Owens recorded a rockabilly record called 'Hot Dog' for the Pep label, using the pseudonym Corky Jones because he did not want the fact he recorded a rock n' roll tune to hurt his country music career, but sometime in the 50's, he joined the Dusty Rhodes band as a singer. His career took off in 1959, when his song 'Second Fiddle' hit #24 on the Billboard country chart, followed by 'Under Your Spell Again' at #4 and 'Above and Beyond' at #3.

In the early 60's, the countrypolitan sound was popular, with smooth, string-laden, pop-influenced styles used by Eddy Arnold, Jim Reeves, and Patsy Cline, among others. Owens went against the trend, utilizing honky tonk hillbilly feel, mixed idiosyncratically with the Mexican polkas he had heard on border radio stations while growing up. And in 1963, the single 'Act Naturally' became Owens and the Buckaroos' first #1 hit. "The Beatles" later recorded a cover of it in 1965, with Ringo Starr as lead singer (Starr later re-recorded the song as a duet with Owens in 1988).

In 1972, Owens and the Buckaroos finally had another #1 hit, 'Made in Japan', and he added pedal steel guitarist, Jerry Brightman. The band had been without pedal steel since late in 1969, and Owens returned to his grass roots sound of fiddle, steel, and electric guitars releasing a string of singles including 'Arms Full of Empty' and 'Ain't it Amazing Gracie'.

In late 70's, Owens established Buck Owens Enterprises and produced records by several artists. He recorded for Warner Bros. Records and left the TV series Hee Haw in 1986, after 24 seasons. Owens was named the Most Promising Country and Western Singer of 1960 by Billboard.

Influences: Unknown

Axology: Fender guitars

Signature song(s): Act Naturally - Buck Owens and the Buckaroos

Link(s):

http://www.buckowens.com/index2.html (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOpgL4mqEis

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSY-IF6pI2g

Abdee Negara (Slank)

Name: Abdee Negara
Born: 28th Jun, 1968 (Danggala, Sulawesi, Indonesia)

Profile: He is an Indonesian guitarist, producer and sound engineer. He is notably known as the lead guitarist for the legendary rock band "Slank", after replacing Pay Siburian who left in 1996.

History: Abdee is a self taught guitar player. He started to play guitar in his early teens, and wanted to become a professional musician ever since. In the 80's, he moved from Kota Palu to Jakarta, to pursue his dreams. His first band was with Ecky Lamoh, Gideon Tengker and Henky Supit. After the band split, he became a session player for various artists, from Ermy Kulit to "Trio Kwek-Kwek".

In 1996, after guitarist Pay Siburian left "Slank", Abdee went on to audition for the legendary group. He was accepted for the post and in 1997, "Slank's" 7th studio album 'Tujuh' was Abdee's debut album with the band. The album gave new sound to the band due to Abdee's influences in blues and he even added some of his 'slide' trademarks.

From the start, when he joined "Slank", Abdee has contributed all his efforts on "Slank's" albums. Currently, he is the sound engineer and producer for the band. And he has released 7 albums altogther, from 'Tujuh' (1997), 'Mata Hati Reformasi' (1999), 'Ngangkang' (2000), 'Virus' (2001), 'Satu satu dan Bajakan' (2003) and to the latest album 'The Big Hip' {2008}.

With his tight schedules with "Slank", Abdee also collaborated and produced for other bands, such as "Seurius". He is also a clinician for the G Plus magazine and an endorser for Extreme guitars.

Influences: Keith Richard (Rolling Stones) and Ry Cooder

Axology: Fender Telecaster and Extreme guitars - mainly Telecaster model

Signature song(s): Ketinggalan Zaman - Slank (Mata Hati Reformasi, 1999)

Link(s):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NelLupDNcVY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tdHhPQGCCjo&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZm4m5Q4La0&feature=related

Zim Zum (Marilyn Manson/Pleistoscene)

Name: Timothy Michael Linton
Born: 25th June, 1969 (Chicago, Illinois, USA)

Profile: He is an American multi platinum musician, songwriter and former guitarist for "Life, Sex & Death" and industrial metal band "Marilyn Manson", and was known as Zim Zum. His current projects are "Pleistoscene", a solo project, and "The Pop Culture Suicides".

