How to Dial In "Blackmail" by The Runaways - Guitar Tone Settings
Gear for "Blackmail"
Suggested rig · the original isn't documented.
Knob Positions, Pickup, and Tuning
Where to set the knobs for this tone. Each value is on the standard 0–10 amp scale.
On your amp, these numbers won't sound the same.
Get the settings for my ampHow the artist had their guitar configured for this take.
From The Runaways (1976). The Runaways is the debut studio album by the American rock band the Runaways, released on May 17, 1976 by Mercury Records. No source we found ties a guitar or amp to this recording, so a Gibson Joan Jett Melody Maker (Joan Jett Sig) through a Marshall 1959SLP Plexi Super Lead Reissue, the rig we use for The Runaways' other songs from The Runaways, stands in. Set the amp to a medium-gain crunch and use the single pickup.
Common Questions About the "Blackmail" Tone
What guitar did The Runaways use on "Blackmail"?
The guitar on "Blackmail" (released 1976) isn't documented; the Gibson Joan Jett Melody Maker (Joan Jett Sig) above gets the sound. Pickup selector: single pickup on the guitar.
What amp settings does "Blackmail" need?
Settings for this sound: Gain 6.5, Bass 5, Mid 6, Treble 6.5, Presence 6, Volume 6.5. 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 "Blackmail" without the original gear?
Yes. ToneMirror takes the settings above and adapts it to your guitar, amp, and pedals - so you can chase the "Blackmail" 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 "Blackmail" by The Runaways are provided for educational use. ToneMirror is not affiliated with the artists or labels referenced.