Melissa Etheridge: A Journey of Guitar Mastery with Bonnie Raitt
Growing up, Melissa Etheridge was surrounded by musical icons who inspired her guitar journey.In a recent conversation with Guitar Player, she shared the legendary musicians who influenced her style and technique.
Musical Influences: The Icons of Etheridge’s Guitar Journey
Etheridge’s acoustic guitar playing was significantly shaped by the powerful styles of Richie Havens and José Feliciano. “Their approach to the acoustic guitar was so impactful for me,” she reflected. “And then ther’s Keith Richards; hearing the Rolling Stones made me think, ‘I can do that!’ Those three are the essence of guitar playing for me.”
The Importance of Mentorship in Music
Every aspiring musician benefits from guidance, and Etheridge was fortunate to have Bonnie Raitt as her mentor. Despite having signed with Island Records, Etheridge was still finding her footing with the electric guitar.
Raitt quickly identified that the 1978 Gibson Les Paul Custom etheridge had purchased with her father was not the best choice for her as a touring artist. Known for their weight, Etheridge described her Les Paul as “the heaviest thing you can imagine.”
Wise Advice from a Guitar Legend
Raitt candidly advised Etheridge, “That Les Paul’s too heavy for you, honey. You’re not gonna be able to do that.” This led them to Norm’s Rare guitars, a renowned spot for musicians seeking quality instruments.
Norman Harris’ store is legendary for serious guitar trades,and Etheridge had valuable assets to offer.With Raitt’s support, she left the store with a Fender Stratocaster, although she expressed a hint of nostalgia for her Les Paul.
A Quest for the Lost Les Paul
Etheridge even attempted to track down her old Les Paul, but like many lost treasures, the trail had gone cold. ”If I knew where it was, I’d go find it,” she lamented. “I’ve asked Norm, but he doesn’t have records from that long ago.Recently, someone gifted me a 1979 Les Paul, which helps ease the loss a bit.”
New Music on the Horizon
Etheridge is also set to release her 17th studio album, titled Rise, on March 27 through Sun Records. The album was recorded at the iconic sunset Sound studios, where she collaborated with Shooter Jennings as co-producer.
Continuing her connection with Norman’s Rare Guitars, Etheridge filmed the music video for her latest single, Bein’ Alive, at the Tarzana location, further solidifying her bond with the guitar community.
