Lee Ranaldo: Our 1995 Sonic Youth Interview

Insights and Advice From One of Rock Guitar's Great Sonic Visionaries

This interview with Lee Ranaldo, one of rock guitar’s sonic visionaries, took place on August 5, 1995. Lee and I initially focused on his playing with Thurston Moore, Kim Gordon, and Steve Shelley in Sonic Youth, which was about to release their Washing Machine album, as well as his brilliant East Jesus solo release. Lee also offered sage advice for players wishing expand their style and venture into new directions. Given his groundbreaking approach, it’s little wonder that Rolling Stone ranked Lee at number 33 on its “Greatest Guitarists of All Time” list.

Thanks to engineer/producer Nik Hunt for enhancing the sound of the original master tape.

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