Rig Rundown - Steve Hill

French-Canadian Steve Hill has been a professional musician since the age of 17. Sometimes as a sideman, sometimes as a frontman, but always onstage with a guitar in his hands and a smile on his face. About 10 years ago, Steve Hill released an album, and it was DOA-it bombed and nothing happened with it (his words, not ours).
“I don’t know how to do anything else besides music, so I had to make a living and I own a studio so figured I’ll do some solo shows and I’ll record a solo album to sell at those shows,” says Hill.
That album was called Solo Recordings, Vol. 1 and it’s his best-selling record to date. It completely changed his career and it really helped him find his artistic voice. Vol. 1 started out very simple-he sang, played guitar, and stomped his feet. About halfway through that record, he added a kick drum. Then he bought a hi-hat that was used on a few of the last songs recorded for Vol. 1. And for every acoustic song he’s recorded, he’s used a can of coins tapped to his feet as added percussion.
The success of the Vol. 1 led him to record subsequent albums Vol. 2 and Vol. 3. Each of those records incorporated more and more instrumentation falling on the hands, feet, and shoulders of Hill to pull off both onstage and in the studio. But this wasn’t his artistic vision.
“It’s all accidents-I never planned for this. I never wanted to be a one-man band [laughs],” says Hill. “125+ shows a year provides a great learning environment. Plus, when I’m not performing, I’m in the studio fine-tuning my approach and working out new material. Everything I recorded for those first three albums was performed live with no overdubs. I wouldn’t allow it [laughs]!”
And what’s the typical reaction he sees onstage: “Some people are mesmerized, and some people are horrified.”
In this episode, the multi-tasking Steve Hill virtually invites PG’s Chris Kies into his Canada-based recording studio. The Juno-Award-winning guitarist [Blues Album of the Year (2015)] details why he slides vintage Teisco gold-foils on his holy grail Gibsons and Fenders, explains the evolution of his setup that now covers bass and drums, and proves that one man can get the job done of three.
Article & Photos: bit.ly/SteveHillRR
Subscribe to PG's Channel: bit.ly/SubscribePGKZbin
Don't Miss a Rundown: bit.ly/RIgRundownENL
Merch & Magazines: shop.premierguitar.com
[Brought to you by D’Addario XL Strings: www.daddario.com/XLRR]
​(All Steve Hill's video, audio, and photos captured and edited by Stephan Ritch.)
00:00 - Intro
01:22 - KZbin Wormhole
01:58 - 1959 Gibson Les Paul Junior w/ Teisco Gold-Foil
03:54 - Steve Hill's One-Man-Band Evolution
06:36 - 1956 Gibson ES-225
11:28 - Audience's Reaction
12:19 - Limitations Playing Guitar & Bass
17:13 - Headstock Breaks While Drumming?!
19:09 - 1962 Fender Jazzmaster
23:51 - Collings 002H T
27:45 - 1964 Gibson SG Junior
29:50 - 1956 Gibson ES-225 Demo
31:54 - Vintage Fender Amps & Pedalboard
#rigrundown #stevehill #premierguitar

[@costas0]

J'en reviens pas que Steve a fait le meilleur rundown ever

[@robertevans2143]

By far the best Rig Rundown I have ever seen. Steve seems like such a cool guy. And a fellow Canadian too. Such a great talent.

[@tysonrinker5958]

Me to eh

[@DAFIOX]

I can't wait to see him live, so proud that we have a such unique guitarist here in Quebec

[@RJRonquillo]

One of my faves!

[@premierguitar]

We're waiting Mr. Ronquillo!

[@mattrock12]

Dude has SUCH great vibes. Smile creeps on my face every time he talks. Sounds great and incredible talent as well. Thanks for tuning me on to this guy!

[@premierguitar]

No problem!

[@TheSasquatchmadness]

The guy was so generous on this rig rundown, amazing guitar player. I think that’s my favorite rig rundown to date! Thanks PG for havin’ him.

[@jonnybeck6723]

The way Steve can just instantly be the whole band and kick ass... it's amazing !!

[@sum1868]

As soon as I collect my jaw from somewhere on the floor I am going to check everything this guy ever put online. Amazing.

[@danmartin633]

I just LOVE that rig rundown introduces me to artists that I've never heard before. This guy is AMAZING.

[@blairmichaelhogan4502]

Oh man I can’t believe you did a rig rundown on this absolute world class Canadian!