History: Zim starts to play guitar at the age of 13. His love in guitars, made him worked as a guitar repairman in a local guitar manufacturer. In his early days, before joining "Marilyn Manson", Zim reportedly previously played guitar for the band "Life, Sex & Death".

After responding to an ad in The Chicago Reader for an audition, for replacing the original guitarist Daisy Berkowitz of "Marilyn Manson", he got the job and performed his first live show with the band at Nothing Records' A Night of Nothing showcase, opening for "Nine Inch Nails".

In 1998, the album, 'Mechanical Animals' was Zim's second major label writing and recording, charted at #1 on Billboards Top 200 in its first week of sales, which makes it the first "Marilyn Manson" album to do so. It has since gone on to earn the multi-platinum status. He wrote and recorded on 10 of the 14 tracks on the album. Soon after the album was released, Zim left the band to pursue a solo interests, this includes collaborations with other artists, such as; Cher and her son, Elijah Blue Allman, "Korn" and "Jane's Addictions".

In early 2000's, Zim left Hollywood behind and returned to Chicago, compelled to explore his musical vision in an art and music district. Treading upon uncharted mental ground, he completely isolated himself in his studio for more than a year, cutting off all ties to the outside world in an effort to guarantee the creation and production of his music completely unique in perspective and true to his own definitive musical statement. During that 'self-imposed exile' he spent 14 hours a day writing and recording over 100 songs.

In 2002, Zim formed his unique studio project band, called "Pleistoscene". It was considered to be ahead of it's time for releasing 2 songs as free digital downloads before this was common practice. These downloads attracted over 500,000 hits in the first month it debuted. Even today, he talks about "Pleistoscene" as his 'own orchestra' and states that its still fully functional.

In 2005, Zim brought his main musical project, "The Pop Culture Suicides" to life. The band started releasing 4 songs through their official MySpace profile and have since released many more. And in 2009, he finished recording the band's conceptual double album that will be broken into and released as 4 EP's.

Influences: Unknown

Axology: Gibson Les Paul Custom, Gibson SG, Fernandes guitars, 1976 Fender Stratocaster, 1976 Fender Tele-Deluxe, Fender Barritone guitar, Roland 707 Synth guitar, Washburn P4 guitar, Framus Cobra amplifiers and Marshall 1960B 4x12 cabinets

Signature song(s): Fundamentally Loathsome - Marilyn Manson (Mechanical Animals, 1998)

Link(s):

http://www.zimzum.com/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uW8hb8hsx1k

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3WUVoR8-krQ

John 5 (Marilyn Manson/Loser)

Name: John William Lowery
Born: 31st July, 1971 (Grosse Pointe, Michigan, USA)

Profile: He is an American guitarist, better known with his stage name John 5 which was bestowed on him in 1998 when he joined industrial metal group "Marilyn Manson" as their guitarist, and currently the guitarist for Rob Zombie. He is also a solo artist and works as a staff writer for Chrysalis Records, working with artists such as Avril Lavigne, "Garbage", Meat Loaf, "Scorpions", FeFe Dobson and has been writing and recording with southern rock band "Lynyrd Skynyrd".

History: Lowery first started playing guitar at the age of 7 after watching Buck Owens and Roy Clark's television show Hee Haw with his dad. His parents supported his playing as long as it didn't interfere with his education. They also accompanied him at the adult bars where he would play during the evening. In the 80's, Lowery started his career as a session guitarist having moved to LA from Michigan at the age of 17. His first band in L.A. was "Alligator Soup", which led to an important meeting with Rudy Sarzo (Whitesnake), that would give him his first real bit of exposure.

This also saw him meeting producer Bob Marlette, who has worked with, among others, Tracy Chapman, Alice Cooper, Rob Halford and "Black Sabbath". Lowery began working on numerous projects with Marlette including TV show soundtracks, movie soundtracks, commercials and infomercials. This in turn saw Lowery being picked to play with Lita Ford (The Runaways), opening up for "Kiss", and started another long time friendship with Paul Stanley and various "Kiss" members.

In 1996, Lowery went for his first audition with "Marilyn Manson", but narrowly missed out (he was late to the auditions) and the guitarist role at that time was taken by Mike (Timothy) Linton, who became known as Zim Zum. Instead, Lowery teamed up with former "Judas Priest" frontman Rob Halford, to work on an industrial metal inspired album, under the band name of "2wo". The subsequent album 'Voyeurs' was remixed by Trent Reznor (Nine Inch Nails). The band embarked on a world tour, and were part of the Ozzfest line-up but the tour was pulled and "2wo" disbanded.

