Reeves Gabrels

Reeves Gabrels is an American guitarist, songwriter, and producer known for his innovative approach to guitar playing and his collaborations with iconic artists such as David Bowie. Here are some facts about him:

1. Early Life and Musical Influences: Reeves Gabrels was born on June 4, 1956, in Staten Island, New York. He grew up surrounded by music and began playing guitar at a young age. Gabrels drew inspiration from a wide range of musical genres, including rock, blues, jazz, and experimental music. He was particularly influenced by guitarists like Jimi Hendrix, Jeff Beck, and Robert Fripp, whose innovative playing styles would later shape Gabrels' own approach to the instrument.

2. Collaboration with David Bowie: Reeves Gabrels is perhaps best known for his collaboration with legendary musician David Bowie. Gabrels joined Bowie's band in the late 1980s and played a key role in shaping the sound of several of Bowie's albums, including "Outside" (1995), "Earthling" (1997), and "Hours..". (1999). Gabrels' distinctive guitar playing, characterized by its use of effects pedals, unconventional techniques, and adventurous improvisation, added a unique dimension to Bowie's music and earned him widespread acclaim as a guitarist.

3. Solo Career and Projects: In addition to his work with David Bowie, Reeves Gabrels has pursued a successful solo career and collaborated with various artists on a wide range of projects. He has released several solo albums, including "The Sacred Squall of Now" (1995) and "Ulysses (Della Notte)" (2018), which showcase his virtuosic guitar playing and adventurous songwriting. Gabrels has also collaborated with artists such as The Cure's Robert Smith, Tin Machine, and The Imaginary Friends, further expanding his musical horizons and exploring new creative territories.

4. Innovative Guitar Techniques: Reeves Gabrels is known for his innovative approach to guitar playing, which combines elements of rock, blues, jazz, and experimental music. He is renowned for his use of effects pedals, which he employs to create a wide range of sounds and textures, from ethereal ambience to blistering distortion. Gabrels' playing style is characterized by its technical precision, expressive phrasing, and willingness to push the boundaries of conventional guitar playing, earning him recognition as one of the most innovative guitarists of his generation.

5. Continued Influence and Legacy: Reeves Gabrels' contributions to music, both as a solo artist and as a collaborator with David Bowie and other artists, have left an indelible mark on the music world. His fearless approach to experimentation, willingness to challenge musical conventions, and virtuosic guitar playing have inspired countless musicians and earned him a devoted following among fans of innovative and boundary-pushing music. As he continues to explore new creative avenues and push the boundaries of his art, Reeves Gabrels remains a visionary force in the world of music.