7-string humbucker

The history of 7-string electric guitars stretches back several decades, with roots in the jazz tradition before spreading to other musical genres. Early mentions of 7-string guitars date back to the beginning of the 20th century, but it was in the 1930s that the concept began to take more concrete form as jazz musicians sought a wider range.

The popularization of the 7-string electric guitar is often attributed to George Van Eps, an American jazz guitarist who, in the 1930s, collaborated with the manufacturer Epiphone to create a 7-string guitar, adding a bass string to enrich the possibilities for accompaniment and solo playing.

In the 1990s, the 7-string guitar experienced a resurgence of interest, particularly in the metal and progressive rock scene, where the demand for heavier and deeper sounds led to the widespread adoption of this instrument.

Famous Models and Brands

Several guitar manufacturers have produced 7-string models that have become iconic over the years. Among the best known are:

• Ibanez: One of the pioneers, with the Universe model, designed in collaboration with Steve Vai in the 1990s. It was one of the first mass-produced 7-string electric guitars, marking a turning point in the accessibility of this instrument for the general public.
• Music Man: The John Petrucci signature model is also very popular among metal and progressive rock guitarists, offering exceptional build quality and great versatility.
• ESP: Offers several 7-string models that are highly regarded in the metal genre, thanks to their solid construction and their ability to deliver heavy and precise sounds.

Famous Guitarists

Several renowned guitarists have popularized the use of the 7-string electric guitar across various musical genres:

• Steve Vai: One of the first adopters of the Ibanez Universe model, he greatly contributed to popularizing the 7-string guitar in rock and instrumental metal.
• John Petrucci of Dream Theater: Known for his impeccable technique and expressive use of the 7-string guitar, particularly on the Music Man models that bear his name.
• Misha Mansoor of Periphery: Influential in the djent movement, Mansoor uses 7-string guitars to create complex rhythms and dense sonic textures.

These instruments and the musicians who adopted them played a crucial role in the evolution of contemporary music, offering a new palette of sounds that continues to inspire new generations of guitarists. The 7-string electric guitar thus represents a fascinating intersection of technical innovation and artistic expression.