After "2wo" disbanded, Lowery's next piece of work came when he played on David Lee Roth's (Van Halen) solo project album, 'The DLR Band'. Lowery was already a fan of the band and was familiar with the playing style. He submitted 6 tracks he had written to Roth's management. Finding they suited, Lowery submitted further tracks to Roth's management. Eventually Roth and Lowery met and recorded 'The DLR Band' album in 2 weeks.

In 1998, the infamous band "Marilyn Manson" was looking for a guitarist to replace Zim Zum. Again, for the second time Lowery went to try out for the band audition. Following a tour with Rob Halford in Europe, Lowery received a call from Manson's manager asking if he would like to meet Manson for lunch. At the meeting Manson asked Lowery to join the band, taking the moniker, 'John 5', he signed on for the band's tour and to work on the next album. Lowery's first live performance for "Marilyn Manson" came on the MTV Video Music Awards.

In 2005, after Lowery left "Marilyn Manson", he formed the band "Loser", recruiting vocalist Joe Grah, bassist Charles Lee and drummer Glendon Crain, they began working on their debut album 'Just Like You'. The band had initial success not long after signing with Island Records, when the track 'Disposable Sunshine' became part of the Fantastic Four Movie soundtrack. At the same time, Lowery was also working for Rob Zombie and a working conflict occurred.

In 2006, Lowery left "Loser", and took up the role of Rob Zombie guitarist as a permanent gig. Lowery is also working on the musical score for Rob Zombie's 6th feature-length film, Tyrannosaurus Rex.

Starting in 2004, Lowery has gone on to record a total of five instrumental records. His works have had many guest players on them, from Steve Vai, Joe Satriani to Jim Root. And in 2009, Lowery released a remix album, 'Remixploitation', and has also released an instructional DVD entitled 'The Devil Knows My Name'.

Influences: Buck Owens and Roy Clark

Axology: Fender J5 Telecaster, Fender J5 Acoustic, Squier J5 Telecaster, Ibanez AX, Ibanez Iceman, Ibanez RG, Ibanez Talman, Gibson Les Paul, Taylor 912 Acoustic, Boss effects and Marshall amplifiers - JCM900

Signature song(s): The Fight Song - Marilyn Manson {Holy Wood (In the Shadow of the Valley of Death), 2000} and Pear of Anguish - John 5 (Requiem, 2008)

Link(s):

http://www.john-5.com/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xdc7u4MUYYo

http://www.youtube.com/user/john5official?blend=1&ob=4

Dick Dale (The Del-Tones)

Name: Richard Anthony Monsour
Born: 4th May, 1937 (Boston, Massachusetts, USA)

Profile: He is a surf-rock guitarist, known as 'The King of the Surf Guitar'. He experimented with reverberation and made use of custom made Fender amplifiers, including the first-ever 100-watt guitar amplifier.

History: In 1954, Dale moved to Massachusetts to Orange County, California. He learned to surf and became interested in music. He soon learned to play the drums, the trumpet, but it was the ukelele that really caught his ear - a lefty, Dale played the instrument upside-down and backwards but without restringing it, from ukelele it evolves to playing the guitar. Eventually, he formed a band called "The Del-Tones" (Texas DJ; 'T. Texas Tiny' suggested Dale's stage name).

Much of his early music shows a Middle Eastern influence; Dale is often credited as one of the first electric guitarists to employ non-Western scales in his playing. Dale himself was an amateur surfer and wanted his music to reflect the sounds he heard in his mind while surfing. While he is primarily known for introducing the use of guitar reverb that would give the guitar a 'wet' sound, which has since become a staple of surf music, it was Dale's tremolo picking that was his trademark.

With his backing band "The Del-Tones", Dale's live performances became huge local draws. The song 'Let's Go Trippin' is often regarded as the first surf rock song. This was followed by more locally released songs, including 'Jungle Fever' and 'Surf Beat' on his own Deltone label. His first full-length album was 'Surfers' Choice' in 1962. His signature single 'Misirlou' went to #1 in America, followed by his second album, named after his performing nickname, 'King of the Surf Guitar'.

