Tommy Thayer, born in Portland, Oregon in 1960, grew up inspired by ’60s pop and ’70s hard rock, picking up guitar at 13 and later founding the hard-rock band Black ’N Blue.
After moving to Southern California in 1983, the band quickly found success, signing with Geffen Records and touring internationally. Their connection with Gene Simmons eventually led Tommy to collaborate with KISS, paving the way for his role as the band’s lead guitarist.
I was thrilled when in 2008 I became the proud recipient of my own Hughes & Kettner signature amplifier; the Duotone Tommy Thayer. I knew immediately that it was right because the force and tonality of this amplifier was perfect for what I needed in KISS. Through the years with KISS I can’t tell you how many fans, friends and guitar players always ask me, “What’s that amp you’re using onstage with the killer tone?” I’m always proud to answer, “It’s a Hughes & Kettner.”
