Iconic guitarist Johnny Marr has crafted some of the most memorable guitar riffs of the past five decades. In a segment from his interview on Questlove Supreme, Marr reveals how he carved out his own distinctive sound and, despite advances in music technology and shifting playing styles, why he remains true to his original approach. He also shares a moment of realization regarding fellow guitar legend Eddie Van Halen.
Marr discusses how his distinct guitar style was influenced by the minimalist, post-punk movement of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Rather than embracing the popular overdriven and distorted sounds of the era, Marr opted for a clean, melody-focused style that steered clear of typical rock techniques like pentatonic blues licks. This funk-inspired, stripped-down approach was a conscious departure from the dominant musical trends of the time, forcing him to concentrate on melodies and arpeggios rather than relying on effects. Marr credits artists like Nile Rodgers for influencing this direction and notes how technological constraints pushed his creativity. While he appreciates modern tools and effects, Marr stresses the importance of balancing them with musical integrity. His decision to omit certain technical gear from his book was intentional, as he wanted it to appeal to both musicians and a general audience.