In 1964, surf rock briefly became nationally popular in the US, but the British Invasion began to overtake the American charts. In 1986, he recorded a new album and was nominated for a Grammy, and the use of 'Misirlou' in the Quentin Tarantino film, 'Pulp Fiction', gained him a new audience. He has released several albums since and continues to tour.

In 1987, he appeared in the movie 'Back to the Beach'. He features playing surf music, also playing 'Pipeline' with blues legendary, the late Stevie Ray Vaughan. And in 2005, the "Black Eyed Peas" song 'Pump It' from the 'Monkey Business' album heavily samples Dale's 'Misirlou'. 'Misirlou' is also featured on games such as the infamous; Guitar Hero II, as well as Rayman Raving Rabbids.

Influences: Hank Williams, Gene Krupa and Harry James

Axology: Fender Stratocaster guitar and Fender Dual Showman amplifiers

Signature song(s): Misirlou - Dick Dale and The Del-Tones (Surfer's Choice, 1962)

Link(s):

http://www.dickdale.com/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m6M6kd8cmpI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kXq7e4Zbrx0&feature=related

Muddy Waters

Name: McKinley Morganfield
Born/Died: 4th April, 1915 (Issaquena County, Mississippi, USA) – 30th April, 1983

Profile: He was an American blues musician, generally considered 'the Father of Chicago blues'. Blues musicians Big Bill Morganfield and Larry 'Mud Morganfield' Williams are his sons. A major inspiration for the British blues explosion in the 60's, Waters was ranked #17 in Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time. His fondness for playing in mud earned him the nickname 'Muddy' at an early age. He later changed it to 'Muddy Water' and finally 'Muddy Waters'.

History: He started out on harmonica but by the age of 17 he was playing the guitar at parties emulating two blues artists who were extremely popular in the south, Son House and Robert Johnson.  Waters moved to Chicago for the first time in 1940. He played with Silas Green a year later, and then returned to Mississippi. In the early part of the decade he ran a juke joint and performed music there himself.

In 1943, Waters headed back to Chicago with the hope of becoming a full-time professional musician. Big Bill Broonzy, one of the leading bluesmen in Chicago at the time, helped Waters break into the very competitive market by allowing him to open for his shows in the rowdy clubs. In 1945, his uncle Joe Grant gave him his first electric guitar which enabled him to be heard above the noisy crowds.

In 1947, Waters recorded some tunes for Aristocrat, he also played guitar with Sunnyland Slim on piano, but in 1948, songs like 'I Can't Be Satisfied' and 'I Feel Like Going Home' became big hits and his popularity in clubs began to take off. Soon after, Aristocrat changed their label name to Chess Records and Waters' signature tune 'Rollin' Stone' also became a smash hit.

In 1958, Waters headed to England and shocked audiences (whose only previous exposure to blues had come via the acoustic folk/blues sounds of acts such as Sonny Terry & Brownie McGhee and Big Bill Broonzy) with his loud, amplified electric guitar and thunderous beat. His performance at the 1960 Newport Jazz Festival, recorded and released as his first live album, At Newport 1960, helped turn on a whole new generation to Waters' sound. He expressed dismay when he realized that members of his own race were turning their backs on the genre while a white audience had shown increasing respect for the blues.

Waters' sound was basically Delta blues electrified, but his use of microtones, in both his vocals and slide playing, made it extremely difficult to duplicate and follow correctly.

Influences: Unknown

Axology: Fender Telecaster guitars

Signature song(s): Rollin' Stones - Muddy Waters (The Best of..., 1958)

Link(s):

http://www.muddywaters.com/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uO4A6xx65WU&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0StecXInguc&feature=related

Rhoma Irama (Orkes Melayu Purnama/Soneta)

Name: Raden Oma Irama
Born: 11th December, 1946 (Tasikmalaya, Indonesia)

Profile: He is an Indonesian dangdut guitarist, singer and actor. During the height of his stardom in the 70's, he became the self-proclaimed 'Raja Dangdut' (King of Dangdut) with his group "Soneta".

History: His career began in the late 60's when he recorded solo records and with the group "Orkes Melayu Purnama". He sang duets on several record LPs with Indonesian female vocal stars such as Inneke Kusumawati, Ellya Khadam, Lily Junaedhy, Vivi Sumanti, and the later to be crowned 'Queen of Dangdut', Elvy Sukaesih.

