Musically, the acoustic guitar has found a very deep niche in society and the world at large. With its rich, natural sound, it has been used in many genres, from classical to rock music.
However, some musicians have done more than just play the instrument; they have reinvented it and reshaped its concept. So how about we dig deeper into the accomplishments of these influential acoustic guitarists?
It’s time to analyze the impact some of the world’s best acoustic guitarists have made in the music industry and the new ideas they imparted to the acoustic guitar.
Andrés Segovia: The Classical Master
Andrés Segovia is regarded as the founder of modern classical guitar playing. Born in Spain in 1893, Segovia’s virtuosity was instrumental in raising the acoustic guitar from a mere folk instrument to one that could be played on concert stages all over the world. It was a revolution that he introduced in the classical genre.
Not only did Segovia record many of the compositions of the guitar repertoire, but he also encouraged composers to write new compositions for the guitar. His fingerpicking was precise, and his control of dynamics was such that the guitar seemed to ‘sing’ with a clarity and passion that was unadulterated.
By demanding that the acoustic guitar be accepted as a concert instrument, Segovia changed its status forever, and his name is now synonymous with the instrument.
Chet Atkins: The Country Gentleman
Chet Atkins changed the acoustic guitar altogether and became one of the great legends of country and pop. Often referred to as “Mister Guitar”, Atkins was credited with changing the sound of the guitar and of country music by introducing the “Nashville Sound” — a cleaner, more polished sound.
Atkins was born in Tennessee, United States, in 1924 and was famous for his unique playing style: he was able to play the lead melody, the chords and bass lines all at once. This made his guitar sound like a whole band.
His style of playing encompassed using the pick and fingers at the same time, which made him play complex pieces of music with ease. This innovation affected many guitarists in the genres of country, pop, and rock.
Eric Clapton: From Electric to Acoustic
While people are well acquainted with Eric Clapton’s electric guitar work, his acoustic guitar work is equally impressive. His “Unplugged” album, released in 1992, was instrumental in the promotion of the acoustic type of sound in rock music.
Such songs as ‘Tears in Heaven’ and ‘Layla’ unplugged clearly demonstrated that Clapton could adapt his electric blues to the acoustic setting. Clapton’s acoustic guitar playing showed the depth that could be extracted from this instrument and was as powerful as any electric guitar playing.
He has taken blues, rock and folk to new heights and is still making the world of acoustic guitar playing a richer niche for music lovers and guitar enthusiasts.
Leo Kottke: The Fingerpicking Innovator
Leo Kottke would easily qualify as one of the most original acoustic guitarists of the twentieth century. Popular for his unorthodox techniques, Kottke’s music is characterized by complex finger-picking and polyrhythmic drumming that challenged the conventional capabilities of the acoustic guitar.
His technique includes using two hands in intricate ways, giving him a rich sound that imitates several instruments at the same time. Kottke’s albums, especially “6- and 12-String Guitar”, are the albums you need to listen to for a more nuanced idea of what is possible with the acoustic guitar.
His unique approach to the folk, jazz and blues instruments made him stand out from other musicians of his era, and he is still making acoustic guitar music magic today.
John Fahey: The Pioneer of American Primitive Guitar
John Fahey may not be as popular as Segovia or Clapton, but his contribution to the world of acoustic guitar playing cannot be overemphasized. He is often credited as being the founder of the American Primitive Guitar style, which blends folk music with avant-garde and classical elements.
His playing technique involved the use of open tunings and fingerpicking, which gave him a sound that was an interesting blend of traditional American music and experimental music.
That Fahey was able to tell stories through instrumental music made him a cult hero of the acoustic guitar. His approach to the exploration of new sounds using the guitar is still being emulated by young players today who want to go beyond the conventional guitar sound.
Tommy Emmanuel: The Modern Virtuoso
Tommy Emmanuel is one of the most outstanding guitarists of the present age of acoustic guitar performers. Born in Australia in 1955, he’s acknowledged as being one of the finest fingerstyle guitarists on the international circuit — both in terms of his proficiency and his ability to convey feelings through his instrument.
In his performances, Emmanuel combines melody, rhythm and harmony all at the same time, on one acoustic guitar. His style of playing this iconic instrument has broadened a new horizon for newer acoustic guitar players by showcasing that there’s so much more musicality to be explored with the instrument.
The Final Word: Continuing the Legacy of the Acoustic Guitar
The acoustic guitar has evolved; it has been changed by visionaries who have used it far beyond its basic functions and capabilities. These artists include the great Andrés Segovia, who gave the instrument a classical touch, and the modern stylings of Tommy Emmanuel.
This duo and many others’ classical styles and inputs have taken the acoustic guitar to astonishing heights. Their strings have guaranteed the unshakable prominence of acoustic guitars, along with their sustainability in different music genres for the next generations.
