This article series is about the tools of popular guitarists. What are their favorite guitars and how is it related to them? This time with Andy Gray (Letz Zep).
When you start guitar playing and do you remember your first guitar?
I started playing guitar when I was around 13 years old. I think the brand was called ‚Rockwood‘ and I bought the guitar, a little practise amp and a chord book from my local music store. Before guitar I had played a little bit of violin and cello too.
What are your influences and which guitar players are your faves?
I’m mainly influenced by classic rock and blues but I listen to a lot of different styles of music. Some of my favourite guitar players are: Jimmy Page of course, David Gilmour, Eddie Van Halen, Mark Knopfler, Joe Satriani… There are loads more…
How many guitars do you own and what are your favorite models?
I own around 15 guitars which I have collected over the years. It’s a pretty varied selection.. a few Les Pauls, a Fender Stratocaster, some 80’s rock guitars, a couple of acoustics and a couple of nylon string guitars, and the double neck!! I would say my favourite is my Les Paul that I bought 20 years ago!
What do you think makes the perfect guitar and amp?
For me I suppose it’s a Les Paul through a classic Marshall. If you can turn it up a bit the amp can come to life and be really reactive.
How do you feel about the question of modeler or tube amp?
I think the modelling amps are getting much better and they are great in certain gigging/recording situations. But for me, especially playing in a Led Zep tribute, I have to use a noisy tube amp to get the classic rock kinda sound.
When you only can choose one guitar, which one will you take?
It would be my Les Paul.