It was at this period of time, a new popular music called Dangdut emerged from the slums and suburbs of Jakarta in Indonesia. The music was performed on an electrified and modernized version of the older acoustic orkes melayu orchestra and combined influences from Indian and Malaysian film music, Islamic popular music and American popular song, primarily rock.

The name dangdut is an onomatopoeic reference to the tabla-like pair of drums used in the ensemble that supply the genre with its defining rhythm: DANG dut, in which a heavy, low-sounding pitch off the beat ("dang") is followed by a light, higher pitch note on the downbeat ("dut"). The form was originally characterized by love duets between young men and women.

Once Oma broke from recording with "Orkes Melayu Purnama", he eventually formed "Orkes Melayu Soneta", the first so-called Dangdut group. In fact, Oma established the term Dangdut with a song by that name from the early 70's. He wrote the classics 'Kareta Malam' and 'Kuda Lumping' which were sung by Elvy Sukaesih. Once "Soneta" was established in the early 70's, Oma changed his name to Rhoma and went on a decade long run of successful hit records and films, all of which starred Rhoma playing himself while performing all of his hits.

During the 80's, Dangdut was synonymous with the on-stage persona of Rhoma, dressed in a tight black tanktop, headband, leather pants, gloves and boots, and playing a black flying-V guitar, sweatily glistening in heavy-metal dangdut glory-certainly a far cry from the bubblegum, coy flirtatiousness of the heavily made-up teen dangdut singers of the genre's early years. By the late 80's, Rhoma had become fabulously wealthy. During this era, he continued to record and develop an international reputation, collaborating with such legends as Lata Mengeshkar, the golden voice of Bollywood.

Today, Rhoma is still active with the dangdut and entertainment business. However, with his semi-retirement, dangdut has reverted mostly to light flirtatious songs, and today it greatly resembles other forms of more overtly Westernized Indonesian genres of popular music.

Influences: Unknown

Axology: Fender Stratocaster and Gibson Flying V

Signature song(s): Begadang - Rhoma Irama (Begadang, 1978)

Link(s):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bimiSFIDCN4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=flJ57d1zRZw

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkG9id2eXb0&feature=related

Otis Rush

Name: Otis Rush
Born: 29th April, 1935 (Philadelphia, Mississippi, USA)

Profile: He is a blues musician, singer and guitarist. His distinctive guitar style features a slow burning sound and long bent notes. With similar qualities to Magic Sam and Buddy Guy, his sound became known as West Side Chicago blues and became an influence on many musicians including Michael Bloomfield, Eric Clapton and SRV.

History: Rush is a self-taught musician who began playing the guitar at the age of 8. Moving to Chicago in 1948, he was introduced to the more urban sounds of the blues and made the decision to become a performer after he saw Muddy Waters for the first time. At the age of 13-14, Rush made a name for himself playing in clubs on both the South Side and West Side blues scenes. Soon Rush fronted his own band under the name of "Little Otis".

From 1956-1958, he recorded for the Cobra Records and released eight singles, some featuring Ike Turner on guitar. His first single 'I Can't Quit You Baby' reached #6 on Billboard's chart. During his tenure with Cobra, he recorded some of his well known songs such as 'Double Trouble' and 'All Your Love (I Miss Loving)'.

In 1960, Rush landed a recording contract with Chess. He recorded eight tracks for the label, four of which were released on 2 singles that year. Six tracks including the 2 singles later came out on 'Door To Door' album in 1969, a compilation with Albert King. Around the 60's, Rush began playing in other cities in the US and also to Europe, most notably the American Folk Blues Festival.

In 1971, Rush recorded the album 'Right Place, Wrong Time' for Capitol Records, and the album was released 5 years later. The album generally has since gained a reputation as one of the best works by Rush. In 1985, he made a tour in the US and releasing the live album, 'Tops', recorded at the San Francisco Blues Festival. In 1998, Rush released 'Any Place I'm Goin', and earned his first Grammy Award for Best Traditional Blues Album in 1999.

Though he has not recorded a new studio album since 1998, he continued to tour and perform. In 2002, he was featured on the Bo Diddley tribute album 'Hey Bo Diddley - A Tribute!', performing the song 'I'm A Man'.

