Joe Satriani – The Life, Guitars and Gear
Joe Satriani is one of the most iconic and influential guitarists of all time. He is known for his virtuoso skills and innovative techniques. His blend of rock, blues, and other genres has earned him numerous awards and a dedicated fan base.
In this post, we’ll delve into the life and career of Satriani, explore his iconic guitars and gear, and learn how he’s shaped the world of guitar playing.
Table of Contents
The Early Years
Born on July 15, 1956, in Westbury, New York, Joe Satriani discovered his passion for guitar at the tender age of 14. Inspired by the legendary Jimi Hendrix, he decided to pursue guitar playing seriously. Satriani studied under jazz guitar greats such as Lennie Tristano and Billy Bauer, and later became a guitar teacher himself, imparting his knowledge to future guitar legends like Steve Vai, Kirk Hammett, and Larry LaLonde.
The Rise to Fame
Joe Satriani’s rise to fame began in 1986 with his debut album “Not of This Earth,” which showcased his unique musical style.
However, it was his second album, “Surfing with the Alien” (1987), that catapulted him to international stardom. This album, featuring instrumental rock hits like “Satch Boogie” and “Always with Me, Always with You,” displayed his exceptional command over the guitar and ability to create expressive melodies.
Guitars
Throughout his career, Joe Satriani has become synonymous with Ibanez guitars, particularly the JS series.
The collaboration between Satriani and Ibanez began in the late 1980s, resulting in the creation of the first Joe Satriani Signature model, the JS1. This series has evolved over the years, with various models featuring different finishes, pickups, and hardware.
One of Satriani’s most recognizable guitars is the Ibanez JS1000, which has been his main instrument for years. This guitar boasts a basswood body, rosewood fretboard, and a pair of DiMarzio humbuckers, the PAF Pro (neck) and the Fred (bridge). These pickups provide the perfect balance of warmth and clarity, allowing Satriani to achieve his signature tone.
Other notable guitars in the JS series include the JS2410, which features an alder body and Sustainiac pickup, and the JS2480, which comes equipped with a Sustainiac pickup and a DiMarzio Satch Track single-coil-sized humbucker in the neck position.
Guitar Equipment
Joe Satriani’s tone is the result of not just his guitars but also his choice of amplifiers and effects. Over the years, he has used Marshall, Peavey, and Mesa Boogie amps.
His long-standing partnership with Marshall led to the development of the JVM410HJS Joe Satriani Signature amp head. This versatile 100-watt amplifier features four channels, each with three modes, offering a lot of tonal options.
Satriani’s effects setup has evolved over time, but some essential pedals have remained constant.
The Ibanez Tube Screamer, particularly the TS9 and TS808 models, has been a staple in his rig for years, providing a smooth overdrive and natural compression.
Additionally, Satriani has used the Dunlop Cry Baby wah pedal, which delivers the expressive, vocal-like quality he’s known for.
Other crucial elements of his effects arsenal include the Boss DS-1 Distortion pedal, Eventide H9 Harmonizer, and the Strymon TimeLine Delay pedal.
For his signature lead sound, Satriani often employs the use of a delay and reverb in combination with his overdriven tone. The TC Electronic Hall of Fame Reverb and the aforementioned Strymon TimeLine have become key components in achieving his ethereal, soaring leads.
Influence
Joe Satriani’s impact on the guitar world extends beyond his own music. In 1995, he founded the G3 tour, a concert series featuring three guitar virtuosos sharing the stage. This concept has allowed guitar enthusiasts to witness incredible performances by legends such as Steve Vai, Eric Johnson, Yngwie Malmsteen, John Petrucci, and many others.
Satriani’s online guitar lessons, masterclasses, and “Guitar Camp” events have inspired and nurtured countless guitarists. By sharing his knowledge and experiences, Satriani ensures that the next generation of guitar players can continue to push the boundaries of their instrument.
