How Hawaiian Steel Guitar Shaped the Sound of Electric Guitar in Country Music

When we think of country music, we may not immediately associate it with Hawaiian steel guitar. However, the influence of this unique instrument on the genre cannot be ignored. The way in which the steel guitar was first introduced to the world, and particularly to the United States, is a fascinating story. In this article, we will trace the roots of Hawaiian music and explore the development of the steel guitar in Hawaii. We will then follow the instrument’s journey from Hawaii to America, and the rise of Hawaiian and country music fusion. Finally, we will examine the impact of the Hawaiian steel guitar on country music, particularly on guitarists and the evolution of electric country music. Join us on this journey of discovery, exploring the obscure origins of one of the most beloved instruments of country music.

The Birth of Hawaiian Steel Guitar

The sound of Hawaiian steel guitar is synonymous with the vibrant and exotic culture of Hawaii. However, its origins are shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Many theories exist about the birth of this unique instrument, with some linking it to African slaves, while others claim that it was inspired by the Latin American guitar. Nevertheless, one thing is clear – the Hawaiian steel guitar’s development is inexorably linked to the rich history of Hawaii. Let’s delve into the roots of Hawaiian music and the evolution of this magical instrument.

Tracing the Roots of Hawaiian Music

Tracing the roots of Hawaiian music reveals a unique blend of various cultures and influences over the centuries. Polynesians who settled in Hawaii brought with them their own music traditions, which combined with those of indigenous Hawaiians. European settlers in Hawaii in the 19th century also contributed to the music scene with their instruments and traditions.

Instruments such as the ‘ukulele’ and ‘slack key guitar’ became popular in Hawaiian music before the introduction of the steel guitar. However, the steel guitar, which originated in Hawaii in the late 19th century, transformed Hawaiian music into something unique and distinct.

The sound produced by the steel guitar was unlike anything heard before, with its smooth sliding tones and otherworldly vibrato effects. Hawaiian musicians soon began incorporating the steel guitar into their music, and it quickly gained popularity across the islands.

Some musicians even claim the sound of the Hawaiian steel guitar is similar to the traditional Indian instrument, the sitar. This connection could be due to the Indian migrants that had settled in Hawaii at the time.

The steel guitar, with its ability to produce a sound that was both smooth and whimsical, soon captured the hearts of people across the globe. It was this unique sound that would later influence genres such as country music and leave an impact that will last forever.

References:

• Les Paul: Electric Guitar and Its Influence on Country Music
• Evolution of Electric Guitar in Honky Tonk & Western Swing

Development of Steel Guitar in Hawaii

The development of steel guitar in Hawaii can be traced back to the mid-19th century when Portuguese immigrants arrived in the islands to work in sugarcane plantations. These immigrants brought with them a small, four-stringed instrument called the machete, which later evolved into the ukulele. The Hawaiians quickly embraced these instruments and integrated them into their traditional music.

However, the sound of the steel guitar did not emerge until the early 20th century. The credit for this invention is given to Joseph Kekuku, a Hawaiian musician who is said to have accidentally discovered the “steel” sound. According to legend, Kekuku was walking along a railroad track with his guitar when he dropped his metal bar. As he picked it up, he noticed the sound it made when he accidentally touched the strings. Intrigued by this sound, he began to experiment with different types of bars until he found the one that produced the desired tone.

From there, Kekuku continued to develop the steel guitar as a standalone instrument, which resulted in the Hawaiian lap steel guitar. The lap steel guitar was played in a horizontal position on the lap or on a stand, and had a distinctive sound that was achieved by sliding a metal bar along the strings. This technique, known as “slack-key,” produces a unique vibrato effect that gives the instrument its characteristic sound.

The popularity of the Hawaiian lap steel guitar spread quickly throughout the islands and eventually to the mainland United States. In the early 20th century, Hawaiian music became a craze in the American music industry. Hawaiian musicians, such as Sol Hoopii, Andy Iona, and Roy Smeck, were in high demand and traveled across the country to share their music.

The development of steel guitar in Hawaii was a significant milestone in the history of music. The accidental discovery of the “steel” sound by Joseph Kekuku paved the way for the evolution of the Hawaiian lap steel guitar. This distinctive instrument and its unique sound enriched the world of music and influenced genres beyond traditional Hawaiian music. Without the popularity of the steel guitar in Hawaii, we could have never had the earliest electric guitar in country music, which truly revolutionized the genre.

From Hawaii to America: The Spread of Steel Guitar Sound

As the sound of Hawaiian steel guitar became increasingly popular in the early 20th century, it made its way from the Hawaiian Islands to the mainland United States. Initially, it was performed in small venues such as saloons and honky-tonks, but soon it found a place on the big stage. In this section, we’ll delve deeper into how the steel guitar sound spread from Hawaii to America, and how it eventually became a staple in country music. And if you’re interested in the history of the earliest electric guitar in country music, you can check it out here. Let’s explore the fascinating journey of this unique sound.

