Iconic musicians Jimmy Page, B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Ronnie Wood, Keith Richards, Eric Clapton, and Neil Young graced one of the most prestigious concerts in rock history.
Jimmy Rip: A Lifetime of Music and Guitar
Jimmy Rip, a renowned guitarist and producer, has had an illustrious career spanning over four decades. His journey began at the tender age of six, when he was captivated by his older brother's guitars and the bands rehearsing in their parents' basement. This early exposure to music sparked a passion that would lead him to become one of the most sought-after guitarists in the industry.
Rip's professional career took off when he was just 12 years old, playing guitar for money and by 15, he was a regular on the New York City bar and dance circuit. His talent was undeniable, and it wasn't long before he caught the attention of some of the biggest names in music.
One of Rip's most notable collaborations was with Tom Verlaine, working with him from 1981 until Verlaine's death. Rip's contributions can be heard on the album Last Man Standing, which featured a star-studded guest list including Jimmy Page, B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Ronnie Wood, Keith Richards, Willie Nelson, Eric Clapton, and Neil Young. Rip had a similar experience working on Jerry Lee Lewis' album Last Man Standing, where he was the guitarist on every track, alongside his friend Kenny Lovelace.
In addition to his work with Verlaine and Lewis, Rip has worked with Mick Jagger, producing his second solo disc, Primitive Cool, and serving as the musical director for the tour that followed. Rip's resume also includes producing 20 records in Argentina and leading Jimmy Rip & The Trip for 15 years.
Rip's rig is as diverse as his career, including Telecasters, Stratocasters, two-humbucker guitars, single P-90 guitars, and a Hagstrom II. Among his most cherished guitars are a 1965 Jazzmaster, gifted to him by Tom Verlaine, and a 1957 Gibson J-50 acoustic that he uses in the studio. His 1959 Gibson LG-2, one of the most mojo-filled guitars he's ever touched, is another favourite.
After spending 16 years in Argentina, Rip is now back in the United States and has plans to hit the road in a camper this fall, launching a YouTube channel where he will share rock 'n' roll stories and catch up with old friends. In addition, Rip will be performing some of Tom Verlaine's music, focusing on his solo songs, with a special band.
Rip's journey in the music industry is a testament to his passion and talent. From his early days sneaking his brother's guitars to his collaborations with some of the biggest names in music, Rip's story is one of perseverance, creativity, and a deep love for music.
- Jimmy Rip, in his career spanning over four decades, has been a guitarist with a wide array of instruments, including Telecasters, Stratocasters, and two-humbucker guitars, to name a few.
- Rip's rig also includes guitars from Fender, such as the Telecaster and Stratocaster, as well as Gibson models like the Les Paul and the J-50 acoustic.
- among his most cherished guitars are a 1965 Jazzmaster, a gift from Tom Verlaine, and a 1957 Gibson J-50 acoustic he uses in the studio.
- Apart from guitar playing, Rip has also produced 20 records in Argentina and led Jimmy Rip & The Trip for 15 years.
- Rip's musical collaborations include working with Tom Verlaine on the album Last Man Standing, Jerry Lee Lewis on his album of the same name, and Mick Jagger on his second solo disc, Primitive Cool.
- In the fall, Rip plans to go on the road in a camper, launch a YouTube channel, share rock 'n' roll stories, and perform some of Tom Verlaine's music, focusing on his solo songs.
