Charlie Hunter is a groundbreaking guitarist known for his innovative 7-string and 8-string instruments, seamlessly blending bass lines with intricate melodies across genres like jazz, blues, and funk. With a rich career that includes collaborations with musical legends and a commitment to authenticity, Hunter continues to inspire with his unique sound and artistic vision.
Charlie Hunter, born on May 23, 1967, in Berkeley, California, has carved a niche in the music world with his innovative guitar technique and genre-blending style. A product of a musical environment, his early affinity for the guitar was nurtured by his mother, who worked as a guitar repairer. Taking lessons from the iconic Joe Satriani in his teenage years, Hunter honed the mechanical and physical aspects of playing guitar, setting the foundation for his future style, though with little emphasis on stylistic instruction.
As a young adult, Hunter moved to Paris, where he spent time busking and playing on the streets, engaging with musicians from the West Indies and Western Africa. This "on-the-job training" opened his eyes to polyrhythms and percussion, fostering a love for world music influences.
Returning to the Bay Area, he joined The Disposal Heroes of Hiphoprisy, a political rap group with Michael Franti, leading to a major tour as an opener for U2's Zoo TV tour in 1992.
Hunter is celebrated for his custom 7-string and 8-string guitars, which enable him to play bass lines and guitar parts simultaneously. His pioneering approach began with a 7-string guitar designed in the late 1980s and evolved with an 8-string model crafted by luthier Ralph Novak, featuring fanned frets and separate pickups. This allowed Charlie to create a unique two-instruments-in-one sound by blending bass lines and fingerpicked guitar melodies.
Inspired by legends like Joe Pass and Tuck Andress, Hunter's playing is characterized by the seamless integration of bass notes into melodies. His music, a kaleidoscope of jazz, blues, rock, funk, and world music influences, defies easy classification.
Charlie's recording journey began with his self-titled debut album in 1993, released by Les Claypool's Prawn Song label. Signing with Blue Note Records in the mid-1990s, he debuted "Bing, Bing, Bing!" in 1995, which featured his 8-string prowess, including a cover of Nirvana's "Come As You Are."
Through his career, he has released more than 17 albums, showcasing various musical configurations, including solo, duo, trio, quartet, and quintet formats. Notable works include:- "Ready...Set...Shango!" (1996)- "Return of the Candyman" (1998)- "Songs from the Analog Playground" (2001)
Hunter's sound, while often categorized as jazz, is deeply rooted in blues, funk, and groove. His preference for pre-1975 music, particularly jazz before 1964 and soul/pop from 1964-1975, provides a nostalgic touch to his compositions. Influences like Charlie Christian, Wes Montgomery, and Robert Johnson have deeply impacted his musical direction.
Collaborations have enriched Hunter's music, working with luminaries such as:- D'Angelo on "Voodoo"- John Mayer- Norah Jones- Kurt Elling- Mos Def
His experimental duo, Groundtruther, with drummer Bobby Previte, exemplifies his exploratory spirit. Moreover, Hunter has produced for labels like Little Village Foundation and his SideHustle Records.
In recent times, Hunter has pivoted towards supporting and producing others. He plays a self-designed 7-string Hybrid guitar and has delved into producing albums for artists like DaShawn Hickman while collaborating with vocalists such as Lucy Woodward, emphasizing raw energy and an unvarnished sound.
Charlie Hunter advocates for groove and feel over technique, providing a soulful, direct music experience. He is critical of the touring economics and focuses on sustaining a musical career he genuinely enjoys. His candid approach to the music industry and dedication to authenticity set him apart as a pioneering force in the guitar world.