Introduction of Steel Guitar in America

The introduction of **steel guitar** in America can be traced back to the early 20th century. It all started with the **Hawaiian music craze** that swept across the mainland United States. Hawaiian music was brought to the United States by musicians who traveled from Hawaii to perform at various events and exhibitions.

|Year|Event|
|—|—|
|1915|Panama-Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco|
|1916|Hawaiian Pavilion at the New York World’s Fair|
|1916|Royal Hawaiian Band’s tour of mainland United States|

During these events, Hawaiian musicians showcased their unique music style which featured the **steel guitar**. The sound of the steel guitar was new and intriguing to American audiences, many of whom had never heard anything like it before.

Soon, **musicians** in America began experimenting with the steel guitar and incorporating it into their own music styles. One of the first musicians to do so was **Sol Ho’opi’i**, a Hawaiian musician who moved to California and began playing with his band, Sol Ho’opi’i and his Novelty Quartette. Ho’opi’i’s band became popular and helped to further popularize Hawaiian music and the steel guitar in America.

Other musicians, such as Bob Dunn and Leon McAuliffe, also began incorporating the steel guitar into their music. Dunn was a member of Milton Brown and His Musical Brownies, a western swing band, while McAuliffe was a member of Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys, another popular western swing band.

As the popularity of the steel guitar grew, musicians began to experiment with amplifying the sound, and the **electric guitar** was born. The electric guitar created a new sound that was louder and more versatile than the traditional acoustic guitar, and it quickly became the preferred instrument for country music.

Thus, the introduction of the steel guitar in America was a pivotal moment in the evolution of country music, leading to the birth of the electric guitar and new and exciting sounds in country music.

Rise of Hawaiian and Country Music Fusion

During the early 20th century in America, the Hawaiian steel guitar sound became extremely popular and this led to a beautiful fusion of Hawaiian and country music. The Hawaiian sound was introduced in the early 1900s at the Panama-Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco, where The Hawaiian Pavilion featured Hawaiian music and culture. Hawaiian musicians spread this new sound across the United States and the country music scene soon adopted it.

Impact on Country Music

Country music and the Hawaiian steel guitar sound had a profound impact on each other. It is said that the popularity of the Hawaiian sound in country music can be attributed to the fact that it was easy to play and provided a unique twist to the traditional country sound. The Hawaiian sound brought a new dimension to country music and became a defining characteristic of the genre.

Development of the Pedal Steel Guitar

In the 1930s and 1940s, the Hawaiian steel guitar evolved into the pedal steel guitar with the introduction of the foot pedal that allowed players to change the pitch of the strings. This innovation made it possible to create new and more complex sounds and added to the popularity of the instrument.

Notable Artists

Numerous country music artists embraced the Hawaiian sound and incorporated it into their music. Some notable artists who helped to popularize this sound include Ernest Tubb, Hank Williams, Don Helms, and Jerry Byrd. These artists played an important role in bringing the Hawaiian steel guitar sound to the mainstream country music scene.

Enduring Legacy

The Hawaiian steel guitar sound had a lasting impact on country music and it is still heard today. Many modern country artists continue to incorporate this unique sound into their music. This enduring legacy is a testament to the influence that the Hawaiian steel guitar has had on country music over the last century.

Hawaiian Steel Guitar’s Impact on Country Music

As the sweet and soothing sounds of Hawaiian music spread to America, the country music scene was forever changed. The innovative use of the Hawaiian Steel Guitar in country music created a fusion that became an instant hit amongst audiences. Today, we dive deeper into the impact of this unique musical sound on country music. From inspiring guitarists to revolutionizing the evolution of electric country music, the influence of Hawaiian Steel Guitar in country music cannot be ignored. So, grab your favorite steel string guitar and let’s explore the profound impact of Hawaiian Steel Guitar on country music!

Influence on Country Music Guitarists

The impact of Hawaiian Steel Guitar on the sound of country music cannot be overstated. One of the main ways in which it has influenced the genre is through the playing styles of country music guitarists.

Many country guitarists have drawn inspiration from the unique sound of the steel guitar and incorporated its techniques into their own playing. This has led to an evolution in country guitar playing and a distinct subgenre of country music that incorporates the sound of the steel guitar.

Some notable guitarists who have been influenced by the steel guitar include Chet Atkins, Don Helms, and Buddy Emmons. Atkins, in particular, was heavily influenced by the sound of the steel guitar and often incorporated its techniques into his playing.

The steel guitar’s unique sound has also played a significant role in the development of the Nashville Sound, which emerged in the 1950s and 60s. This style of country music was characterized by lush orchestration and smooth vocal harmonies, and the steel guitar played a prominent role in creating the genre’s signature sound.

The steel guitar has inspired many guitarists to experiment with different tunings and techniques, which has led to the development of new playing styles and sounds in country music. For example, some guitarists use a technique called “chicken pickin’,” which involves using the fingers to pluck the strings in a staccato fashion.

The influence of the Hawaiian steel guitar on country music guitarists has been profound and continues to shape the genre to this day. Its unique sound and playing techniques have inspired countless musicians and helped to create a distinct subgenre of country music.

