MY FAVORITE AXE with Ben Tyree

BACKGROUND
NYC guitarist Ben Tyree is a performer/composer of virtuosic ability, infectious groove, and eclectic tastes. That versatility has led to work with artists as diverse as Vernon Reid, Elliott Sharp, Valerie June, Burnt Sugar and his own trio BT3.

MAKE & MODEL
1982 Gibson Les Paul Standard

WHAT IT MEANS TO YOU
Everything. This is a magical axe and has been with me through many gigs, recordings, tours and television shows. I’ve never had a bad gig or sound with it. Through all the axes I’ve bought and subsequently pawned, I could never part with this one. It is a part of me.

WHAT IT SOUNDS LIKE
Warm maple syrup but can growl like a rabid wolf.

SPECIAL FEATURES
I sanded neck for natural wood feel. Love it! The rest is all stock except for an installed N-Tune Artist Series onboard tuner. Unlike some older Les Paul models, this Standard’s weight is wonderfully balanced. No broken backs or leaning headstocks here.

LISTEN & WATCH at www.bentyree.net and youtube.com/bentyree

Got a favorite instrument you’d like to share? Email us at editorial@performermag.com. 

photo by Deneka Peniston