Guitars have long been an iconic symbol of the music world, captivating audiences with their soulful melodies and stunning performances. But did you know that guitars are also known by another name? That’s right – guitars are often referred to as “axe” by musicians and fans alike.
The term “axe” has its roots in the world of blues and rock music, where musicians would use their guitars to create powerful and expressive sounds. The guitar became a tool for these artists to channel their emotions and unleash their creativity, much like a lumberjack would wield an axe to cut through wood.
This connection between the guitar and the axe has become something of a legend in the music industry. Musicians often speak of “shredding” on their axe, using the instrument as a vehicle for their musical prowess. The guitar becomes an extension of the artist, allowing them to communicate and connect with their audience in a way that is unique and powerful.
Is a guitar called an axe?
No, a guitar is not typically referred to as an “axe.” The term “axe” is slang for a guitar and is used to emphasize the instrument’s power and impact. This term originated in rock and roll culture and is commonly associated with electric guitars. While some musicians may use the term casually, it is not commonly used in formal or professional settings.
The term “axe” is believed to have originated in the 1960s and 1970s, when rock musicians, particularly those in heavy metal bands, adopted the term to convey the raw energy and intensity of their music. The guitar was seen as their weapon of choice, hence the comparison to an axe. However, it is important to note that not all guitarists or music enthusiasts use this term, and it is primarily used in certain subcultures or specific contexts.
![Gerber Gear 23.5-Inch Axe [31-002651]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/21GBrm0zRHL._SS520_.jpg)
In general, the term “guitar” is the most commonly used and recognized term for the instrument. It is a versatile stringed instrument that comes in various forms, including acoustic, electric, and bass guitars. The term “guitar” is widely accepted and understood by musicians, music enthusiasts, and the general public alike.
While the term “axe” may be used colloquially or in certain contexts, it is not the standard or official term for a guitar. Therefore, if you are referring to a guitar in a formal or professional setting, it is best to use the term “guitar” to avoid any confusion or misunderstanding.
Origins of the term
The term “axe” in reference to guitars has its origins in popular music culture. The analogy between a guitar and an axe dates back to the 1950s, when electric guitars started gaining popularity.
One possible explanation for the term is that electric guitars have a shape that resembles the blade of an axe, with a long neck and a body that widens at the bottom, creating a similar outline. This similarity in shape might have led musicians to refer to their guitars as “axes”.
Another theory suggests that the term “axe” is a metaphor for the power and impact that a guitar can have in a musical performance. Just like an axe can cut through wood, a guitar can cut through the noise of a band and make a strong impact on the audience.
The term was popularized in the rock and roll era, with many guitarists referring to their instruments as “axes” in interviews and onstage banter. The term has since become widely used and is now commonly associated with guitars in the music industry.
The term “axe” in popular culture
The term “axe” has become a part of pop culture and is often used colloquially to refer to guitars. It is commonly used among musicians, guitar enthusiasts, and fans of rock music. The term has also been embraced by guitar manufacturers and marketers, who often include the word “axe” in the names of their guitar models to evoke a sense of power and coolness.
Additionally, the term “axe” has been used metaphorically to describe the skill and virtuosity of a guitar player. A guitarist who is exceptionally talented and proficient with the instrument is often referred to as a “guitar axe” or a “guitar virtuoso”. This usage highlights the association between the term and the idea of mastery and excellence in guitar playing.
Conclusion
The term “axe” is a colloquial and metaphorical term that originated in popular music culture to refer to guitars. Its origins can be traced back to the 1950s and it has since become a widely used term in the music industry. The analogy between a guitar and an axe is based on the similarities in shape and the powerful impact that a guitar can have in a musical performance.
Historical references
In historical records, the guitar is often referred to as an “axe”, particularly in the context of blues and rock music. This nickname originated from the powerful and aggressive sound that guitars produce, resembling the chopping motions of an axe. The term “axe” became popularized in the 1960s and 1970s, during the heyday of guitar-driven rock bands.
One of the earliest references to guitars as “axes” can be found in the song “Johnny B. Goode” by Chuck Berry, released in 1958. In the lyrics, Berry sings, “
Modern usage and popular culture
In modern usage, the term “axe” is occasionally used as a slang term to refer to guitars. This usage originates from the idea that a guitar can be a powerful tool in the hands of a skilled musician, just like an axe can be a powerful tool in the hands of a lumberjack. However, it should be noted that this slang term is not widely used and is primarily limited to certain subcultures and communities.
Despite its limited usage, the term “axe” has made its way into popular culture through various mediums. In movies and television shows, it is not uncommon to hear characters referring to their guitars as axes. This usage helps to create a sense of coolness, rebelliousness, and musical prowess.
The “guitar hero” phenomenon
One of the main reasons for the increased popularity of the term “axe” in relation to guitars is the rise of the video game series “Guitar Hero.” Released in 2005, this game allowed players to simulate playing a guitar by using a specially designed controller. The game was a massive success and helped to introduce a new generation of players to the world of guitar music.
As a result of the game’s influence, many players started using the term “axe” to refer to their virtual guitars in the game. This usage then spilled over into real-life situations, with players referring to their actual guitars as “axes.” The game also helped to popularize guitar-based rock music and further cement the connection between guitars and the term “axe.”
Influence on guitar design and marketing
The use of the term “axe” to refer to guitars has also had an influence on guitar design and marketing. Many guitar manufacturers now use the term in their product descriptions and advertising campaigns to appeal to a younger, more edgy demographic.
Guitar designs have also been influenced by the concept of an axe. Some guitars feature designs that resemble the shape of an axe, with sharp angles and aggressive styling. This helps to emphasize the powerful and empowering nature of the instrument.
- Conclusion
In conclusion, while guitars are occasionally referred to as axes in certain subcultures and communities, this usage is not widespread. However, the term has made its way into popular culture through media such as movies and television shows. The rise of the “Guitar Hero” video game series also contributed to the increased usage of the term. This usage has had an impact on guitar design and marketing, with some manufacturers incorporating the term “axe” into their branding. Regardless of the term used, the guitar remains an iconic and versatile instrument in the world of music.
