How Reggie Young Reshaped Merle Haggard’s Sound with a Strat
Reggie Young may be one of the most recorded guitarists in history—but did you know he played a 1957 Stratocaster on Merle Haggard’s Back to the Barrooms album? In this video, we dig into Reggie's tasteful, understated Strat work that helped shape the tone and feel of one of Haggard’s most emotional and booze-soaked records.We'll talk about:The tone Reggie got from his StratHow his playing elevated tracks like “Makeup & Faded Blue Jeans” “I Think I’ll Just Stay Here and Drink,” and “Leonard.”To Support the Channel:Patreon https://www.patreon.com/AskZacTip jar: https://paypal.me/AskZacVenmo @AskZac Or check out my store for merch - https://my-store-be0243.creator-spring.com/Support the show
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The TC Electronic Chorus Pedal Makes a Comeback
I didn’t think I’d be adding a chorus pedal back to my board… until a recent session totally changed my mind.In this video, I talk about the TC Electronic Stereo Chorus Flanger — a pedal that quietly shaped the Nashville sound in the '80s and '90s. It was originally built in Denmark back in 1976 as a studio-friendly chorus with super low noise and a clean, transparent sound. Turns out, that clarity is exactly what made it a favorite for tons of session players — and even guys like Eric Johnson for his legendary clean tone.After dusting one off in the studio recently, I remembered why this thing was so loved — and now it’s officially earned its spot back on my board.If you’re into that classic shimmer or just curious why chorus is cool again, stick around.To Support the Channel:Patreon https://www.patreon.com/AskZacTip jar: https://paypal.me/AskZacVenmo @AskZac Or check out my store for merch - https://my-store-be0243.creator-spring.com/Support the show
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Reviving My 1981 Martin HD-28 with New Frets, Waverly Tuners, K&K Pickup & More!
My favorite acoustic guitar—a 1981 Martin HD-28—just received a full upgrade while also bringing it a little closer to the timeless tone and vintage character of a true 1940s Martin. In this video, I walk you through the complete restoration and customization process, including:• Fresh frets for smoother playability, improved tone, and better intonation. .085X.050 Fretwire• Waverly open-back tuners for a vintage-correct look, lighter weight, and improved break angle at the nut• Removal of the 1990s Fishman Matrix under saddle pickup and installation of the more transparent, passive K&K Pure Mini• A new bone nut and saddle for increased tonal clarity and responsiveness• A vintage-style Holter tortoiseshell pickguard to restore the classic herringbone-era aesthetichttps://holterpickguards.com/Follow us on https://www.instagram.com/askzac/ for more guitar content.To Support the Channel:Patreon https://www.patreon.com/AskZacTip jar: https://paypal.me/AskZacVenmo @AskZac Or check out my store for merch - https://my-store-be0243.creator-spring.com/Support the show
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Which Pickups Should I Put in My Telecaster?
The #1 Question I Get: “What Pickups Should I Put in My Telecaster?”In this video, I break down the key questions you should ask yourself before buying pickups — whether you're upgrading or starting from scratch. This guide will help you make smarter choices and communicate more effectively with pickup winders.I also cover:The differences between flat pole ’50s-style and staggered pole ’60s-style pickupsRecommendations at various price pointsHow much saddles and the tone control really matter to your final soundWhether you're chasing vintage twang or modern bite, this will help you get closer to your Tele tone.To Support the Channel:Patreon https://www.patreon.com/AskZacTip jar: https://paypal.me/AskZacVenmo @AskZac Or check out my store for merch - https://my-store-be0243.creator-spring.com/Support the show
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Meet Nashville Guitar Great: Matthew Lee
Meet Nashville Guitar Great: Matthew LeeIf you’ve strolled down Broadway in Nashville, chances are you have heard the unmistakable sound of Matthew Lee—an exceptional guitarist whose chops are as sharp as his tone.Matthew shares the story of how music first grabbed hold of him, what led him to Music City, and the major influences that shaped his sound. He also gives us a look at some of his favorite gear, including his go-to axes from Lucky Dog and Crook Custom Guitars.Want to dive deeper? Check out his instructional book from Hal Leonard and explore his top-tier lessons over on TrueFire. Whether you’re a player or a fan , Matthew’s insights are pure gold.Subscribe for more vintage gear stories and rare finds!Follow us on https://www.instagram.com/askzac/ for more guitar content.To Support the Channel:Patreon https://www.patreon.com/AskZacTip jar: https://paypal.me/AskZacVenmo @AskZac Or check out my store for merch - https://my-store-be0243.creator-spring.com/#MatthewLee #NashvilleGuitarist #BroadwayNashville #LuckyDogGuitars #CrookCustomGuitars #GuitarGear #HalLeonard #TrueFire #CountryGuitar #GuitarLifehttps://www.matthewleeguitar.com/Support the show
Zac Childs is a music insider and historian. He is the host of the acclaimed Truetone Lounge interview series and contributed to Vintage Guitar Magazine for 15 years via his Ask Zac column, and numerous featured articles, product reviews, and cover stories. On his ASK ZAC channel, Zac takes a look at players and gear and also answers guitar-related questions in ways that were never possible via print.
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