Influences: Muddy Waters, Jimmie Rogers, T-Bone Walker and BB King

Axology: Fender Stratocaster, Gibson ES-335, Gibson ES-355 and a Japanese-made Flying V

Signature song(s): Double Trouble - Otis Rush (singles, 1958) and Three Times A Fool - Otis Rush (Right Place, Wrong Time, 1976)

Link(s):

http://www.otisrush.net/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uy2tEP3I3DM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QsXK2zL2-yM

David Gilmour (Pink Floyd)

Name: David Jon Gilmour
Born: 6th March, 1946 (Cambrige, England)

Profile: He is an English rock musician, best known as the lead guitarist, one of the lead singers, and one of the main songwriters in the progressive rock band "Pink Floyd". In addition to his work with "Pink Floyd", Gilmour has worked as a record producer for a variety of artists, and has enjoyed a successful career as a solo artist.

History: Gilmour attended The Perse School on Hills Road, Cambridge, and met future "Pink Floyd" guitarist and vocalist Syd Barret, along with bassist and vocalist Roger Waters. Gilmore studied modern languages along with Barrett, and spent his lunchtime learning to play the guitar. They were not yet bandmates however, and Gilmour started playing in the band "Joker's Wild" in 1962.

In 1966, Gilmour left "Joker's Wild" and busked around Spain and France with some friends. However, they were not very successful, living virtually a hand-to-mouth existence, and about a year later he returned back to England.

In 1967, Gilmour was approached by drummer Nick Mason, who asked if he would be interested in joining "Pink Floyd", which he did in January 1968, making "Pink Floyd" briefly a five-piece band. He was used to fill in for Syd Barrett's guitar parts when the front man was unable to take a consistent part in "Pink Floyd's" live performances.

When Syd Barrett left the group, Gilmour by default assumed the role of the band's lead guitarist and shared lead vocal duties with bassist Roger Waters and keyboard player Richard Wright in Barrett's stead. After recording 'Animals' album, Gilmour thought that his musical influence had been underused, and channeled his ideas into his self-titled first solo album in 1978, which showcases his signature guitar style, as well as underscoring his songwriting skills.

Gilmour's solo style is often characterized by blues-influenced phrasing, expressive note bends and sustain. He is also a proficient multi-instrumentalist. He plays bass guitar (which he did on some "Pink Floyd" tracks), keyboards, banjo, harmonica, drums (as heard on the Syd Barrett solo track 'Dominoes', and other songs where he opted to play all the instruments) and lately, the saxophone.

Taking time off from "Pink Floyd's" schedule, Gilmour also took up various roles as a producer, sideman and even concert sound engineer for a wide variety of acts which included former bandmate Syd Barrett, Paul McCartney (The Beatles), Kate Bush, Grace Jones, Tom Jones, Elton John, Eric Clapton, BB King, Seal, Sam Brown, Jools Holland, Bob Dylan, Pete Townshend, The Who, Supertramp, Levon Helm, Robbie Robertson, Alan Parsons, and various charity groups among others.

In 1985, Gilmour was member of Bryan Ferry's band. He played on Ferry's album 'Boys & Girls', as well as the song 'Is Your Love Strong Enough' for the US release of the Ridley Scott-Tom Cruise film 'Legend'. A music video for the latter was created, incorporating Ferry and Gilmour into footage from the film. He also took part in a comedy skit titled 'The Easy Guitar Book Sketch' with comedian Rowland Rivron and fellow British musicians Mark Knopfler (Dire Straits), Lemmy (Motorhead), Mark King (Level 42) and Gary Moore.

In 1994, Gilmour played guitar for the video game 'Tuneland', along with the additional saxophonist for "Pink Floyd", Scott Page. In 2001-2002, Gilmour held a small number of acoustic solo concerts in London and Paris, along with a small band and choir, which was documented on the In Concert release. In 2003, Rolling Stone magazine included Gilmour in the list of hundred greatest guitarists of all time.

