ToneAdapt

Loading...

Back to Community

Riff Tone

Everybody Wants to Rule the World

Tears for Fears

Guitarrock1980s

Original Gear

GuitarTokai AST (Stratocaster-style, blue headstock, as seen in official video and cited for studio recording)
AmpRoland JC-120 Jazz Chorus

Amp Settings

gain0
bass6

Create an account to see all tone details

Create Free Account

Effects & Signal Chain

Notes

Studio recording, 1984-1985. Guitar and amp confirmed via Equipboard and video evidence. Pedalboard built by Pete Cornish for Orzabal included Boss CS-2, SD-1, CE-2, VB-2, and delay. Chorus effect is a signature part of the riff. No evidence of live rig for this part; all data refers to studio recording.

Tone Character(10)
bright and glassylush chorus modulationclean and articulatetight, percussive attackspacious and wide stereo imageshimmering top endcompressed but dynamicdistinctive 80s pop clarityno audible overdrivequacky Strat position

Difficulty

The riff requires intermediate skill due to its syncopated rhythm, clean picking, and the need for precise muting and chord voicings to achieve the iconic sound.

Create an account to adapt this tone to your gear

Create Free Account