Tone Talk with BLAKE RED: Exploring Guitar Tone, Gear, and Authenticity

AS SEEN IN GUITAR GIRL MAGAZINE
SPRING 2024 EDITION

My name is Camille McClellan, and my artist’s name and alter ego is called BLAKE RED. The first time I picked up an electric guitar and dialed in some distortion was truly the instant I became fully enthralled with the instrument and its infinite possibilities.

Bands including Alice in Chains, Megadeth, and Tool have influenced my sound and tone, especially as heard on my debut EP, SOS: Songs on Suicide. As an artist, I strive to explore new horizons with each song I write and expand upon my past work. I love experimenting with different time signatures, like my song “The Cradle,” and different styles, like a funk-inspired groove in the song “The Darkness ft. Nona Hendryx” or the pop-rock style power ballad called “Follow Me” (each song is from my second EP titled The Cradle). I have two or three brand new songs that I’m finishing up and have coming out later this year [2024]!

What is your definition of tone, and how has it changed over the years?

I think tone is definitely something unique to each individual musician. It’s a combination of the player’s physical touch, personal finesse, and stylistic choices, along with the specific instrument/gear channeling everything together into a sound. Over the years, I’ve tweaked and improved certain aspects of my playing technique that no guitar, amp, or pedal could magically do for me. As a younger guitar player, I felt the need to hide behind massive amounts of gain. Through gigging and recording, I’ve learned that less is more when it comes to effects, both for the sound and physical weight on my back.

Which guitars, amps, and pedals are you currently using and why?

I got my Gibson Les Paul and Fender Stratocaster on the same day in 2013, and those two guitars have been my loyal studio and live workhorses ever since. The LP is gritty and razor-edged, great for blistering leads and chunky rhythm, while the Strat is more sonically punchy and tonally versatile. My Stratocaster has a humbucker pickup in the bridge, so I can get some heavier tones from it as well.

My newer guitars include a beautiful blue Gibson SG and a PRS SE Baritone. My main amp for recording and gigging is a Marshall JVM 210 half stack. I love the different channels and the warm sound of the tubes.

I have way too many pedals! The Dunlop Jerry Cantrell Signature Wah, MXR Super Badass distortion, Dunlop Rotovibe, and MXR Carbon Copy Delay are a few that are always on my pedalboard for BLAKE RED. I also love the BOSS Super Chorus. I’m able to get some really unique and satisfying tones when I blend them together.

What about strings?

My go-to strings have always been D’Adarrio. I use 10s on my standard-tuned guitars and 11s for drop tunings.

Are there certain recording techniques you prefer in the studio?

I’m somewhat obsessive about pre-production. I always produce full demos of my songs prior to stepping foot in a studio. I like blending my Marshall with other miscellaneous amps hanging around the studio and have stumbled across some killer tones that way. I also record with more than one guitar, so all of those unique tones are overdubbed and combined into one massive sound.

How do you keep your sound consistent onstage?

It’s mostly the small things like having a reliable power supply, keeping all cables and wires healthy, and replacing them when necessary. Keeping up with the necessary maintenance on guitars and amps is a must! Also, keeping note of my amp and effects settings.

What does your practice consist of?

I like to warm up with scales and patterns up and down the fretboard. I’m currently trying to improve my lead playing technique and create little exercises that help me build endurance, speed, and dexterity.

What is your advice for young artists who hope to work in the music industry?

Bring what you have that is different and special to the table! Don’t be afraid to show the world who you are. You don’t have to be anyone but yourself, and you will find space in the music world that is meant just for you.

Learn more about Blake Red at blakered.com.