Influences: Jimi Hendrix

Axology: Fender Stratocasters, Fender Telecasters, Fender Esquire, Fender Bass VI, Fender Precision bass, Fender Jazz bass, Gibson Les Paul Goldtop, Gretsch guitars, Ovation guitars, Takamine guitars, Martin guitars, Taylor guitars, Guild guitars, Charvel guitars, Music Man Fretless Stingray bass guitars, Steinberger GL, Jose Vilaplana nylon string guitar, Fender amplifiers, Mesa/Boogie amplifiers and Hiwatt amplifiers

Signature song(s): A Saucerful of Secrets - Pink Floyd (A Saucerful of Secrets, 1968) and Another Brick in the Wall Part 2 - Pink Floyd (The Wall, 1979)

Link(s):

http://www.davidgilmour.com/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c5LcMAlR7nc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bGV1lfoKhi0&feature=related

Carter Lancaster

Name: Carter Lancaster
Born: mid 1950's (Ontario, Canada)

Profile: A versatile guitarist, performer and composer, he is one of those rare musicians whose expertise and virtuosity transcend issues of style. His unique musical vision has led him to master Jazz, Bluegrass and modern acoustic guitar styles, in a manner that allows each style to complement the others without sacrificing any of their respective nuances. A performer with over 30 years experience, and can be seen working as a solo artist, with jazz and folk duos, trios, or quartets, and occasionally with orchestras.

History: Lancaster was raised in a family who loved music, his father was a jazz pianist - and taught him the importance of understanding scales, chord theory, and harmony. Young Lancaster learned to read music at an early age. He started playing acoustic guitar at the age of 11 on a 'Saturn' acoustic guitar (at the time it cost him $12) which he still owns. He took private lessons for 5 years and gradually switched over to an Aria semi acoustic guitar.

By the time Lancaster was 13, he purchased a Gibson ES 335 which was his main guitar for years. He then formed his first band called "Velvet Fog", which covered mostly Jimi Hendrix songs. In his early 20's, he started playing more acoustic guitar and purchased a Martin M-36 acoustic guitar that he used for Bluegrass. It was at this period of time he started writing his own music.

Though Lancaster started by playing the guitar, he began studying the harp guitar (a rare vintage instrument with 6 treble and 5 or 6 contra-basses), after he heard a Stephan Bennett album. He was intrigued with the sounds from this amazing instrument and bought 2 Dyer Symphony Harp guitars that are about a hundred years old.

Lancaster was noticed in the music community after he performed one of his original compositions 'Widow Walk' at the Harp Guitar Gathering in Williamsburg, Virginia. But, he is probably known best for his fluid jazz electric chord-melody style and his standard and open tuning acoustic compositions, his ability to incorporate a variety of harmonic and 2-handed tapping techniques, while maintaining a strong melody line and percussive rhythm are sure to grab any listener’s attention.

In 2009, Lancaster released his second solo album called 'Case Closed'. The album is a compilation of original pieces performed solo on 6 string acoustic and Harp guitar. Currently, he is writing more music which he hopes to begin recording soon for his next album.

Influences: Joe Pass, Lenny Breau, Bruce Cockburn and Stephen Bennett

Axology: 2 Dyer Symphony Harp Guitars, Holloway Harp Guitar, Marc Beneteau Concert standard, Breedlove Performance Focus, Fender Stratocaster, Gibson ES-335, Martin M-36 guitar and Saturn acoustic guitar

Signature song(s): Blue - Carter Lancaster (Case Closed, 2009) and Widow Walk - Carter Lancaster (Case Closed, 2009)

Link(s):

http://www.carterlancaster.com/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q3zdCuSSMwc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nkl5BiUg6rE

"When I listened to Carter’s CD, I became more and more annoyed as I realized that he had written some tunes that I should have. He must be stopped". - Stephen Bennett

Pay Siburian (Slank/BIP)

Name: Parlin Burman Siburian
Born: 2nd May, 1970 (Pematang Siantar, Sumatera, Indonesia)

Profile: He is an Indonesia musician and lead guitarist, notably known for his guitar works in the legendary rock group "Slank". He was one of the few Indonesian guitarist featured in the album 'Gitar Klinik' and jam with Andy Timmons (Danger Danger) at the Hard Rock Cafe, Jakarta.

History: Started to play guitar since year 4 at school, and determined to make music as his career. In his teenage years, he joined various of bands, but never had the opportunity to get a deal with any major recordings.

In the mid 80's, Pay was heavily influenced by Eddie Van Halen and Steve Vai (at that time, Vai was still with David Lee Roth's band). With the help of these influenced, Pay started to play rock and heavy music.

