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Bill KelliherGuitarist and backing vocalist for Atlanta-based groove metal band Mastodon
Date of Birth: 23.03.1971
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Bill Kelliher: Virtuoso of Mastodon
- Signature Guitars and Amplification
- Pedalboard and Tuning
- Seymour Duncan Pickups
- Personal Life and Awards
Bill Kelliher: Virtuoso of Mastodon
Early Years and InfluencesBill Kelliher emerged as the backbone of Atlanta's groove metal band Mastodon, where he shares guitar duties with Brent Hinds. His guitar prowess is evident in his signature rhythm sections, drawing inspiration from artists like Metallica and Slayer.
Signature Guitars and Amplification
Kelliher's guitar arsenal boasts various Gibson models, including the classic Les Paul Custom in Silverburst and Ebony finishes. He has also employed the Gibson Explorer in Sunburst, White, and Black variants. For experimentation, he has used the Yamaha SGB Custom and a unique First Act custom 9-string in Silverburst.
In terms of amplification, Kelliher initially favored Laney VH100R, but has since transitioned to the signature Kerry King Marshall JCM 800 and Mesa/Boogie Dual Rectifier.
Pedalboard and Tuning
Like his bandmate Hinds, Kelliher employs distinct tunings for Mastodon's songs. His preferred tunings include D Standard on his Les Paul, Drop C on the Yamaha SGB, and a variation on C with a low A on his Gibson Explorer.
His pedalboard features the Ibanez Tube King, Boss TU-2 Tuner, MXR M-135 Smart Noise Gate, and Digitech Jamman Looper Pedal, shaping his heavy and textured sound.
Seymour Duncan Pickups
Kelliher has long relied on Seymour Duncan pickups, particularly the SH-6 Duncan Distortion models on the neck and bridge of his Les Pauls.
Personal Life and Awards
Beyond music, Kelliher is a devoted husband and father of two young sons, including Harrison, named after his Star Wars hero. His passion for the franchise is reflected in his extensive collection of memorabilia.
In 2007, Kelliher and Hinds made history as the first guitarists to win a Metal Hammer Golden Gods Award. This prestigious accolade cemented their status as exceptional musicians in the metal scene.
