How to Dial In "Backbone" by Nick Johnston - Guitar Tone Settings
What Nick Johnston Actually Used on "Backbone"
Original Knob Positions, Pickup, and Tuning
Where to set the knobs for this tone. Each value is on the standard 0–10 amp scale.
These numbers are for a Friedman Dirty Shirley 40 Combo. On your amp, they won't sound the same.
Get the settings for my ampHow the artist had their guitar configured for this take.
Melodic, blues-rooted modern instrumental rock — Johnston writes songs, not exercises, with a vocal, expressive lead voice. An S-style HSS guitar (his Schecter signature) into a Friedman, a warm mid-gain tone that sings and cleans up beautifully. Neck pickup for the melody, moderate drive, big dynamics. The bends, the phrasing and the strong melodic writing are the identity; it's about feel and taste over flash.
Common Questions About the "Backbone" Tone
What guitar did Nick Johnston use on "Backbone"?
Nick Johnston tracked "Backbone" on a Schecter Nick Johnston Traditional (released 2016). Pickup selector: neck pickup on the guitar. Tuned to standard (E A D G B E).
What amp settings does "Backbone" need?
On Friedman Dirty Shirley 40 Combo: Gain 5, Bass 5, Mid 6, Treble 6, Presence 5, Volume 6. Each value is on the standard 0–10 amp scale; match them on your amp first, then nudge to taste. ToneMirror can translate these positions for whatever amp you actually own.
Can I play "Backbone" without a Friedman Dirty Shirley 40 Combo?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the original recipe above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Backbone" tone on a Katana, a Helix, a tube combo, or anything else. The translation accounts for EQ curve, gain structure, and pickup type so the result actually sounds like the record, not just the same knob numbers on different gear.
More Tones You Can Dial In
Tone references for "Backbone" by Nick Johnston are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.