Song Rig
Superfly
Curtis Mayfield · Superfly · 1972
Tone Overview
What Makes This Sound Unique
Wah-filtered and falsetto — the Superfly title track is Mayfield's guitar playing at its most iconic. The continuous wah-filtered rhythm guitar chord pattern is played in Eb standard or open tuning, creating the sweeping, hypnotic soul groove.
Signal Chain
- 1Fender Stratocaster or similar (tuned to Eb or open tuning)
- 2Dunlop Cry Baby or Vox Clyde McCoy Wah (cocked position)
- 3Clean Fender amp
Amp Settings
Very clean amp — all the colour comes from the wah pedal held in a fixed position (cocked wah technique). Mayfield often played with the wah at one angle throughout a track.
Technique
How to Play It
Cocked wah with right-hand fingerstyle — Mayfield preferred fingerpicking (index and middle fingers) to a plectrum, giving his rhythm parts a softer attack and smoother groove.
Budget Alternative
Achievable With
Stratocaster → Dunlop Cry Baby GCB-95 in fixed position → Fender Deluxe Reverb at moderate volume. Tune to Eb for authentic pitch. The fingerstyle picking is essential.
Your Gear
Adapt to My Amp
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