[@mattandrews4015]

I'm not sure when the last time was that I saw a musician having as much fun as he is having in the outro :)

[@mariogirard9664]

On a beau être un fan, l'avoir écouté sur presque tous ses albums, l'avoir vu en show quelques fois, j'ai toujours autant de plaisir à écouter Steve s'amuser avec ses bebelles.

[@matthewcasey4795]

Excellent collection of guitars and gear, fantastic player, and glasses of a serial killer. What more can you ask for?

[@jason5276]

Steve Hill Love him VERY Much! He rocks! \m/ Always did. J'ai hâte de te revoir en Show!

[@mortimermouse]

I was not aware of Steve’s work until this. This is the kind of stuff you feel obligated to share to all your musicians friends because is so damn inspiring and entertaining. This is genius on so many levels.

[@SimonVaillancourtPix]

Fantastique! Le meilleur au Canada!

[@relicguitar]

I've suggested him in your video comments so many times... You've finally got him on a rig rundown! This is the best rig rundown ever!

[@almaguapa-sailboatliveaboa440]

I saw Steve Hill live playing guitar only many years ago. I was stunned by his playing. Amazing talent. He's very well known in pro circuit of musicians in province of Quebec.

[@themorinsteph]

You picked the perfect guy for a Rig Rundown as you said at the end of the video. Awesome!

[@aschneider70]

One of the best RRD ever

[@vintagepipesnightmares]

Look at a god damn guy that absolutely know everything about his gear ! The most people you bring here are idiots that can barely play something alone if you ask them. He is so happy to play something and show you his craft. This guy a true pro!!!👍👍

[@ileutur6863]

Recent rig rundowns have gotten me to check out so many cool bands. Moon tooth was amazing, this guy is amazing, keep em coming.

[@premierguitar]

Hell yeah! Thanks for tuning in.

[@AlHan888]

I love this guy's creative madness! he leaves the well-marked paths! It's so good to discover an Artist with a capital A! I run to listen to his albums ......👍👏❤

[@acirka]

Bravo à Steve, le Québec est fier de toi!

[@johncarusone5635]

Steve is what it's all about. An accomplished musician have the time of his life. Great guitarist but doesn't take himself too seriously. Carry on Steve, and keep smiling'

[@meatsuitsublimator8506]

I love this dude's energy! I want to see him and Steve Wallis do a camping trip with some fireside jams.

[@goldcorium1282]

Great gear, tone, one of a kind playing and some awesome stories to explain it all. Great job As Chris put it, you've definitely "Found your lane." GP and Steve!

[@G60syncro]

A few years ago, I was in this band trio and we found ourselves in the situation where the bass player could'nt be relied on because he would often be shipped out of the country for work. We had to pass a few good gigs because of that!! Then my mom had a bunch of show tickets for the tiny venue in my hometown and it included a pair of Steeve Hill tickets that she offered to me. So I immediately called my buddy to book us a dude date. We got there early and were more front row than you can front row in that 100 peep venue! We litterally had our feet propped up on the wedge monitors looking at him and nerding it out. I told my friend after the show "See! All you need is a second amp and an octave pedal"... I guess he was on Amazon that night because the following week we were still rehearsing as a duo but this time with bass!! I've seen Steve numerous times and he always blows my mind!! In the early 2000's he was touring as a lead guitarist for legendary Quebecois rocker Michel Pagliaro who can hold his own but with Steve on stage it was fire!! It was like the Stones hiring Hendrix to play lead!!!

[@Mr.D34]

Thanks for doing a Rig Rundown with Steve Hill. I have seen him live 6 or 7 times and he was great each time. He has an amazing live sound. I have also had the pleasure of talking to him a few times before and after shows, he is always a down to earth guy.

[@lasallebrothers853]

Come on steve ...je tes vue dans mon ti criss de village..ont etais pas 40.. pis ta donner un show incoyable. Tes juste le meilleur .tu devrais etre a la radio partout

[@Johnnybananass-_]

your tone is magic, in my head when I think of raw real guitar tone , its what you're creating . love this rundown

[@thisisjtom]

The facts about all that great blues players playing their own "signature" licks are sooooo true. Whenever you listen to an Albert Collins or Albert King guitar licks, you KNOW that's them. Unique artist here and great human being as well. You got a fan mister ;)

[@rawkinj6609]

Awesome to see some love for Quebecois musicians on the show! Steve is an amazing person and a true original! Making us proud right here! Rawk on from Montreal!

