fuzz tone

noun

1. a distorted, blurred effect produced electrically in the sound of an electric guitar by increased vibrations or added overtones.

Word History and Origins

Origin of fuzz tone¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

Glenn Snoddy, a Nashville studio engineer who built a pedal that enabled guitarists to create the snarling “fuzz tone,” unleashing sonic distortion possibilities that influenced generations of rock guitarists, died May 21 at his home in Murfreesboro, Tenn. He was 96.

From Washington Post

When the Stones recorded “Satisfaction,” Richards’s use of Mr. Snoddy’s invention gave the song’s riff an aggression perfectly suited to the song’s confrontational lyrics and helped popularize the band — and the fuzz tone — on both sides of the Atlantic.

From Washington Post

Richards‘ “Satisfaction” riff with the fuzz tone is one of the most recognizable ones in rock history.

From Washington Times

“He told me, ‘I want to take it out of the box,’ so I turned on the fuzz tone and turned up the tremolo,” said Mr. Beane, whose lengthy “Walk on By” solo evokes both buzz saws and Morse code.

From New York Times

Clearly determined to compete for radio play with the many younger rockers who studiously emulate U2, most of the album puts a higher gloss, and sometimes a heavier fuzz tone, on the band’s instantly recognizable sound.

From New York Times