18 Resonator Guitarists You Need to Know ★ Acoustic Tuesday 292

What's better than 10 resonator guitarists (resonatorists?) to inspire your guitar journey? How about 18?

Today's episode is for those who are passionate about resonator guitars—those distinctive instruments that have captivated artists and audiences alike with their uniquely soulful, metallic timbre. If you've ever been captivated by that robust and twangy sound, you'll love this video as we delve into the works of 18 remarkable resonator guitarists who are bound to inspire you.

From well-known artists like the incredible Charlie Parr, known for his raw, authentic, and deeply emotive blues and folk music, to lesser-known yet immensely talented musicians like Sarah Rogo, who blends her compelling voice with expert slide guitar to create a truly mesmerizing experience.

Resonator guitars are unlike any other. Their unique construction features spun metal cones that amplify the strings' vibrations. They produce a sound that's both powerful and vibrant, exuding a sense of nostalgia and a certain rawness that's hard to replicate. This unique sound—part country, part blues, part old-timey music hall—has enamored audiences across generations, making them a beloved choice for musicians worldwide.

As we journey through this list, we'll dive into what makes each guitarist unique and how they utilize the resonator guitar to bring their music to life. Whether you're an experienced guitarist looking for some new inspiration, or a beginner interested in trying out the resonator guitar, this video is for you!

Featured in this episode...

#resonatorguitar #acousticguitar
00:00 - Intro
01:35 - 18 Resonatorists
19:08 - Acoustic Guitar News
25:48 - TAC Guitar Lick Challenge
30:18 - AMA pt. 2
39:00 - Acoustic Guitar News pt. 2

[vrydayric]

Justin Johnson is fantastic on…well, anything with strings from guitars to shovels. Great Resonator player. I love his dark swamp blues.

[AdrianBellue]

Always honored to be mentioned on your channel! You’re a pinnacle in the community, Tony!

[SarahRogo]

Aw no way! Thanks for featuring me and spreading the love 🥹

[monster]

Dell Ray. Wonderful person and one or the best reso players. She was a long time collaborator with Steve James.

[scottkidwellmusic]

This last January I recieved my Mule Resophonic Resonator... its pretty fantastic. I've been listening to Charlie Parr quite a bit, and I appreciate the list of resonator players to follow up on.

Great episode- thank you 🙏🏻

[FullRut]

Great episode! How would you suggest getting into playing a resonator guitar?

[fliprms]

This was an awesome show! What a great resource!

[LoveMyHoodie]

I always enjoy hearing John Hammond, one of my favorites is "Heart Attack & Vine"

[paulmann]

Justin Johnson (mentioned below) is a great guitar player and worthy of inclusion. Also Larkin Poe are great players too.

[MuireannBradley]

Tony, I just wanted to let you know that the great Steve James passed away on January 6th, maybe the show could pay tribute to him, he was an amazing guitarist, performer, songwriter, teacher & vintage guitar enthusiast.
The angels will be boogie woogieing and jelly rollin' ....
R.I.P Steve...

[FCain-mftf]

@Acoustic Life
I am paralyzed in a wheelchair and would like to have a squareneck resonator. Since I have never had one before what would you recommend?

[MadameM.]

Steve Dawson blew me away !! Beautiful song....thanks again for bringing yet another great musician to my attention! The last time? Colter Wall, baby. Been lovin' him ever since.

[sammaynard]

Hey Tony, I have had a resonator in my sights for a couple years. About a month ago I found a Beard Decophonic Model 37 Roundneck on Reverb. I cannot pick up anything else since. It has destroyed my guitarsenal! I don't know how to feel about that. How do I get back to just plain old wood? Please help

[johnreidroberts]

Mr. Polecastro!
I own an L-00 built by Jackson Cunningham and let me tell you his work is top notch to say the least! I have actually played the guitar in the raffle and the winner will definitely have a special instrument in their guitarsenal!
In addition to your list of resonator players I really like Bukka White’s unique style! Son House is a great guide for those wanting to begin their slide guitar journey. Also the YouTuber Edward Phillips is a fantastic reso-player!

Respectfully,
JR
North Carolina

[dharmaofdog]

I know a lot about Guitars but zero about Resonators. and more importantly, about their Players! (just made my List) Thank you Tony for yet another cool Video - there's ALWAYS something interesting to hear or learn at your place. :)

[craigwhitfield]

Another great show Tony! I'm surprised you didn't mention Jody Carroll. When he breaks out his Mule its pure magic. Also, in the square-back world there's Justin Moses. Absolute monster on the Dobro. As a plus, Justin's married to Sierra Hull. Love TAC and love your passion and inspiration!!!

[quadracergirl]

Eric Sardinas is at the top of my list. I don't think I would've ever heard of him, except I saw him open for Steve Vai several years ago. Oh my gosh, I have no words....Love him!

[gregweber]

In the AMA part 2 section, Tony read a question from Matthew Lee who said the majority of his acoustic guitars are from Amazon and under the $200 mark. Shortly after I started playing guitar again last August, zZounds had an Epiphone DR-100 on sale for $139 last October. Even at the full price of $169, these are really great guitars on a budget. I'm always impressed how good this guitar sounds. I've since bought a new Martin D-X2E, which I keep in the case to protect it when not in use. I keep the Epiphone DR-100 on a guitar stand next to my desk and I often reach for it when I want to practice or try out a new song. I really enjoy playing it. 🙂 Check out Acoustic Tuesday episode 248. Tony covered his 10 favorite Epiphone guitars and this model was #4.

[jed]

Justin Johnson… great “swampy” blues sound!

[guitars]

Cool show. I don’t have a favorite resonator player. I’m discovering them all through you. Also, thanks for the info on the handmade music school. I donated to the school and took a chance on the guitar.