Johnson cigar box guitar

Today we talk about Johnson cigar box guitar.

Introduction to Johnson Cigar Box Guitars

Stepping into the world of Johnson cigar box guitars felt like unlocking a treasure chest of musical history. When I first held my cigar box guitar, I was surprised to learn that these instruments date back to the mid-1800s, crafted from repurposed materials. Over 100,000 cigar box guitars are estimated to be made each year, with Johnson being one of the most recognized brands. Their unique sounds and styles resonate deeply within the blues and folk communities, making them a favorite among both beginners and seasoned musicians like myself.

Why Choose a Johnson Cigar Box Guitar?

The decision to choose a Johnson cigar box guitar over conventional guitars is influenced by several key factors:

Abordabilité: Johnson cigar box guitars range from $100 à $500, a fraction of what high-end acoustic or electric guitars cost, making it accessible for everyone.
Portability: Weighing significantly less than traditional guitars (à propos 3-5 livres), they are easy to carry for jam sessions or outdoor shows.
Unique Sound: The cigar box design allows for a distinctive tonal quality that’s perfect for blues, folk, and even rock music.
Artistry: Each instrument is handcrafted, making each Johnson cigar box guitar a one-of-a-kind piece, backing its value with creativity.

Features of the Johnson Cigar Box Guitar

Matériaux utilisés dans la construction

The materials used in constructing a Johnson cigar box guitar significantly impact its sound and durability. Common materials I’ve noticed are:

Cigar Boxes: Typically made from wood types like cedar ou mahogany, which provide warm, resonant tones. This choice is crucial because it directly influences the guitar’s acoustic properties.
Necks: Usually crafted from maple or poplar, these woods ensure stability and longevity. They often have a thickness of about 1 inch for comfort.
Cordes: Most models use steel strings, providing a bright sound ideal for fingerpicking or slide guitar styles.

Available Models and Variations

Johnson cigar box guitars come in various popular models that cater to different musical preferences:

3-String Cigar Box Guitar: Ideal for blues enthusiasts who appreciate slide techniques and simplicity.
4-String Cigar Box Guitar: Offers versatility in tuning options, perfect for players transitioning from other guitar types.
Electric Variants: These models enable amplification, allowing for greater sound projection during performances. Sales for electric cigar box guitars have notably increased by 25% in the last five years.

How to Play a Johnson Cigar Box Guitar

Basic Techniques for Beginners

When I first started playing my Johnson cigar box guitar, I focused on foundational techniques that set the tone for my learning:

Chords: I learned major and minor chords, which are essential for playing many songs.
Strumming Patterns: Simple downstrokes created an engaging rhythm, making play sessions enjoyable.
Fingerpicking: This technique is often easier on a cigar box guitar, allowing a person to experiment with melodies.

Advanced Playing Techniques

After gaining some experience, I moved on to more advanced techniques that truly help in expressing my musicality:

Slide Guitar: Using a slide bar has added a soulful quality to my playing, typical in blues music.
Fingerstyle: Combining melody and harmony allows for a fuller sound, something I found exciting.
Improvisation: The flexibility of the instrument makes it ideal for spontaneous creativity during jam sessions.

Maintenance and Care for Your Guitar

Cleaning and Keeping Your Guitar in Top Shape

Regular maintenance of my Johnson cigar box guitar keeps it sounding its best. Some practical steps I follow include:

Dusting: I use a microfiber cloth to gently remove dust and debris after each session, preventing buildup.
Polishing: I apply guitar polish every few months to protect the wood and give it a fresh look.
Storage: Keeping it in a suitable case, ideally at temperatures between 60°F and 75°F, helps maintain the wood’s integrity.

String Maintenance and Replacement Tips

Taking care of the strings on my Johnson cigar box guitar is essential to maintain sound quality. Here’s what I’ve learned:

Wipe Down Strings: Every time I finish playing, I wipe them with a cloth to prevent corrosion.
Regular Replacement: For frequent players, replacing strings every 2-4 weeks ensures optimal tone.
Tuning: I check the tuning routinely, as older strings can lose pitch stability, ideally before every play.