[@clalemoo7]

Steve is my guitar hero, period.

[@stephanelariviere6298]

Steve Hill is bad ass in so many ways!!! The guy is pure soul and pocket. If you have a chance check out is acoustic guitar playing cause its just sick. Yep you've guess it i'm a fan! :)

[@sylvainalain6637]

One of my best KZbin suggested video ever :) Rock on 🤘 Steve

[@lpamiot]

Steve Hill has always been my favourite guitarist.

[@samsewall8341]

Late to the party here, just saw him play live on Saturday night and it blew my F*(&$n mind. Don't miss him if he's playing near you! His albums are great also.

[@AlexandreLapierreguitarist]

Always amazed by this guy!

[@promasterp]

Steve Hill est une vraie Légende !!!

[@laufonseca4444]

Good rig rundown. Good to know this guy. He is great!

[@arcticflying]

I am just flabbergasted every time Steve!

[@sonsrawk]

This is another example of why I have had subscription for Premier Guitar for several years now!! This dude is so friggin cool and original!! Love this!

[@PaulManningg]

One of the best intros . Ever

[@merak0044]

Saw him a few times in Quebec. The best show I saw him was in a small town north of Quebec City. La Baie! Right on the Fjord. I knew he was playing at the last minute so I went. There must of been a screw up cause there was no publicity. So the place was almost empty. So he started playing slide alone. One man show so when he realized that there was a small turn out he invited us on the stage with him. WHAT A SHOW! Gros merci Steve! Du Saguenay!!!!

[@steveorc321]

This is the best thing I have ever seen!

[@kakomola]

Simply amazing thing what he does and how it sounds

[@traviesoarcefan3063]

This interview made me a fan of Steve Hill. I can't wait to see him live SOMEDAY....

[@benoakwood2088]

Thanks so much to Premiere Guitar for doing this Rundown. I first experienced seeing Steve Hill live about 20 years ago in Montreal. I've been playing guitar my whole life and I COULD NOT BELIEVE just how good this guy was!

[@louisndupuis]

Bravo for inviting this incredible artist! :)

[@premierguitar]

Our pleasure!

[@sowiloi]

Such an original dude with a great sense of humor! Love the gear as well.

[@marcandrelegermusic]

Awesome job Steve! I can feel your joy by watching you smile buddy!

[@hustlinc3540]

love this man!

[@MrJackal43]

This guy is an unknown LEGEND!

[@premierguitar]

Full Rig Details: bit.ly/SteveHillRR Subscribe to PG's Channel: bit.ly/SubscribePGKZbin Don't Miss a Rundown: bit.ly/RIgRundownENL Merch & Magazines: shop.premierguitar.com

[@mainsblanches8793]

It's all in the hands!!...and the soul!!...

[@BrunoCastonguay007]

Crazy good! If you like great guitar tones, Steve's the greatest in Canada!

[@BMichel347]

Love Steve!!!

[@andybalcon3880]

Amazing vid! Steve Hill is the Boss! I got the opportunity to play with steve a few times in Quebec and pick his mind over all his gear and set up. Great to see an in-depth conversation online. big up to Premier Guitar for getting him on.

[@TheWashboardResonators]

What a fantastic chap.

[@sylvainviau454]

Damn respect to you Steve Hill you are one beast one man show

[@ruiseartalcorn]

Absolutely awesome!!! Great stuff!!! :)

[@monsterkxf]

Awesome 🤘🤘

[@juliaetseb]

Wow!!!! Un super gars et un excellent guitariste!!!!!!

[@stephanegirard1126]

Vraiment une belle démo Steve ! pas n'importe quoi Premier Guitar Rig Rundown !!

[@doctoribanez]

Dudes a beast

[@truand79]

What a cool cat!

[@dantahoua]

Amazing! :)

[@ukulelelab4219]

wow great video, playing and performance

[@marclandry4525]

MY guitar hero!

[@RichardMcLamore]

oh man. thanks!

[@derrickbeardsworth7932]

He is the best. And great guy and humble. Bammmm. His sound is amazing. I’m biased though.

[@sportexpress4559]

Sans mots !!!

