Kenny Smith Bluegrass Guitar Strings
Oct 14th 2024
About Kenny Smith
He may have a common name, but the music and sound of Kenny Smith are uncommon indeed. He’s been a professional bluegrass guitarist for over 30 years, winning two International Bluegrass Music Association Guitarist of the Year awards along the way. After stints with Claire Lynch and the Front Porch Stringband and The Lonesome River Band, Smith has collaborated with his wife Amanda since 2001, releasing seven albums together and appearing on many others.
Growing up in Nine Mile, Indiana, Kenny was part of a musical family as his grandfather and father played the fiddle. Kenny took up the guitar when he was four and would listen to old Norman Blake albums, transposing the fiddle parts to guitar. This developed the finger-work necessary for his energetic yet fluid solos. In addition to touring with his wife and Band of Ruhks, Smith is also a respected guitar teacher, offering master classes, private lessons and online workshops to help others learn the craft.
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What Guitar Strings Does Kenny Smith Play?
Although Kenny Smith is a bluegrass player, he pulls off his sound using D’Addario EJ22 XL Jazz Medium Strings on his acoustic and electric guitars. Smith primarily plays vintage guitars, and he needs a string that’s going to emphasize those older tones instead of adding overtones that muddy the waters. EJ22 round wound strings achieve this, combining a bright nickel-wrapped tone with a smooth feel and fast action. The medium gauge is great for strumming and the stellar intonation lasts for show after show during Kenny’s busy schedule.
Follow Kenny Smith
Kenny Smith’s official website