Accessories for Your Johnson Cigar Box Guitar

Recommended Guitar Picks and Strings

The right accessories enhance the overall playability of my Johnson cigar box guitar. My recommendations include:

Picks: Experimenting with thin to thick picks helped me find the perfect match for my playing style.
Cordes: I prefer light gauge strings for easier playability on my cigar box guitar.

Cigar Box Guitar Cases and Holders

To protect my investment, I chose the right carrying options. Consider these types:

Hard Cases: Offer maximum protection and durability for transporting my guitar.
Soft Gig Bags: These are convenient for short trips or casual sessions at friends’ houses.

Popular Songs to Play on a Johnson Cigar Box Guitar

Traditional Blues Songs

Learning traditional blues songs on my Johnson cigar box guitar revitalizes the music. Some great classics include:

“Hoochie Coochie Man”
“Sweet Home Chicago”

Contemporary Covers

To keep my repertoire fresh, I also cover modern tunes. A couple of my favorites are:

“Wonderwall” by Oasis
“Take Me to Church” by Hozier

Customizing Your Johnson Cigar Box Guitar

Add-ons and Modifications

Exploring customization options for my Johnson cigar box guitar has been a fun process. Here’s how I tailored it:

Pickup Installation: Adding a pickup allowed me to amplify the sound, enhancing my playing during performances.
Different Tunings: I experimented with open tunings which opened up new possibilities for songwriting.

Personalization Options

Expressing my personality through my guitar is satisfying. I’ve opted for:

Custom Paint: Adding my design made the guitar feel uniquely mine.
Engraved Plates: Including personalized hardware made it stand out even more.

Where to Buy Johnson Cigar Box Guitars

Online Retailers and Stores

Acquiring my Johnson cigar box guitar was straightforward, thanks to various options:

Amazone: I found various choices with reliable user reviews.
Etsy: Excellent for sourcing handmade and unique designs from different artisans.
Local Music Shops: Have a great selection and allow you to physically test the instrument before buying.

Used vs. New Options

I have experienced both used and new Johnson cigar box guitars. Purchasing used can yield unique finds that have character, though new guitars come with warranties and assured quality. Always assess the condition of used instruments.

Connecting with the Cigar Box Guitar Community

Online Forums and Groups

Engaging with other cigar box guitar enthusiasts has been invaluable. Some platforms I frequent include:

Facebook Groups: These often have discussions on techniques and share music resources.
Reddit: Sizeable communities dedicated to cigar box guitar enthusiasts provide tips, ask questions, and share music.

Local Events and Workshops

Connecting face-to-face at various events enhances my experience. I attend:

Local Jams: Informal gatherings where various skill levels come together to share music.
Workshops: Opportunities to learn new skills or techniques, typically hosted by local musicians or experts.

Learning Resources

Books and Online Courses

Investing time in learning resources greatly improved my skills. I utilized:

Books: Manuals like “Cigar Box Guitar Made Simple” help beginners navigate the basics.
Online Courses: Platforms like Udemy offer structured lessons specifically for cigar box guitar players.

Tutorial Videos and Online Lessons

YouTube has become a fantastic learning environment for me. I rely on:

Tutorials: Detailed guides tailored for the cigar box guitar are a great resource.
Performance Videos: Watching advanced players inspire my technique and creativity.

Conclusion

Embracing Your Johnson Cigar Box Guitar Journey

My journey with the Johnson cigar box guitar has been rich and rewarding. As I continue to explore new songs, techniques, and connections within the community, I invite you to embrace your own musical journey and let the cigar box guitar inspire your creativity.

FAQ

Is a cigar box guitar hard to play?

No, I found that the Johnson cigar box guitar is quite beginner-friendly, offering a gentle learning curve with its accessible chords and techniques.

Did Jimi Hendrix play a cigar box guitar?

No, Jimi Hendrix did not specifically play a cigar box guitar; however, the music preceding his era heavily influenced the blues and rock styles he perfected.