Song Rig

Funk #49

Joe Walsh · James Gang Rides Again · 1970

Tone Overview

What Makes This Sound Unique

James Gang's signature track — a driving rock riff that Joe Walsh built from the ground up as lead guitarist/vocalist of the Cleveland trio. The Les Paul into the Marshall produces a tight, punchy tone with an almost funky percussive quality that comes from the precision of Walsh's right-hand muting technique.

Signal Chain

1Gibson Les Paul Standard (bridge pickup)
2Marshall Super Lead 100W
3Boss CS-3 or similar compression (light)

Amp Settings

Gain / Volume6

Bass6

Mid7

Treble7

Presence7

Medium gain — the James Gang sound is more controlled and punchy than outright heavy metal. The Les Paul's mahogany sustain combined with the Marshall produces a tight, focused tone that sits between rock and funk.

Technique

How to Play It

Palm-muted single-note intro riff transitioning to open chord crunch — Walsh alternates between tight palm muting on the riff figure and releasing the mute for the open power chord hits, creating the dynamic contrast that gives Funk #49 its driving momentum.

Budget Alternative

Achievable With

Les Paul → Marshall JCM800 or Origin at medium gain → practice the mute-to-release technique: maintain firm palm contact on strings for the muted section, lift cleanly for the open chord hits.

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