It’s Women’s History Month and we wanted to talk to some of our favorites about their gear and tone setup(s). If you are not familiar with Guitar Girl Magazine’s “Tone Talk” series, this is where we dive into what makes the tone of different musicians’ setups unique to them. We unpack their likes and dislikes and what makes their setup perfect.
If you like what you read, check out Tasha’s Tone Talk on our IG page where she walks through some of her favorite gear.
Tasha Marie is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from London, England. She started playing a variety of instruments from childhood and was writing/composing songs by the age of 11. Tasha Marie has been playing guitar for 12 years, amassing experiences such as playing in a church ministry, working as a session musician and gigging as a solo artist. Tasha Marie is currently learning music production and working on her first EP titled ‘My Identity’.
What is your definition of tone, and how has it changed over the years?
I define tone as a musician’s signature sound or fingerprint that is unique to them. I have multiple definitions!
I didn’t really know much about tone when I first started guitar – I just liked distortion and loads of effects on everything. Nowadays, I usually prefer warm & simplistic tones. But I have different preferences for specific genres.
Which guitars, amps, and pedals are you currently using and why?
My main guitar is my PRS SE Custom 24. It gives me the warm tones I like, but is also versatile if I need a very different tone. I use minimal pedals. I work with the Chord CH-50, Crybaby GCB95 and Boss Metal Core ML-2. I usually play funk, rock and reggae – those pedals carry those genres perfectly.
The main acoustic guitar that I gig with is an Ashton J59S. It has a rich and twangy tone.
The main amp that I gig with is a Vox VT20+. It is perfect and practical for when I gig in a variety of venues and works well with acoustic guitar as well.
What about strings?
Ernie Ball Slinkys are my favorite, specifically the .9s. I use Rotosound JK12s for my acoustic guitar.
Are there certain recording techniques you prefer in the studio?
I like to experiment. Sometimes I use plugins and features on Ableton. But when it comes to riffs that need heavy distortion or wah – I prefer to record with the pedals directly instead.
How do you keep your sound consistent onstage?
I tend to keep the levels the same on my guitar, pedals and amp. When I’m playing with a band, I use an additional volume pedal as the master control, then adjust it accordingly.
What does your practice consist of?
I usually start off with a warm up, then focus on modes and improv. I incorporate new chords, techniques & music theory.
After that, I work on the songs that I’m learning or practice my originals.
What is your advice for young women who hope to work in the music industry?
Embrace what makes you unique – that is where your strength and power resides. Don’t allow anything or anyone to break your spirit or kill your confidence. You will face challenges, resistance and arrogance as a woman in the industry. But you’ve got what it takes to achieve your dreams, so go and get yours!
Follow Tasha Marie on IG @TashaMarieMusic
Check out Tasha’s Tone Talk video here