Solo Tone

The Meaning of the Blues

Joe Bonamassa

Guitarblues2010s+

Original Gear

GuitarGibson Les Paul Standard (likely late 50s reissue or vintage, as per Bonamassa's typical studio use)

AmpMarshall Silver Jubilee (primary for driven solo tones, as per Bonamassa's studio/live rig for modern blues recordings)

PickupsGibson PAF-style humbuckers

Amp Settings

gain5.5

bass7

mid7

treble6

reverb3.5

presence6

Effects & Signal Chain

overdriveIbanez Ibanez TS808 Tube Screamer

delayUnknown Delay pedal (model unknown)

Notes

Studio recording, circa 2010s. Bonamassa is known to use vintage Les Pauls and Marshall Silver Jubilee amps for his heavier blues solo tones. No direct evidence for this exact song, but this is consistent with his studio rig for similar material in this era.

Tone Character(10)

singing sustainwarm and smoothfat midrangetouch-sensitivevocal-like phrasingdynamic responserich harmonic overtonesfluid legatoclassic British crunchsmooth overdrive

Difficulty

The solo requires advanced blues phrasing, expressive bends, and dynamic control to achieve the singing sustain and vocal-like tone, making it challenging for intermediate players.

Sources

Joe Bonamassa and His New Album, Breakthrough - Premier Guitar Joe Bonamassa's Guitar Gear, Pedalboard & Amps | Equipboard Rig Rundown - Joe Bonamassa (2013) - Premier Guitar

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