Preston Reed is an American guitarist who has long been regarded as one of the most innovative and technically advanced players in the fingerstyle and percussive guitar world. Born in 1955 in New York, Reed is known for his groundbreaking approach to acoustic guitar, blending traditional fingerstyle with percussive techniques, slap bass, and intricate rhythmic patterns that have redefined what is possible on the instrument. His ability to create complex, multi-layered soundscapes using just one guitar has earned him recognition as a virtuoso in the world of instrumental guitar music.

A Journey into Percussive Guitar: The Early Years

Reed’s musical journey began at an early age, starting with a classical music background before shifting his focus to the guitar. His early influences included the works of Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, and jazz guitarists like Wes Montgomery. However, Reed’s true breakthrough came when he developed his own unique fingerstyle technique, incorporating percussive tapping and slap bass into his playing, long before these techniques became popular in modern acoustic guitar music.

By the early 1980s, Reed had begun to experiment with these percussive techniques in his compositions, and in 1984, he released his first album, “The New Age Guitar”. The album demonstrated his innovative style, which seamlessly blended elements of jazz, rock, and folk music with the intricate rhythms of traditional percussion. Over the years, Reed’s music evolved, and he became one of the leading pioneers in the development of percussive fingerstyle guitar.

Key Tracks: Preston Reed’s Defining Compositions

Reed’s compositions showcase his innovative approach to guitar playing, combining melodious guitar lines with complex rhythmic structures. Some of his most iconic tracks include:

• “Tiger Walk” – One of Reed’s most popular pieces, this track is a perfect example of his ability to blend percussive tapping with melodic playing. The song’s driving rhythm and powerful dynamic shifts make it a favorite among fans of his work.
• “Lucy’s” – A beautiful, intricate piece from his “Lucy’s” album, this song highlights Reed’s delicate fingerpicking alongside percussive elements, creating a rich, layered sound that conveys deep emotion.
• “The Gathering” – From the album “The Gathering”, this composition mixes acoustic guitar with a sense of space and rhythm, combining Reed’s signature slap bass technique with expressive melodic lines.
• “Oceanside” – A dynamic and emotive piece from his “Wood, Wire & Strings” album, this track demonstrates Reed’s ability to evoke emotion through his percussive guitar style, with striking rhythmic patterns and harmonies.

Technique and Gear: Mastering the Art of Percussive Guitar

Reed is perhaps best known for his innovative use of percussive techniques on the guitar, often turning the instrument into both a melodic and rhythmic tool. His slap bass technique—where he slaps the strings to create bass-like sounds—combined with his intricate fingerpicking, allows him to create a rich, full-bodied sound that feels much larger than a solo acoustic guitar.

One of the most impressive aspects of Reed’s style is his ability to tap on the body of the guitar to create rhythm, transforming the instrument into a drum set. This allows him to integrate complex rhythms while still playing intricate melodies, a technique he pioneered before it became widespread in the fingerstyle community. His gear often includes Martin and Taylor guitars, which complement his playing with their resonant tones and crisp response to percussive techniques.

Legacy and Influence: Pushing Guitar Boundaries

Preston Reed has been a major influence on the world of acoustic guitar, especially in the field of fingerstyle and percussive guitar. His innovative techniques have inspired countless guitarists to experiment with rhythm and texture in ways that were previously thought impossible. Guitarists like Andy McKee, Kaki King, and Antoine Dufour have cited Reed as a key influence on their own playing styles.

Beyond the guitar world, Reed’s music has also found a place in other genres, influencing musicians in fields such as jazz, world music, and experimental music. His ability to break the boundaries of traditional acoustic guitar has made him a leading figure in the modern instrumental music scene.

Conclusion: Preston Reed’s Lasting Impact

Preston Reed is a true pioneer of the percussive guitar style, known for his ability to create complex and captivating compositions that challenge the limits of the acoustic guitar. His innovative techniques, including tapping, slap bass, and percussive rhythms, have not only revolutionized acoustic guitar playing but also left a lasting legacy in the world of instrumental music. As one of the key figures in the evolution of modern guitar music, Reed’s influence continues to inspire new generations of guitarists and musicians.

Bonus Track: 10 Facts About Preston Reed

1. Early Musician: Reed began playing guitar at age 12, studying classical music before discovering the world of modern fingerstyle.
2. Innovation in Percussion: Known for inventing the percussive tapping and slap bass techniques on the guitar.
3. First Album: Released “The New Age Guitar” in 1984, showcasing his innovative approach to the instrument.
4. Influence: Inspired many of today’s top fingerstyle and percussive guitarists, including Andy McKee and Kaki King.
5. Global Performer: Has performed around the world, showcasing his unique style to audiences in Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
6. Collaborations: Worked with numerous musicians across a variety of genres, including jazz, folk, and rock.
7. Guitar Gear: Known for playing Martin and Taylor guitars, which complement his dynamic playing style.
8. Film and TV: His music has been featured in various films and television shows, enhancing the emotional impact of visual media.
9. Educational Influence: Offers workshops and instructional materials, helping to teach and spread his unique percussive techniques to others.
10. Pioneer: One of the first to truly integrate percussive guitar techniques into mainstream acoustic music, setting the stage for future generations of players.