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Riff Tone

Honky Tonk Women

The Rolling Stones

Guitarrock1960s

Original Gear

Guitar1950s Fender Telecaster (likely 'Micawber', 5-string, open G tuning, low E removed)
AmpAmpeg VT-22 (studio recording, as per period-correct sources and Equipboard)

Amp Settings

gain3.5
bass4.5

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Effects & Signal Chain

Notes

Studio recording, 1969. Keith Richards played the main riff on a 1950s Fender Telecaster ('Micawber') in open G tuning with the low E string removed. Ampeg VT-22 amp used in studio. No evidence of pedals or additional effects in the riff section. Pickup selection likely neck (PAF humbucker) for the signature tone.

Tone Character(10)
bright and percussiveedge-of-breakup crunchclear, punchy rhythmcountry-tinged attackopen and airyminimal sustainslightly grittyarticulate single notesdynamic response to pickingclassic Stones 'cut through the mix' sound

Difficulty

The riff is iconic but relies on open G tuning and a percussive, syncopated rhythm that requires good muting and timing. Not technically difficult, but stylistically demanding for authentic feel.

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