Paul McCartney is one of the most iconic musicians of all time, and his contributions to the world of music are immeasurable. As a member of the Beatles and a solo artist, McCartney has written and performed some of the most beloved songs in history. But what guitar does Paul McCartney play? McCartney is known for his proficiency on bass guitar, but he’s also a talented guitarist in his own right.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the guitars that Paul McCartney has played throughout his career, from his early days with the Beatles to his solo work. We’ll explore the unique qualities and sounds of each guitar, and the impact they’ve had on McCartney’s music.
Whether you’re a fan of the Beatles, McCartney’s solo work, or simply a lover of great music, you’ll find something informative and entertaining in this guide to the guitars of Paul McCartney. So, grab your guitar, tune up, and let’s dive into the world of one of the greatest musicians of all time.
Over the years, McCartney has played a variety of different guitars, both acoustic and electric. In the early days of The Beatles, he played a Zenith Model 17 acoustic guitar and a Rosetti Solid 7 electric guitar. As he became more successful and began to experiment with different sounds, he started to use a wider range of guitars, including some that were custom-built for him.
Paul McCartney’s Guitars
Paul McCartney is known for his iconic bass lines and songwriting contributions to the Beatles. He’s also a talented guitarist who has played a variety of guitars throughout his career. Here’s a look at some of the guitars he’s played over the years.
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Hofner Bass Guitars
Paul McCartney is most famous for playing Hofner bass guitar. He bought his first Hofner 500/1 bass in 1961 and played it throughout the Beatles’ career. McCartney has said that he prefers the Hofner’s lightweight construction and the way it feels in his hands. He still plays Hofner basses in his live shows today.
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Epiphone Texan Acoustic Guitar
McCartney used an Epiphone Texan acoustic guitar to record “Yesterday” in 1964. He later used the guitar for the Beatles’ performance of the song on the Ed Sullivan show in 1965. McCartney still plays the guitar frequently in his live shows, equipped with a Fishman Matrix Infinity pickup system.
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Gibson Les Paul Guitars
McCartney is also a fan of Gibson Les Paul guitars. He owns several models of the guitar, including one of two left-handed 1960 Les Paul Standards ever made. McCartney calls the guitar a great antique and a classic.
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Fender Telecaster Guitars
McCartney has played Fender Telecaster guitars on occasion. He played a Telecaster on the Beatles’ song “Get Back” and has been photographed playing one in the studio. McCartney also owns a Fender Esquire guitar, which he played on the Beatles’ Revolver album.
Overall, Paul McCartney is a versatile guitarist who has played a variety of guitars throughout his career. From Hofner basses to Gibson Les Pauls, McCartney has a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship and sound of different guitars.
What Guitar Does Paul McCartney Play Now
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The Höfner Violin Bass 500/1
Paul McCartney’s most iconic guitar is undoubtedly the Höfner Violin Bass 500/1, which he played during his time with The Beatles. The bass guitar, which was first introduced in the 1950s, has a distinctive violin-shaped body and a warm, rich tone that McCartney fell in love with.
Despite being nearly 60 years old, McCartney still uses the same Höfner bass guitar today, which he affectionately refers to as his “baby.” He has even had it repaired and maintained over the years to keep it in top condition.
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The Gibson J-160E Acoustic-Electric Guitar
The Gibson J-160E Acoustic-Electric Guitar is another instrument that McCartney often plays in his live performances, in addition to his Höfner bass guitar.
The guitar, which he first used during The Beatles’ early days, has a bright, crisp sound that complements McCartney’s vocals perfectly.
McCartney’s J-160E is a vintage model from the 1960s, but he also owns a newer version of the guitar that he uses for recording and live performances. Overall, Paul McCartney’s guitar collection is a testament to his love of music and his dedication to his craft.
Whether he’s playing his iconic Höfner bass or his trusty Gibson acoustic-electric, McCartney always manages to create beautiful, timeless music that resonates with fans around the world.
What Guitar Does Paul McCartney Play – Final Thoughts
Paul McCartney is a legendary musician who has played a variety of guitars throughout his career. From his early days with The Beatles to his solo work, McCartney has always been a versatile musician who is comfortable playing both acoustic and electric guitars.
Over the years, McCartney has owned and played a number of different guitars, including the Epiphone Casino, the Gibson Les Paul, and the Hofner 500/1 bass. He has also played a number of acoustic guitars, including the Martin D-28 and the Epiphone Texan FT-79.
While McCartney’s choice of guitar may have changed over the years, one thing has remained constant: his love for music. Whether he’s playing a classic Beatles tune or a new solo track, McCartney’s passion for music shines through in every note he plays.
Ultimately, the guitar that McCartney plays is less important than the music he creates with it. As one of the most influential musicians of all time, McCartney’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of musicians to come.
