Manzanita guitar solo

Tony Rice, 1979. Solo by Tony Rice.

Rice's title instrumental shows the jazz-tinged phrasing and powerful tone that changed bluegrass guitar.

Manzanita is the title track of Tony Rice's influential album, and it shows the jazz-tinged phrasing and powerful tone that made him a giant of bluegrass guitar. Playing the Martin D-28 that once belonged to Clarence White, Rice produces a big, booming sound with remarkable clarity. His lines combine bluegrass drive with jazz harmony, moving smoothly through the tune's changes. His timing is impeccable, with a relaxed swing that makes fast passages sound effortless. The album helped push bluegrass guitar in new directions. Listen for the rich, full tone of the D-28, and for the way Rice's lines weave through the chords with a sophistication rare in bluegrass at the time.

Manzanita by Tony Rice is featured in our Bluegrass (#2) list. The solo is played by Tony Rice and the song was released in 1979.

In our lists

• Beyond the Canon — #10
• The 20 Greatest Bluegrass Guitar Solos — #2
• Top 20 Guitar Solos of 1979 — #19
• The Greatest Acoustic Guitar Solos — #15

Sources