21st-Century Cigar Box Guitars: New Sounds, Old Roots
Introduction to 21st-century Cigar Box Guitars
Who would have thought that cigar boxes, old broom handles, and a little bit of wire would give birth to one of the most unique and versatile instruments of the 21st century? The humble cigar box guitar, with its deep ties to blues music and DIY culture, is having a moment. Despite its primitive origins, this instrument is finding its way into modern studios, gigs, and even classrooms! In this article, we’ll explore the rise of 21st-century cigar box guitars, how they’ve evolved, and why they remain relevant in a world of high-tech instruments. Let’s dig into this fascinating blend of history and innovation!
The Origins of the Cigar Box Guitar
Before cigar box guitars became a staple in modern music, they were the instruments of necessity. Dating back to the 1800s, cigar box guitars were originally built by people who couldn’t afford traditional instruments. Using a discarded cigar box, a broomstick, and some wire, they crafted makeshift guitars to play blues and folk music. During the Great Depression, these instruments became even more popular among poor musicians, and they held a special place in the heart of American roots music.
Notable blues legends, such as Lightnin’ Hopkins and Muddy Waters, were known to have started their musical journeys with homemade cigar box guitars. These instruments, despite their simplicity, helped shape the sound of the early blues movement. The DIY spirit of creating something out of nothing has always been tied to these guitars, and that spirit is alive and well today, as modern musicians continue to embrace these instruments for their raw sound and historical significance.
The 21st-Century Cigar Box Guitar Revival
While cigar box guitars never completely disappeared, they certainly weren’t mainstream for many decades. That all started to change in the early 2000s, when a resurgence of interest in DIY music and vintage sounds took hold. Musicians began to look for unique instruments that stood apart from mass-produced guitars, and cigar box guitars fit the bill perfectly.
The internet and social media played a massive role in the revival of 21st-century cigar box guitars. Online tutorials, forums, and communities popped up, allowing people to learn how to build and play these unique instruments from home. Musicians began sharing their creations on platforms like YouTube, sparking interest in others. The global reach of the internet enabled this once-forgotten instrument to gain new fans and builders, expanding its presence in both the DIY scene and the professional music world.
Musicians like Seasick Steve and Jack White further popularized the cigar box guitar by incorporating its distinct, gritty sound into their music. Suddenly, what was once seen as a “poor man’s guitar” became a tool for musical experimentation and expression.
Building a 21st-Century Cigar Box Guitar
One of the best things about the modern cigar box guitar movement is the ability to build your own instrument. Today’s builders use a mix of traditional and modern materials, creating everything from simple, unamplified guitars to fully electrified, high-performance instruments.
In terms of materials, builders still use actual cigar boxes for the body, but many also experiment with other boxes and containers. Broomsticks and dowels are still popular choices for the neck, but modern builders may also use pre-made guitar necks or even high-tech CNC machines to craft their designs. The result is a wide range of cigar box guitars, from rustic, old-school instruments to polished, high-tech creations.
Modern builders also often incorporate electronics, such as pickups, allowing the cigar box guitar to be played through an amplifier. This opens up a whole new world of possibilities for cigar box guitar players, from distortion-filled rock riffs to mellow, bluesy tones. The 21st-century cigar box guitar is not just a novelty; it’s a serious instrument capable of producing a wide variety of sounds.
How Cigar Box Guitars Fit Into Modern Music
In the 21st century, the cigar box guitar is far from a relic of the past. It has become a powerful tool for musicians looking to create genre-bending music and explore unique sounds. What makes these instruments so appealing is their versatility. Whether you’re playing blues, rock, folk, or even experimental music, the cigar box guitar can adapt and add its distinctive flavor to your sound.
Artists across different genres are embracing the cigar box guitar. Jack White famously used one in The White Stripes’ song “Seven Nation Army,” giving the track its iconic gritty sound. Seasick Steve built his career around the raw, homemade sound of cigar box guitars. Even modern blues and indie artists are picking up these instruments, recognizing that they offer a unique tone that can’t be replicated with more traditional guitars.
This versatility is also drawing in younger musicians who are tired of the overproduced sounds dominating the charts. They’re turning to handmade instruments like cigar box guitars for their authenticity and connection to the roots of music.
The Future of Cigar Box Guitars in the 21st Century
Looking forward, it’s clear that cigar box guitars are here to stay. Not only are they becoming more popular in the DIY community, but they are also finding their way into music education programs. Schools and music camps are incorporating cigar box guitar building into their curriculum, teaching students both the history of these instruments and the technical skills needed to build and play them.
The future of 21st-century cigar box guitars also lies in continuing the DIY movement. As more people take up the challenge of building their own instruments, the creativity and innovation in the community will continue to grow. We’re already seeing builders experiment with new materials, like 3D-printed components, and new technologies, such as incorporating effects directly into the guitar body.
There’s also a growing number of festivals and live performances dedicated to the cigar box guitar. These events bring together builders, players, and enthusiasts, all celebrating the unique culture and sound of these instruments. As technology evolves, we can only imagine what innovations will arise in the cigar box guitar world. Whether it’s through CNC machines or new, hybrid builds, the cigar box guitar will continue to evolve, bridging the gap between old roots and new sounds.
Conclusion
It’s clear that cigar box guitars have stood the test of time, evolving from makeshift instruments to beloved fixtures in modern music. As we move further into the 21st century, they continue to inspire musicians and builders alike, offering a direct link to the past while forging new paths in sound. Whether you’re an experienced musician or someone looking for a creative DIY project, 21st-century cigar box guitars offer a way to explore the best of both worlds: old roots and new sounds. Ready to build your own or take one for a spin?
