Solo Tone

Rebel Yell

Billy Idol

Guitarrock1980s

Original Gear

GuitarHamer Steve Stevens I

AmpMarshall 1971 JMP 100-watt (metal panel, non-plexi)

PickupsDiMarzio Super Distortion (bridge humbucker, likely stock for Hamer SS I in 1983)

Amp Settings

gain7.5

bass6

mid6.5

treble7.5

reverb2.5

presence6.5

Effects & Signal Chain

distortionPro Co Pro Co RAT

chorusBoss Boss CE-2 Chorus

delayUnknown Delay pedal (model unknown)

compressionBoss Boss CS-2 Compression Sustainer

Notes

Studio recording, 1983. Steve Stevens confirmed in interview he used his '71 Marshall JMP for the original 'Rebel Yell' recording. Guitar is Hamer Steve Stevens I, as per period-correct pedalboard/guitar photos and interviews. Not live rig. No evidence of later Knaggs, Friedman, or Godin guitars/amps on this recording.

Tone Character(10)

singing sustainharmonic feedbacktight, focused attackcutting lead tonerich upper midrangearticulate pick attackslightly compressedchorus shimmerfuzz-like saturationdistinct stereo width

Difficulty

The solo requires advanced control of fast picking, expressive vibrato, and harmonics at a high tempo, demanding both technical proficiency and dynamic control.

Sources

Billy Idol & Billy Idol – Rebel Yell - Gear & Equipment Used on the Album | Equipboard Steve Stevens Interview: His Solo Album and His Gear - Premier Guitar Steve Stevens | Equipboard

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