Simple Man — Lynyrd Skynyrd1 / 2
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Simple Man Solo Guitar Tone Settings — Lynyrd Skynyrd

Lynyrd Skynyrd · 1970s · rock

studio

Original Recording

Guitar
Gibson Les Paul Standard (1959 reissue or original, sunburst finish, humbuckers)
Pickups
Gibson PAF humbuckers
Amp
Marshall 1959T Super Tremolo (100-watt head, likely into a 4x12 cabinet)
Pickup Position
Neck pickup

Studio recording, 1973. Gary Rossington played the solo on the original studio version of 'Simple Man' using his Les Paul and Marshall 1959T Super Tremolo. No evidence of pedals or effects other than possible amp spring reverb. No evidence of Peavey Mace or other amps for this track on the original album. No evidence of pedals used in the solo section. All sources agree the tone is mostly amp-driven with minimal effects.

Amp Settings

Mids
7
Bass
6.5
Gain
5.5
Reverb
2.5
Treble
6.5
Presence
6

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Tone Character

  • singing sustain
  • warm and smooth
  • midrange-focused
  • classic British crunch
  • touch-sensitive
  • open and dynamic
  • clear note separation
  • slightly compressed
  • not overly saturated
  • vocal-like phrasing

Notes & Caveats

  • ⚠️No specific numeric amp settings for 'Simple Man' solo found in sources; values estimated based on typical Marshall Super Lead settings for classic rock in the 1970s.
  • ⚠️No evidence of pedals or effects used on the solo section; all sources indicate amp-only tone.
  • ⚠️Some sources mention Peavey Mace and other amps for later live use, but for the original studio recording, Marshall 1959T Super Tremolo is confirmed.
  • ⚠️Pickup choice inferred from tone and era; most sources and isolated tracks indicate neck pickup for solo.
  • ⚠️Reverb setting estimated as low, based on typical Marshall amp use and lack of audible heavy reverb in the solo.
  • ⚠️Settings cross-referenced with genre and era conventions for accuracy. The 'Simple Man' solo tone is classic Southern rock: edge-of-breakup with warmth and sustain, likely a Marshall or Peavey with moderate gain, strong mids, and a touch of reverb. The era and genre favor forward mids, round bass, and balanced treble/presence for clarity without harshness.

Sources