Part keyboard, part guitar, the keytar has been injecting music with eccentric energy for decades. Let’s unravel the origins and evolution of this hybrid instro-beast!
What is a Keytar?
A keytar is a performance-friendly synth hung with a shoulder strap like an axe. It combines a synthesizer keyboard with a guitar-style neck and fretboard. Keytars allow keyboardists to roam the stage untethered.
The Origin Story
Invented in Italy in the 1960s, early keytars like the Vivi-Tone Clavioline were clunky suits with keyboards worn like armor. Lighter models emerged in the 1970s-80s from Moog and Yamaha.
Shredding the Music Scene
Keytars became staples of new wave, prog, and funk. Artists like Herbie Hancock, Jan Hammer, and George Duke embraced keytars in the 80s. Later, groups like Chromeo brought retro keytar cool.
Modern Keytar Revival
While fading in the 90s, the keytar has seen renewed interest from artists like Ke$ha and Lady Gaga putting their own flamboyant spin on it. Advances make modern keytars lighter and more playable.
Part novelty, part serious chops machine, keytars give performers the best of both worlds – keyboards and showmanship. These eccentric axes continue slicing across genres with attitude and energy. Let the shredding commence!
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I always love the tune
Of course it has different varieties of lovely tones. Thanks for the comment.