[@AndyDemos]

Just an incredible sound and guitar tone! The Charlie Hunter fan in me wonders if he’s ever tried Hybrid Guitars. 👍🏻👍🏻

[@stevenbeecheymusic]

Awesome

[@benlogan430]

Excellent rundown and thanks for hipping me to this musician. Gonna buy his music and hopefully see him live. I’m a OMB, but not at this guys level.

[@pedalpukus]

Wow! That guy got mojo! Killer player!

[@alexwoolridge94aw]

This is amazing. Proof vintage Gibson juniors are the greatest guitars ever made in the right hands and Steve's are the right hands

[@jeanolivierhebert6257]

Nice 👍🏻

[@HarveyGrass]

What was the first and last song?? I keep coming back to this video and I want to pay this man !! Sooo cool!!

[@davemassie3726]

BADDASS!

[@robertbriquet]

I saw that guy at the jazz festival in Montréal.

[@peteytwofinger]

i used to play cymbals with my riverhead unicorn bass - still have it with the scars to prove its a keeper

[@AnthonyJamesArtist]

wow that intro!

[@pedroalagos9771]

Il était temps!!!

[@jhgeetars1172]

Trois-Rivières rules!

[@sgriffett541]

great job Steve Hill... go habs!! brother, I'm a bass player drummer. we should hook-up. Next time you're in bc!! Love your stuff... keep on blues rock'in... :]

[@JohnnyGuitaristOfficial]

Thats one way to put that *guitar neck* thru a strength test ! Lol 😂🎸💪🏻

[@GuitarJawn]

28:31 man that sounds good

[@18JR78]

👌🏽👌🏽

[@MBSTYLE57]

HEY STEVE , De te voir la , avec tes affaires , WOW ( tsé , moi j ai grandi dans une ptite ville de la rive sud , ( genre = maternelle en anglais , 1 re annéee en anglais ( = pus d place en francais , alors = double la 1er année en francais... tsé en 4er année , c était moi l prof d anglais !!! nammsayin ! So it all came back in high school, hanging with the guys in summer. First thing i knew , i was kick-up from my place , cause of the old man , so i went out on the road with my best friends , BUT ; may 1977 ; 6 months in the hospital ,so my friends carrried -on.... so as i came out = no more band , so i went the Cegep StLaurent and Concordia , and 25 years High school teacher = St-Agathe high school ... ( i know. boring stuff !!!)Fa que tsé Steve , j aime ton anglais ! ben voyons donc ! Ou est-ce que tu as pogné ca a 3Rivieres ??? A plus cool dude , always liked your vibe STeve !!! Carry on Steve ! jè espere qu un jour on prendra une ptite biere ensemble ! TU ES COOL STEVE ! A +

[@koski666]

Steve, you should try the Boss OC-5! The Range mode could help you having the low octaves only on the two lower strings if you want. It works quite well.

[@premierguitar]

Sorta like what Gilad showed in his Rundown. Good suggestion Jonathan!

[@stratofever1]

Boss OC-5 has a cool Low Note priority, but it sounds terrible (A Little Thunder does the same as the OC-5 but works better) ... but For Steve's method of playing he should go for a EHX BASS 9 to replace the POG! Le Jour et la Nuit mon Steve, tu vas capoter!!!

[@sylvainbeauvais4600]

Still the best string and still good sound

[@alohamark3025]

Who needs Meg White, Eh? Or Jack White, for that matter. Steve Hill formed the perfect, one-man band.

[@paulcowart3174]

What model is his favorite Collins acoustic ? Thanks

[@cactus-mcjacktus]

as a bass player, why do i want his “bass” tone?

[@jazzercise300]

so his rig is a 59 les paul, klon centaur, tube tape echo, buncha old tweed amps and then a can filled with some coins

[@johnnywinter8892]

He sure is one of our few great ones up here in Canada... Saw him back in 96, you knew he was born to play guitar. He plays the blues the right way, but he also can rock like hell too! Back in the 2000's he formed an ass-kickin' rock trio...they totally nailed it! Check these links! kzbin.info/www/bejne/aYqWeIB5ipiLfbs kzbin.info/www/bejne/bpS5YoOJobl7aac kzbin.info/www/bejne/jXbTapukq8yVaJo

[@marknorris3769]

is he plugging the collings parlor straight in ?

[@premierguitar]

Collings (with Fishman Rare Earth soundhole pickup) into his 1964 Fender Super Reverb.

[@marc1seguin275]

What song is it at the intro ?