Chris Bird

Chris was Editor of Total Guitar magazine from 2020 until its closure in 2024, when he became Lesson Editor for Guitar World, MusicRadar and Guitar Player. Prior to taking over as Editor, he helmed Total Guitar's world-class tab and tuition section for 12 years, helping thousands of guitarists learn how to play the instrument. A former guitar teacher, Chris trained at the Academy of Contemporary Music (ACM) in Guildford, UK, and held a degree in Philosophy & Popular Music. During his career, Chris interviewed guitar legends including Brian May and Jimmy Page, while championing new artists such as Yungblud and Nova Twins. Chris was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer in April 2024 and died in May 2025.

Latest articles by Chris Bird

VIDEO: Mattias IA Eklundh new video out today

By Chris Bird Last updated 26 January 17

The Swedish axe wizard covers AC/DC's classic track 'Hell's Bells' on latest album, 'Freak Guitar: The Smorgasbord'

Singles And Albums

Gear4Music Dreadnought Electro Acoustic

By Chris Bird Last updated 26 January 17

Gear4music get in on the super-budget electro acoustic act with their dreadnought guitar

Acoustic Guitars

Will it melt your face? Quite possibly...

Bruce Bouillet - The Order Of Control review

By Chris Bird Last updated 26 January 17

Not as aggressive as early Racer X, but it's a decent listen for shred fiends

Singles And Albums

Red Dragon Cartel - Red Dragon Cartel review

By Chris Bird Last updated 26 January 17

Ex-Ozzy Osbourne guitarist takes us back to the 80s once again

Singles And Albums

Opinion: Richie Sambora - a guilty pleasure justified

By Chris Bird Last updated 25 January 17

Following TG203's Richie Sambora interview, Total Guitar's Music Editor, Chris Bird, explains the method behind the moose.

Guitars

Opinion: Top 5 (post-'Kid A') Radiohead guitar tracks

By Chris Bird Last updated 26 January 17

Monthly posts from the man who sorts the tabs

Guitars

Opinion: What makes a good cover song?

By Chris Bird Last updated 25 January 17

TG204 (on sale now) features the full tab for Santana's iconic Fleetwood Mac cover 'Black Magic Woman'. Here TG's Music Editor, Chris Bird, sets out his ideas on the formula behind successful covers.

Singles And Albums