Rammstein’s signature heavy sound is unmistakable, thanks in large part to the explosive guitar work of lead guitarist Richard Kruspe. Known for crafting powerful, chest-pounding riffs using often minimalistic progressions, Kruspe is a firm believer in the “less is more” philosophy when it comes to songwriting.
Though Kruspe has previously acknowledged his artistic kinship with Red Hot Chili Peppers’ John Frusciante, he recently made it clear who his greatest guitar influence is. In a conversation with Guitar World, Kruspe expressed profound admiration for AC/DC’s Malcolm Young, stating:
“I had the privilege of watching him from the stage. Every time I play live, I f*** up at least once or twice. But Malcolm didn’t—he was so switched on. The simplicity of AC/DC’s rock ‘n’ roll is undeniable, and it still moves people to this day. It speaks to people in a very simple way. You don’t need a lot of explanation; it goes right to your f***ing heart.”
Kruspe emphasized that it’s not just technical skill that draws his attention—it’s individuality and authenticity. He added that he deeply respects guitarists who carve out a distinctive sonic identity:
“I appreciate people who have their own sound. I always loved Jim Martin from Faith No More. He had a very specific sound from the Marshalls he used, and you can hear that on albums like The Real Thing. He wasn’t the fastest player, but he had this unique style and sound that I always appreciated.”
Kruspe’s reverence for guitarists like Young and Martin reveals a deeper philosophy about music: it’s not about complexity, but about impact. Whether it’s AC/DC’s raw energy or Faith No More’s textured soundscapes, what matters most to him is the emotional connection a player can forge with their audience.
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