In 1997 I went to my first concert alone with my friends. I was 13 years old and we couldn't believe our luck that the Vans Warp Tour decided to hold their festival in the suburbs of the Beaches of Sydney and not in the city - this is probably why our parents decided that it was ok for us to go. That year was a very distinct musical turn for me and the rest of the area I grew up in - Punk music was king and Australia manged to connect with Blink 182 before the rest of the world caught up.
Tom DeLonge is a hero of mine and I always am excited to hear what he comes up with. I love his song writing and guitar playing - It is such a gift to be able to come up with so many songs that stay in your head for days. I totally still, as a near 40 year old, laugh at the same types of jokes that Tom and Mark banter with on stage.
Although my musical tastes changed again and again over the years, Tom DeLonge and his Blink 182 counterparts have always remained on high rotation and will so for years to come.
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Tom DeLonge's Song Writing & Style of Guitar Playing
Who Is Tom DeLonge
Born on December 13, 1975, in Poway, California, Tom DeLonge grew up in a suburb that was dripping in skate and punk culture. His early influences included punk rock bands like The Descendents and Screeching Weasel. His growing interest quickly turned into a career path when he formed Blink 182, setting the stage for his rocket like trajectory in the punk rock scene.
The Formation Of Blink 182
Blink 182 formed in 1992 when Tom DeLonge met Mark Hoppus, introduced by Hoppus' sister. The duo later recruited Scott Raynor on drums, and the band began crafting their identity around fast-paced punk rock with humorous lyrics. Their energetic performances quickly gained local popularity, leading to their first record deal with Cargo Music in 1994.
Blink 182 took a definitive turn when drummer Scott Raynor was replaced by Travis Barker in 1998. Barker, known for his insane drumming skills, joined the band just in time to record their breakthrough album, Enema of the State. This album, which featured hits like "What's My Age Again?" and "All the Small Things," catapulted the band into mainstream success, thanks in part to Barker's intricate rhythms and the band's dynamic chemistry.
Tom DeLonge's Song Writing & Style of Guitar Playing
Tom DeLonge’s guitar playing is notably characterized by its fast, down-picked, power chord rhythms which form the backbone of Blink 182's signature sound. His songwriting often incorporates adolescent angst, romantic frustrations, and whimsical humor, resonating deeply with young audiences. DeLonge's ability to blend catchy hooks with punk speed and melody has earned him a distinct place in the music world.
The Fender 'Tom DeLonge' Artist Signature Series
What Is a Signature Series
A signature series guitar is a special edition instrument modeled after a specific artist's guitar, incorporating their unique specifications and modifications. These guitars are designed in collaboration with the artists themselves to replicate the feel, sound, and look of the instrument used by the musician.
Info About Tom DeLonge's Signature Series - Tom DeLonge Starcaster
The Tom DeLonge Starcaster strikes a special chord, resonating with Blink-182 fans and guitar enthusiasts alike. Its offset semi-hollow body packs a real punch, thanks in part to the Seymour Duncan SH-5 Duncan Custom humbucker, perfect for those chunky power chords and crunchy riffs that colored my teenage soundtrack. Not just powerful, this guitar maintains a clarity in its high gain, with a treble bleed circuit ensuring the cleans are as sparkly as the aggressive tones.
The playability of the Starcaster is a modern nod to punk rock days, outfitted for today's musician. Its modern "C" shaped neck and medium jumbo frets on a 12"-radius rosewood fingerboard make it effortless to play, whether you're tearing through a punk set or weaving through complex chord progressions. Stability is key, with Fender locking tuners and a fully adjustable bridge with a stop tailpiece that not only enhance tuning but also complement its classic aesthetic.
Custom touches like DeLonge's signature artwork on the headstock and a specially crafted neck plate add a personal flair, making the Starcaster not just an instrument but a piece of music history. Whether you're after the Blink-182 sound or just a unique guitar with serious stage presence, the Tom DeLonge Starcaster is a standout choice.
Tom DeLonge Starcaster Fender Series Range
Olympic White
Satin Shell Pink
Satin Shore Gold
Satin Surf Green
Other Equipment Tom DeLonge Uses
Guitars
Fender Tom DeLonge Stratocaster: A signature model created during his time with Fender, featuring a single humbucker and a maple neck.
Amps
Mesa Boogie Triple Rectifier: Known for its high gain, Tom used this amp for the bulk of his career for its thick, powerful sound.
Vox AC30: Used mainly with Angels & Airwaves for its cleaner, more atmospheric tone.
Marshall JCM900: A staple in the punk rock genre, used by Tom during his early days for its raw power.
Pedals
BOSS DD-3 Digital Delay: Essential for the spacelike echo in Angels & Airwaves’ music.
MXR EVH117 Van Halen Flanger Pedal: That classic up and down warping feel.
Ibanez Tube Screamer: For boosting his signal and adding grit.
Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi: For thick, sustaining distortion.
Accessories
Tom DeLonge and Blink 182 in concert
Seeing Blink 182 live is a throwback to my teenage years—energy-packed performances, relentless guitar riffs, and a crowd singing every lyric. Tom DeLonge's stage presence, characterized by his casual interactions and quirky humor, makes each concert an unforgettable experience. His live guitar play, switching effortlessly between raw punk power and melodic hooks, showcases his profound influence on pop punk music.
In Summary - Tom DeLonge + Fender Signature Series
Tom DeLonge's unique guitar style blends speed, power, and melody.
His song writing captures the essence of youth and angst.
Signature series guitars reflect his personal modifications for optimal performance.
DeLonge's gear choices show his evolution as a musician.
His concerts are a vibrant celebration of his career and influence.