Who played guitar on “Dirty Diana”?

Michael Jackson played the guitar solo on the song “Dirty Diana” from his 1988 album Bad. He wrote, composed, and produced all of the songs on the album himself. The song has a classic blues-rock feel with powerful electric guitars and distorted vocals throughout. Jackson’s solo is an impressive display of fast riffs and technical skill.

Michael Jackson’s Collaboration with Steve Stevens on Dirty Diana

Michael Jackson’s thirteenth studio album, ‘Bad’ was released in 1987. It featured the iconic single ‘Dirty Diana’, a rock-influenced track that many consider to be one of the most memorable songs from his extensive repertoire. Behind this remarkable song stands Steve Stevens, an American guitarist who collaborated with Jackson for the first time on ‘Dirty Diana’.

An active musician since 1976, Stevens is known for playing and writing some of Billy Idol’s greatest hits such as ‘White Wedding’, ‘Rebel Yell’ and ‘Mony Mony’. After meeting Michael Jackson at a private party hosted by Paul McCartney in 1984, he agreed to contribute guitar parts to several tracks from the ‘Bad’ album including ‘Dirty Diana’. He had only two days to record these parts so there was no room for mistakes or lengthy improvisations; he worked fast but efficiently, delivering exactly what was expected.

In addition to providing lead guitars on multiple tracks throughout the years with other well-known artists like Bon Jovi and Alice Cooper, Steven also appeared alongside Michael Jackson during live performances of ‘Dirty Diana’ in Japan. It was their last collaboration before Steve went solo but it left a lasting impression on both fans and musicians alike.

Steve Lukather’s Contribution to Dirty Diana Guitar Track

Steve Lukather’s electric guitar solo at the end of Michael Jackson’s 1988 hit “Dirty Diana” is a thing of beauty. A renowned session musician, composer and vocalist from California, Lukather has been an integral part of the LA music scene since 1975. His contribution to this classic track was critical in helping the song achieve its iconic status today.

Lukather began his career playing with legendary acts such as Toto, before stepping out on his own to take on solo projects and collaborations with other artists. His ability to merge elements of different genres – funk, rock and pop – makes him a sought-after guitarist for many studio sessions and live performances alike. Indeed, Lukather brought this creative flair to “Dirty Diana” by crafting an instantly recognizable hook that captivated listeners around the world.

The “Dirty Diana” guitar riff is widely considered one of Lukather’s finest moments – no mean feat considering he has performed alongside some of music history’s most esteemed names including Joni Mitchell, Quincy Jones and Paul McCartney. By blending elements from his diverse influences – notably blues-rock artist Eric Clapton – into this brief yet impactful moment on the track, it is easy to see why critics consider Steve Lukather a true master craftsman when it comes to capturing emotion through sound.

Jennifer Batten’s Role in Recording Dirty Diana

When the legendary Michael Jackson’s 1987 hit single, “Dirty Diana”, was released, it rocketed to the top of charts around the world. As people sang along to its powerful chorus and unforgettable guitar solo, few were aware that the person playing those iconic riffs was not a famous rock guitarist or even a session musician. Instead, it was an up-and-coming virtuoso by the name of Jennifer Batten.

At the time, Jennifer had already begun making a name for herself in Los Angeles’ competitive music scene with her smooth fusion of jazz and rock styles. When she got word from her friend David Williams (Michael Jackson’s lead guitarist) that she would be asked to record on Dirty Diana, she could scarcely believe her luck.

Jennifer arrived at the studio ready to make history and quickly went about recording her parts while under immense pressure from both producers and musicians alike; after all, this was Michael Jackson. She put aside any nerves however when faced with his magnetic presence in order to deliver some truly blistering solos that undoubtedly helped make this song what it is today. Jennifer’s impressive musical talents have since earned her gigs with Jeff Beck among other big names but there can be no doubt that one of her most important contributions was providing lead guitar work on “Dirty Diana”.

The Debate Surrounding the Actual Guitarist on Dirty Diana

The debate surrounding who played guitar on Michael Jackson’s song “Dirty Diana” has been an ongoing discussion for years. Many assume that Steve Stevens of Billy Idol fame is the guitarist, as he was credited with the lead guitar in the music video for the song. Yet, upon closer inspection, some believe it to be someone else entirely.

Fans point out that although many credit Stevens as the guitarist due to his appearance in the music video, there are sonic discrepancies that suggest otherwise. Specifically, some claim that it sounds more like a smooth and wah-driven style of playing found in Eddie Van Halen’s playing rather than Steven’s rocker aesthetic. When listening closely you can hear a distinct vibrato on certain notes suggesting it might not have been recorded by Stevens at all.

Ultimately these claims remain unsubstantiated as Michael Jackson himself never revealed who actually played guitar on “Dirty Diana”. Though this will remain an unsolved mystery forever more, fans will still enjoy debating who might have been responsible for those unforgettable riffs heard during one of Jackson’s most iconic songs ever released.

Final Verdict: Who Actually Played Guitar on “Dirty Diana”?

The raging debate over who played guitar on Michael Jackson’s iconic song, “Dirty Diana,” has yet to be definitively solved. After multiple listens and long debates among fans, the answer may have finally been found: guitarist Steve Stevens.

Stevens’ career began in New York City as a session musician and eventually worked with Billy Idol where he developed his signature sound of combining punk, metal, rock and pop genres. His involvement in the music industry allowed him to collaborate with artists ranging from Pink Floyd to Eddie Van Halen – all factors that contribute to his notoriety and legend status in today’s society.

His contribution to “Dirty Diana” is nothing short of amazing; it was what truly made this track come alive for millions of listeners around the world. With quick riffs driving each bridge section, Steve Stevens’ unique playing style can be heard throughout the entire song. It’s not difficult to pinpoint where exactly he plays – without fail he absolutely shines during every single solo and chorus breakdown. His presence certainly makes a difference when you compare the original version of “Dirty Diana” before Steven came into play versus after.

Ultimately, if you listen closely enough there is no doubt that Steve Stevens was indeed the one who provided those famous guitar licks on Michael Jackson’s classic track “Dirty Diana.”.


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