For guitar enthusiasts and music lovers alike, the twelve-string guitar offers a rich, shimmering sound that has shaped some of the most iconic songs in history. This list highlights famous tracks that showcase the unique tonal qualities and musical versatility of the twelve-string guitar, perfect for those interested in exploring its distinctive role in popular and classic rock, folk, and beyond.
1. The Byrds – “Mr. Tambourine Man”
The Byrds’ 1965 hit “Mr. Tambourine Man” features one of the most recognizable uses of the twelve-string guitar in folk-rock history. Roger McGuinn’s jangly twelve-string Rickenbacker 12-string creates the song’s signature shimmering sound, effectively blending folk melodies with the electric edge of rock. This track was pivotal in popularizing the twelve-string guitar in mainstream music and set a standard for jangly guitar sounds.
2. The Beatles – “If I Needed Someone”
From the 1965 album “Rubber Soul,” “If I Needed Someone” showcases George Harrison’s skillful use of the twelve-string guitar. The bright, ringing tone adds a layer of melodic complexity to the song, giving it a distinctive British Invasion feel. Harrison’s tasteful playing demonstrates how the twelve-string can enrich folk-influenced pop songs with a shimmering texture.
3. Led Zeppelin – “The Battle of Evermore”
Led Zeppelin’s “The Battle of Evermore,” from their 1976 album “Physical Graffiti,” features a beautiful duet between Jimmy Page’s twelve-string acoustic guitar and a mandolin. The twelve-string’s lush, full sound creates an atmospheric backdrop, complementing the song’s folk-inspired style. This track exemplifies the versatility of the twelve-string in producing both rhythmic and melodic textures.
4. The Rolling Stones – “You Can’t Always Get What You Want”
From their 1969 album “Let It Bleed,” this classic song features a prominent twelve-string guitar part played by Mick Jagger. The bright, expansive sound of the twelve-string adds depth to the song’s layered instrumentation, especially during the chorus. Its shimmering tone helps elevate the song into a timeless anthem of hope and resilience.
5. The Byrds – “Eight Miles High”
Another Byrds classic, “Eight Miles High,” released in 1966, is renowned for its innovative use of the twelve-string guitar. Roger McGuinn’s pioneering jangly style creates a psychedelic, spacey sound that was groundbreaking at the time. The twelve-string’s capacity to produce a rich, textured sound was instrumental in shaping the psychedelic rock genre.
6. Simon & Garfunkel – “Scarborough Fair/C Canticle”
This traditional folk ballad, arranged by Simon & Garfunkel, features a delicate twelve-string guitar that lends an ethereal quality to the track. The shimmering resonance complements the vocal harmonies and ancient melody, showcasing how the twelve-string can evoke a sense of timelessness. It’s a perfect example of folk music’s integration of the twelve-string for atmospheric effect.
7. The Byrds – “Turn! Turn! Turn!”
From 1965, this song is driven by the twelve-string guitar’s bright, rhythmic strumming, which forms the backbone of the track. The jangly sound complements the song’s biblical lyrics and folk roots, making it one of the quintessential twelve-string guitar songs of the 1960s. Its energetic strumming exemplifies the instrument’s role in folk-rock.
8. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers – “American Girl”
The 1977 hit “American Girl” features a subtle but effective use of the twelve-string guitar in the intro and chorus. Mike Campbell’s layered guitar work adds a shimmering texture that enhances the song’s upbeat, rootsy vibe. The twelve-string’s bright tone helps give the track its distinctive, enduring sound.
9. The Byrds – “So You Want to Be a Rock ‘n’ Roll Star”
This 1967 song is notable for its energetic twelve-string guitar riff played by Roger McGuinn. The crisp, ringing sound captures the exuberance of the late 60s rock scene, and the song’s dynamic strumming exemplifies how the twelve-string can drive a song’s rhythm while adding melodic interest. It remains a classic example of the twelve-string’s impact on rock music.
10. The Hollies – “Bus Stop”
Released in 1966, “Bus Stop” features a bright, rhythmic twelve-string guitar part that contributes to its infectious melody. The Hollies’ use of the twelve-string enhances the song’s jangly pop style, making it a staple of British Invasion sound. The shimmering tone provides a lively, cheerful atmosphere that’s instantly recognizable.
How to Choose
When selecting a twelve-string guitar, consider the type of music you want to play, your skill level, and your budget. Look for a guitar with a solid top for better resonance and a well-constructed neck for comfortable playability. Brands like Martin, Guild, and Rickenbacker offer high-quality options, but there are also more affordable models from Yamaha and Epiphone that deliver good sound for beginners. Pay attention to the guitar’s tuning stability, action, and overall build quality, as these factors significantly influence your playing experience and tone.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What’s the main difference between a six-string and a twelve-string guitar? A twelve-string guitar has six courses of strings, with each course typically consisting of a main string and a paired, octave or unison string. This setup produces a fuller, richer sound with more harmonic complexity compared to a standard six-string guitar.
- Is a twelve-string guitar harder to play? Yes, it generally requires more finger strength and precision due to the doubled strings and increased tension. However, with practice, players can adapt to the added complexity and enjoy its unique sound.
- Can I tune a twelve-string guitar to standard tuning? Absolutely. Most twelve-string guitars are tuned the same as six-string guitars but with octave strings on the higher courses. Proper tuning is essential for optimal sound and playability.
- Are twelve-string guitars suitable for beginners? They can be, but they are often recommended for players with some experience due to their increased string tension and complexity. Beginners might prefer starting with a six-string guitar and progressing to a twelve-string later.
- What genres benefit most from a twelve-string guitar? Folk, rock, jangle pop, and psychedelic music are particularly suited to the twelve-string’s shimmering sound. It’s also used effectively in acoustic ballads and even some country tracks.
Final Thoughts
The twelve-string guitar has left an indelible mark on popular music, shaping iconic sounds across genres from folk-rock to psychedelic. Its distinctive shimmering tone can elevate a simple melody into something truly memorable. Whether you’re inspired by the jangly tunes of The Byrds, the atmospheric layers of Led Zeppelin, or the folk richness of Simon & Garfunkel, exploring the twelve-string guitar opens up a world of sonic possibilities. Investing in the right instrument and learning how to harness its unique qualities can take your musical expression to new heights.
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