Below is the table of the main guitarists who have drawn inspiration from the sound of the steel guitar and incorporated its techniques into their playing:

Evolution of Electric Country Music

As the popularity of Hawaiian steel guitar spread across America, it quickly made its way into country music. The country music industry, in particular, saw huge potential in the unique sound of the steel guitar, and began incorporating it into their music.

This overlap gave birth to a new subgenre, commonly known as “Western Swing”. Western Swing is a fusion of old-time fiddle music, country, and jazzy swing music. It became popular in the 1930s and 40s and is known for its upbeat tempo and lively, danceable sound.

The Electric Guitar Changes the Game

The 1950s saw the rise of a new kind of guitar, the electric guitar. Electric guitars were heavier than acoustic guitars, and produced a stronger sound that could be heard above the other instruments in a band. The electric guitar’s versatility and amplification made it the perfect accompaniment for the steel guitar in country music.

The combination of steel and electric guitars created a distinctive sound that would become synonymous with country music. The electric guitar enabled guitarists to create a wider range of sounds, including the now-iconic twangy sound that characterizes many country songs.

The Evolution of American Music

The evolution of country music has been closely tied to the evolution of American music as a whole. Hawaiian steel guitar played a significant role in shaping country music, and the introduction of the electric guitar took it to new heights. Over the decades, country music has continued to evolve, incorporating elements of rock and roll, pop, and other genres.

Today, country music is one of the most popular genres of music in America, with millions of fans across the country. The steel guitar’s influence can still be heard in many modern country songs, with guitarists continuing to experiment with different techniques to create unique sounds.

Conclusion

The rise of Hawaiian steel guitar and the subsequent evolution of electric country music have left an indelible mark on American music. The fusion of these two distinct styles has created a sound that is uniquely American, and continues to captivate audiences to this day. As country music continues to evolve, one can only imagine the new sounds and styles that may emerge, but we can be certain that the influence of Hawaiian steel guitar will continue to be felt.

Conclusion

After examining the influence of Hawaiian steel guitar on electric guitar sound in country music, it is clear that this musical style played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of the genre. The unique sound of the steel guitar, with its haunting, melodic slides and ethereal quality, captured the imagination of both Hawaiian and American musicians alike.

Through tracing the roots of Hawaiian music and the development of the steel guitar in Hawaii, we uncovered how this distinctive musical style evolved and spread to America. From there, the fusion of Hawaiian and country music emerged, with the rise of artists such as Bob Wills and Patsy Cline.

The impact of Hawaiian steel guitar on country music can still be heard today, with contemporary artists such as Kacey Musgraves and Chris Stapleton drawing inspiration from the style. The evolution of electric country music, with amplified steel guitars and effects pedals, further demonstrates the lasting influence of this unique musical tradition.

Overall, the story of Hawaiian steel guitar’s impact on country music is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and the rich history of musical innovation. By celebrating and exploring the origins of this beloved style, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and creativity of the artists who shaped country music and the guitar sound we know today.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How did the steel guitar come to Hawaii?

The steel guitar was brought to Hawaii by Portuguese immigrant sailors in the 19th century, who adapted their traditional guitar playing into something new and unique.

2. What is the playing technique for Hawaiian steel guitar?

Hawaiian steel guitar is played using a slide, also known as a steel or tone bar, which is pressed against the strings of the guitar to change its pitch.

3. When did the steel guitar make its way to mainland America?

The steel guitar made its way to mainland America in the early 20th century, during the height of the Hawaiian music craze.

4. What impact did the Hawaiian steel guitar have on country music?

The Hawaiian steel guitar had a significant impact on country music, influencing the sound of guitar playing in the genre and paving the way for the development of the electric guitar.

5. Who were some of the first country music guitarists to incorporate Hawaiian steel guitar into their playing?

Some of the first country music guitarists to incorporate Hawaiian steel guitar into their playing include Jimmie Rodgers and Bob Wills.

6. How did the introduction of amplification change the sound of the steel guitar?

The introduction of amplification allowed for the steel guitar to be heard more clearly and with greater volume, leading to innovations in technique and sound for the instrument.

7. What is the difference between lap steel and pedal steel guitar?

Lap steel guitar is played in a horizontal position and uses a slide, while pedal steel guitar is played in a standing position and has multiple foot pedals and knee levers to change the pitch of the strings.

8. Who were some of the most influential steel guitarists in country music?

Some of the most influential steel guitarists in country music include Jerry Byrd, Buddy Emmons, and Lloyd Green.

9. How did country music audiences initially react to the sound of Hawaiian steel guitar?

Initial audience reactions to the sound of Hawaiian steel guitar in country music were mixed, with some critics calling it “weird” or “unpleasant,” but eventually its popularity grew and it became a defining characteristic of the genre.

10. How has the use of steel guitar in country music evolved over time?

Over time, the use of steel guitar in country music has evolved to incorporate different styles and techniques, with contemporary country artists using the instrument in both traditional and experimental ways.

References

• Steel Guitars: from Hawaii to Hank Williams – St. Olaf Pages