Riff Tone

Spirit In the Sky

Norman Greenbaum

Guitarrock1960s

Original Gear

GuitarTeisco Del Rey hollowbody (likely model ET-460 or similar, as per multiple sources)

AmpUnknown tube amp (not definitively identified in any source; likely a small combo amp typical of late 1960s studios)

PickupsTeisco single-coil pickups (stock, low output, microphonic)

Amp Settings

gain7

bass6

mid6.5

treble7

reverb2.5

presence5.5

Effects & Signal Chain

fuzzJordan Jordan Boss Tone Fuzz

Notes

Studio recording, 1969. The fuzz tone was achieved using a Jordan Boss Tone fuzz unit plugged directly into the guitar. No evidence of additional pedals or amp effects. Some sources mention a Telecaster with built-in fuzz, but majority consensus and interviews point to the Teisco Del Rey with a Jordan Boss Tone. No evidence of live rig for this tone.

Tone Character(10)

broken and nasty fuzzsputtery, mis-biased fuzzbuzzsaw-like distortionthick, compressed sustainlo-fi, spitty characterraw, aggressive attackslightly gated fuzz decaymidrange-heavy, nasal toneunrefined, garage rock texturedistinctive, gnarly fuzz

Difficulty

The riff is straightforward and repetitive, relying on power chords and a steady rhythm, but requires control over a noisy, high-gain fuzz tone.

Sources

Anybody ever nailed the 'Spirit in the Sky' fuzz tone? : r/guitarpedals Norman Greenbaum - Equipboard Catalinbread Releases the Fuzzrite Germanium - Premier Guitar Spirit in the Sky Fuzz | The Gear Page

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