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Muddy Waters

Chicago Blues1941–1983USA

Plugged a Telecaster into a small amp and turned the blues electric — the sound of Chess Records in one man's slide.

Known for: Mannish Boy, Hoochie Coochie Man, Rollin' Stone

gear entries

with sources

Rig rundown

Amp

Small tweed combos, turned up and miked close.

Guitar

A '57 Tele, often tuned to open G for slide.

Guitar

Used on the later, heavier Chicago sides.

What to dial in to chase Muddy Waters's signature sounds — knob positions, pickup choice and amp EQ as documented.

Darker still — slide played right over the neck pickup.

Open-G slide on the Telecaster with the tone rolled back to a smoky growl.