Pedal steel guitar

The pedal steel guitar is a sophisticated string instrument, iconic in country music, using pedals and levers to change pitch in real time.

About this subject

The pedal steel guitar is a complex electric string instrument that evolved from the Hawaiian lap steel, becoming a cornerstone of American country music. Unlike a standard guitar, it is played horizontally on legs, with a mechanism of pedals and knee levers that allow the player to change the pitch of specific strings while playing. This system enables smooth glissandos and precise bends, producing a distinctive weeping sound. The instrument gained prominence in the 1940s and 1950s, when innovators like Bud Isaacs and later Buddy Emmons developed the modern pedal steel. It typically features multiple necks (two or three), each with 8 to 12 strings, and the player uses a steel bar to press the strings while plucking them with a pick or fingers. Famous pedal steel players include Buddy Emmons, Pete Drake, and Paul Franklin, who have shaped the sound of countless country hits. The instrument has also been used in rock (e.g., by the Eagles and Led Zeppelin), blues, and jazz. Its construction is highly customizable, often handmade by specialized luthiers, and learning to play it is considered extremely difficult due to the coordination required for foot and knee movements. Despite challenges, the pedal steel remains a symbol of musical craftsmanship and expressiveness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a pedal steel guitar work?

A pedal steel guitar has foot pedals and knee levers that mechanically change the tension of specific strings, altering their pitch. The player uses a steel bar to press the strings and picks or fingers to sound them, enabling smooth bends and slides.

Which musicians are famous for playing pedal steel?

Buddy Emmons is a legendary player, along with Pete Drake, Ralph Mooney, and Paul Franklin. In rock, Sneaky Pete Kleinow is known for his work with the Flying Burrito Brothers.

What is the difference between lap steel and pedal steel?

A lap steel is simpler: it has no pedals or levers and is played horizontally on the lap. A pedal steel adds these mechanisms, allowing pitch changes during performance, making it more versatile and complex.