Solo Tone

Kickstart My Heart

Mötley Crüe

Guitarrock1980s

Original Gear

GuitarFender Stratocaster (HH configuration, likely Charvel-style Superstrat as used by Mick Mars in late 1980s studio sessions)

AmpMarshall JCM800 (studio recording, 1989)

PickupsHumbucker (bridge position, likely Seymour Duncan JB or similar high-output humbucker)

Amp Settings

gain7

bass5.5

mid5.5

treble7

reverb2

presence6

Effects & Signal Chain

distortionUnknown Distortion pedal (model unknown, possibly Boss DS-1 or similar)

wahUnknown Wah pedal (model unknown, likely Dunlop Cry Baby or Vox)

delayUnknown Delay pedal (model unknown, likely analog or digital rack delay)

Notes

Studio recording for 'Dr. Feelgood' album, 1989. Gear based on period-correct interviews and studio photos. Settings and effects are for the solo section, not live or rhythm parts.

Tone Character(10)

saturated and compressedbright high-end biteample mids for solo claritytight and articulate leadsinging sustainaggressive attackcutting through the mixcranked Marshall crunchslightly scooped lowsstudio-level clarity

Difficulty

The solo requires advanced speed, control of expressive effects (wah), and precise articulation at a fast tempo, making it challenging for most intermediate players.

Sources

Amp Settings for Kickstart My Heart by Mötley Crüe (track tone) - Guitar Chalk What is the solo at the end of 'Kickstart My Heart' : r/MotleyCrue

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