In a recent interview, legendary guitarist Michael Schenker shares his thoughts on revisiting his classic songs, his approach to guitar playing, and the possibility of an official Michael Schenker Gibson model.
Michael Schenker, the renowned German guitar virtuoso, played a pivotal role in pushing the boundaries of hard rock in the 1970s. Building on the work of icons like Jimmy Page, Tony Iommi, and Ritchie Blackmore, Schenker brought a new level of intensity and technical prowess to the genre. By the time Eddie Van Halen burst onto the scene with his band’s debut in 1978, Schenker had already released two albums with Scorpions and four with UFO.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of Schenker’s first album with UFO, and to celebrate, he has re-recorded select tracks from his early years with the band. The album, titled My Years With UFO, will be released on September 20 via earMUSIC. Far from being a mere nostalgic trip, the album features updated versions of classic tracks with enhanced production, showcasing Schenker’s legendary riffs and solos.
The project also boasts an impressive lineup of guest musicians, including Slash, Axl Rose, Joey Tempest, and John Norum, among others. For Schenker, the album is a celebration of the music he created early in his career, with a fresh twist for a new generation of fans.
Reflecting on the potential for an official Michael Schenker Gibson model, the guitarist expressed his enthusiasm: “I believe an official Michael Schenker Gibson model would bring joy to many fans.” This statement underscores his enduring influence in the world of rock music.
Schenker also discussed his approach to guitar playing, noting that he doesn’t consider himself a technical player. Instead, he prefers to rely on instinct and emotion, making his performances feel effortless and spontaneous.
As Schenker continues to celebrate his remarkable career, fans can look forward to hearing his classic songs reimagined for today’s audience, along with the possibility of owning a guitar model inspired by the man who helped shape the sound of hard rock.
