Peter Buck's Rickenbacker 360: A Sonic Journey Through R.E.M.'s Discography

Peter Buck, the renowned guitarist of the iconic band R.E.M., is known for his distinctive jangly guitar sound that played a pivotal role in shaping the band's signature sound. One of the key elements of this sonic identity was his Rickenbacker 360 guitar. 

The Rickenbacker 360 in R.E.M.'s Discography

The Rickenbacker 360 made its debut in R.E.M.'s sonic landscape during the early 1980s. It became a staple in Peter Buck's arsenal of guitars, contributing significantly to the band's sound on various albums. Let's explore some of the notable albums and songs where the Rickenbacker 360 took center stage.

"Murmur" (1983): R.E.M.'s debut album, "Murmur," is a seminal work in the world of alternative rock. On this album, Peter Buck's Rickenbacker 360 played a crucial role in crafting the jangly, atmospheric guitar textures that became synonymous with the band. Tracks like "Radio Free Europe" and "Talk About the Passion" are prime examples of the Rickenbacker's influence on this record.

"Reckoning" (1984): The follow-up to "Murmur," "Reckoning" continued to feature the Rickenbacker 360 prominently. Songs like "So. Central Rain" and "Don't Go Back to Rockville" showcased its chiming, melodic tones, adding depth and character to the album's sound.

"Fables of the Reconstruction" (1985): This album marked a departure from R.E.M.'s previous works, leaning towards a more folk and Southern rock-inspired sound. However, Peter Buck's Rickenbacker 360 was still an integral part of the band's sonic palette, contributing to tracks like "Driver 8" and "Can't Get There from Here."

"Document" (1987): As R.E.M. gained wider recognition, "Document" further solidified their status as rock icons. Songs like "The One I Love" and "It's the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)" featured the Rickenbacker 360's bright and jangly tones, creating memorable hooks that resonated with audiences.

Acquiring the Rickenbacker 360

Now, let's unravel the intriguing story of how Peter Buck acquired his beloved Rickenbacker 360. While there isn't a single definitive account of the acquisition, it's widely believed that he obtained it during the early days of R.E.M.'s formation.

Peter Buck's passion for vintage instruments led him to discover the Rickenbacker 360, a guitar celebrated for its unique tonal characteristics and stylish design. It's said that he acquired the guitar from a local music shop in Athens, Georgia, where the band was based. This acquisition was a pivotal moment in R.E.M.'s history, as it contributed significantly to the development of their signature sound.

When Peter Buck wasn't wielding his iconic Rickenbacker 360, he showcased his versatility as a musician by delving into the realm of mandolin playing. His mandolin skills added a unique flavor to R.E.M.'s sound, particularly during the band's later years. Notable songs where Buck's mandolin playing shone include the Grammy Award-winning hit "Losing My Religion" from the 1991 album "Out of Time." 

The ethereal and haunting mandolin riff that opens the track became an instantly recognizable part of R.E.M.'s catalog. Buck's ability to seamlessly transition between guitar and mandolin highlighted his musical dexterity and contributed to the band's evolving sonic landscape.

Peter Buck's Rickenbacker 360 remains an iconic instrument in the world of alternative rock, forever associated with R.E.M.'s timeless music. Throughout the band's career, this guitar played a central role in shaping their sound, making it an indispensable part of their sonic identity. The story of how Peter Buck acquired his Rickenbacker 360 adds an extra layer of fascination to the instrument's legacy, highlighting the passion and dedication that went into crafting R.E.M.'s iconic sound.