David Gilmour’s Black Strat is one of the most famous guitars in rock history. Used extensively throughout his career with Pink Floyd, this heavily modified Fender Stratocaster became his primary instrument for recording some of the most iconic solos and tones in rock music.
This deep dive into the history, modifications, sound, and legacy of the Black Strat will explore why it remains one of the most legendary electric guitars ever played.
1. The Origins of the Black Strat
Purchase and Early Use
David Gilmour purchased the Black Strat on May 7, 1970, from Manny’s Music in New York City for about $120-$150. It was a 1969 Fender Stratocaster, originally featuring:
- A black finish
- A maple neck
- A standard three-pickup configuration
This guitar quickly became Gilmour’s main instrument, replacing the white Stratocaster he had been using.
First Appearance on Stage
Gilmour debuted the Black Strat live in 1970 and used it extensively during Pink Floyd’s early Meddle and Live at Pompeii sessions.
2. Key Modifications Over the Years
The Black Strat is one of the most modified guitars in history, with Gilmour constantly making adjustments to optimize tone, playability, and performance.
Pickup Changes
- 1972: Installed a DiMarzio FS-1 pickup in the bridge position for a higher-output tone.
- 1974: Swapped the FS-1 for a stock Fender bridge pickup.
- 1979: Installed an SSL-1 pickup set, which remained the final pickup configuration.
Bridge and Tremolo Adjustments
- The original bridge was replaced multiple times to improve sustain and tuning stability.
- A shortened tremolo arm was installed to make bending notes smoother and more comfortable.
Neck Replacements
- 1972: Replaced the original maple neck with a ’57-style maple neck.
- 1978: Switched to a rosewood fingerboard neck, used on The Wall.
- 1982: Reverted to a ’57 reissue maple neck, which became the final version.
Electronics and Toggle Switch Addition
- In 1978, a mini-toggle switch was added to allow the bridge and neck pickups to be played together.
- This gave the Black Strat unique tonal capabilities not found on standard Stratocasters.
3. The Black Strat in Iconic Pink Floyd Albums
The Black Strat was used to create some of the most famous guitar solos and tones in rock history.
“Echoes” (1971) – Meddle
- Gilmour used the Black Strat’s tremolo system to create the whale-like sounds in “Echoes.”
- The clean, delay-soaked intro riff became one of his most ethereal tones.
“Time” (1973) – The Dark Side of the Moon
- One of Gilmour’s most expressive and emotional solos was recorded on the Black Strat.
- Achieved by using heavy bends, sustain, and reverb.
“Shine On You Crazy Diamond” (1975) – Wish You Were Here
- The iconic four-note intro phrase was played on the Black Strat’s neck pickup, using a warm, glassy tone.
- Heavy use of delay, sustain, and vibrato defined this song’s soaring lead sections.
“Comfortably Numb” (1979) – The Wall
- Arguably Gilmour’s greatest solo was played on the Black Strat’s bridge pickup.
- The solo’s smooth sustain and overdriven warmth came from a combination of the Black Strat and a Big Muff pedal.
“Run Like Hell” (1979) – The Wall
- Used a galloping delay effect with heavy palm muting.
- Showcased the punchy attack of the Black Strat’s bridge pickup.
4. Gear and Effects Used with the Black Strat
To achieve his legendary tones, Gilmour paired the Black Strat with various amps, pedals, and effects.
Amplifiers
- Hiwatt DR103 Custom 100 – Gilmour’s primary amp, providing clean, powerful headroom.
- Fender Twin Reverb – Used for crisp, clean tones.
Effects Pedals
- Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi – Created the fuzzy sustain on “Comfortably Numb.”
- Binson Echorec Delay – Used extensively on “Echoes” and “Shine On You Crazy Diamond.”
- MXR Phase 90 – Added a swirling effect to lead lines.
- Boss CE-2 Chorus – Used to create spacious, rich textures.
Strings and Picks
- Gilmour used GHS Boomers (.010 – .048 gauge strings) for smooth bends and sustain.
- He played with a Herco Flex 75 pick, though he often relied on fingerpicking for softer dynamics.
5. The Black Strat’s Journey and Auction Sale
Retirement from Touring
- The Black Strat was retired from touring in 1986, replaced by a Red Strat.
- However, it made a comeback in the 2000s for Gilmour’s solo work.
Historic Auction (2019)
- In 2019, Gilmour put the Black Strat up for auction at Christie’s to raise money for climate change charities.
- It sold for $3.975 million, becoming the most expensive guitar ever sold at the time.
6. Legacy and Influence
Ranked Among the Most Iconic Guitars
The Black Strat is considered as legendary as:
- Jimi Hendrix’s Woodstock Strat
- Eric Clapton’s Blackie
- Jimmy Page’s ’59 Les Paul
Inspired Signature Models
- Fender released a Black Strat Signature Model in 2008, allowing fans to own a replica of Gilmour’s guitar.
Impact on Guitarists Worldwide
Guitarists like John Mayer, Joe Bonamassa, and Steven Wilson cite the Black Strat’s tone as a major influence.