Musicians are always looking for new ways of expression, often leading changes to the sound from their instruments. One of the most important changes for the guitar came about by accident.
Glenn Snoddy, a Nashville recording engineer, created the fuzz pedal. This came about by accident during a 1961 recording session for Marty Robbins’ single “Don’t Worry”. A malfunction occurred in the console through which bass guitarist Grady Martin was playing, causing the original fuzz-tone effect. Martin wished a retake, but Snoddy thought that this new sound was unique and would distinguish the recording.
Snoddy was correct. He developed a device to create the fuzz effect at will, and the Gibson guitar company created the fuzz box for sale, for which Snoddy received royalties. The rest is rock history as fuzz and other distortion effects are quite prevalent in rock music.
Here is a playlist of favourite songs that have the fuzz effect to varying degrees. The song that started it all kicks off the list.
Enjoying with a fuzzy navel is optional!
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4CZDelT7cEVMO45eE9DCmZ?si=QbbWX5N2QqWPEEJVALqnlw
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