Song Rig
Shake Your Moneymaker
Elmore James · Shake Your Moneymaker (single) · 1961
Tone Overview
What Makes This Sound Unique
Uptempo Chicago blues with a driving, rhythmic slide pattern — the dance-floor version of Elmore's tone, where the slide becomes a rhythm instrument as much as a lead voice. The bright, cutting tone and rhythmic slide work foreshadow later rock and roll guitar styles.
Signal Chain
- 1Single-pickup electric guitar (Silvertone, Kay, or Airline)
- 2Fender or Ampeg combo (small, 15–30W)
- 3Steel slide
Amp Settings
Identical approach to Dust My Broom — bright, aggressive, cutting. The fast shuffle tempo requires sharp, immediate note attack; any bass muddiness would obscure the rhythmic precision.
Technique
How to Play It
Open-E-tuning shuffle pattern — the slide stays on the G–B–e string cluster for the rhythm part while the thumb handles the bass string alternation. A busy two-hand technique more like a fingerpicker than a pure lead player.
Budget Alternative
Achievable With
Guitar in open E or D tuning → small cranked amp (Fender Champ or similar) → steel slide. Keep bass knob at 2–3, treble at 9–10.
Your Gear
Adapt to My Amp
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