In 1989, he joined "Slank", a rock group from Jakarta. Pay who at that time knew a few major producers, try his luck to sent the band's demos. Eventually, the band got a deal for an album and in 1990, "Slank" released their debut album 'Suit-Suit....Hehehe (Gadis Sexy)'. The album was a hit and received a lot of positive reviews, and the band was known as the new Indonesia Rock group, after "God Bless".

In 1996, after releasing 5 albums with "Slank", Pay quit the band. After four long years leaving "Slank", he formed a new rock band called "BIP", with other former "Slank" members (bassist Bongky and keyboardist Indra). With this new lineup (joined by drummer Jaka and vocalist Irang Perdana), "BIP" has released 4 albums, 'Turun dari Langit' - (2001), 'Min Plus' - (2002), 'The Best of .....' - (2003) and 'Udara Segar' - (2004).

Pay also collaborated with Ronald, vocalist Once (Dewa19) and the late vocalist Andy Liany to formed "Fargat 27". The band released their only album 'Seribu Angan'.

Influences: Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, Keith Richard (Rolling Stone), Michael Lee Firkins, Eddie Van Halen, Eet Sjahranie (EdanE) and Edy Kemput

Axology: Fender Telecaster, Jackson guitars, Ibanez guitars, Laney amplifiers and Marshall amplifiers

Signature song(s): Hey…Bung! - Slank (Generasi Biru, 1995) and Ke Rumah Kak Butet - Pay Siburian (Gitar Klinik)

Link(s):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VuDonaKprcg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSmxBoRgr4o&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GwgEFQrvuEw&feature=related

Tomo Fujita

Name: Tomo Fujita
Born: Unknown

Profile: He is a Japanese guitarist and an assistant professor in Berklee College of Music (Guitar Department). He is also a columnist for Japanese guitar magazines.

History: His love in music started when he was young, and determined to be a musician ever since. He went to Berklee College of Music, where he met and studied with Jazz-guitarist Joe Pass. Tomo earned a degree at Berklee College of Music and has been a faculty member at Berklee since 1993. Perhaps the most famous of his former Berklee students are "Soulive" guitarist Eric Krasno (Kraz) and John Mayer.

After he graduated from Berklee College, Tomo was interested in discovering more about the blues. He listened to all the records of legendary BB King and T-Bone Walker, and started playing with blues bands. He could play blues technically, but emotionally he could not connect himself to the music, he then started (experimenting) playing gospel music at church every Sunday, to capture the 'feel'.

He possesses all the elements of great musicianship; astounding technical ability, flawless rhythm skills, and a total command of his instrument. In his private lessons, he teach fundamental techniques for playing good music — by getting a good tone from the guitar and keeping a good rhythm. He discovered in playing blues songs, it was very difficult to achieve quality and the details, that is why he teach a lot of grooves and rhythm. It is very important for him, to emphasize expression, tone and time.

Tomo has performed with some of the best artists in the world, including Phil Collins, John Mayer, James Genus (Saturday Night Live), Will Lee (Late Show with David Letterman), Kenwood Dennard, bassist Jaco Pastorious, Dizzy Gillespie, Jimmy Smith, Darryl Jones, Miles Davis, Sting, the "Rolling Stones", Paul Jackson, Ronnie Earl, Steve Gadd, Bernard Purdie, Steve Jordan and Susan Tedeschi.

Tomo is also affiliated with the major music schools in his native Japan. His articles have been published in the Japanese magazines 'Jazz Life' and 'Jazz Guitar', and he is a regular contributor to the Japanese edition of 'Guitar magazine'. His instructional materials are especially popular in Japan, where guitar players have bought more than 100,000 copies of his videos and books.
Tomo also enjoyed a guitar-playing gig in a Boston production of the musical 'Rent'. And, currently, Tomo is touring to promote his newly released album 'Pure', and he usually presents clinics annually in Japan.

Influences: BB King, T-Bone Walker, Jimi Hendrix, Joe Pass, Larry Carlton, Ray Charles, James Brown, Jeff Beck and Stevie Ray Vaughan

Axology: Fender guitars, Fender amplifiers and Fuchs amplifiers

Signature song(s): Tomo Fujita (Right Place, Right Time, 2007) and (Pure, 2010)

Link(s):

http://www.tomofujita.com/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hP-alOw-ALw