Tone Talk with Ana Popovic | Timeless Sound

As seen in Guitar Girl Magazine Issue 23 – Fall 2023
My name is Ana Popovic; I’m a guitar player, singer, band leader, songwriter, and producer. I’ve been touring with my band-— Ana Popovic Band — for over 20 years, playing approximately 100-150 shows a year, doing what I love the most-— playing music. I’m very fortunate to do what’s been my passion and joy — playing live and making a living doing that. I love everything about my job. It’s so much more than a job! It’s love and music in one.

My latest record, POWER, merges many styles, such as soul, funk, blues, gospel, and rock, and it’s a positive and inspiring record that came from a dark place after a few difficult years in my life. It gave me POWER to keep going, and it’s just an awesome set of songs that are crafted to be played and enjoyed live.

I lead a phenomenal band on both sides of the ocean and have such a kick from enjoying their masterful performances. I consider myself a band leader who can bring out the best in players. My guitar and I have a special bond; it’s my life companion, and it shares a special place in my life.

What is your definition of tone, and how has it changed over the years?

Tone is your voice. It’s the one unique (guitar) voice that you’re gonna be remembered for. It’s that special part of you as a player that can’t be copied — it’s a combination of your touch, your hands, and the way you play your instrument mixed with the unique settings on your pedals and amps, and not to forget, each guitar is different. Each wood is unique. It’s what makes you!

Which guitars, amps, and pedals are you currently using and why?

Different ones — Mesa Boogie amps are Mark IV, Mark V, and California Tweed; and Fender amps are ‘66 Super Reverb Black Face and a Bassman.

I play mainly Fender Strats. My main guitar is all original ‘64 Strat Sunburst finish. It’s a phenomenal guitar and a true inspiration on every stage. The new build Ana Popovic Custom Shop Strat ‘Foggy’ Foggy Mirror Chrome color that I designed together with Fender Custom show master builders. It just takes my breath away with its slick design. I wanted something different and by no means was gonna copy my ‘64 Strat; I wanted something that looks and sounds hip but at the same time stays true to me as a guitarist. I got all of that in ‘Foggy.’

My road warrior— my Reissue ‘57 maple neck has been with me throughout my whole career. I have a jazz D’Angelico guitar, an Ovation 12-string acoustic, and a Martin acoustic.

Pedals vary in different pedal boards on both sides of the ocean, but I always have two original Tube Screamers, BOSS Chorus CE-2, Dunlop Wah, Dunlop Super Badass distortion, Dunlop MXR Delay, and other custom-made pedals.

I use Cordian Cables.

What about strings?

I play 11-46 DR strings Pure Blues. Love the tone and the sustain.

Are there certain recording techniques you prefer in the studio?

Not necessarily. I like to change it up. I’ve recorded so many solos on so many records; the key for me is to keep it fresh, keep it different each time. I try new stuff. Change up the routine.

How do you keep your sound consistent onstage?

Concerts where we get to use our gear, those are easy. Showcases where amps are provided and we don’t get to use our own, I have a variety of go-to pedals that work with Fender amps and Mesa amps and Marshalls. So I can get close to the sound that I need. Sometimes, you only have so much time to line check the gear, and I use the pedals that work for me when paired with most amps.

What does your practice consist of?

Some of the technical exercises mixed with some of the exercises that put emphasis on feel and jamming. I still play along to some of my favorites from back in the day to stay true to the beginnings, but I love to play along to new music that my kids turn me on to. There’s so much good music made nowadays; it’s inspiring.

Favorite guitar riff or lick that inspired you to play guitar?

Back in the day? Elmore James’ “Dust My Broom,” Albert King’s “I’ll Play the Blues for You.” It was hours of playing alongside Albert Collins ‘ “Cold, Cold Feeling.” Talking about the tone and the feel, that’s my jam! Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimi Hendrix, Buddy Guy, and many more inspired me to take guitar.

What is your advice for young women who hope to work in the music industry?

Be who you are. Don’t get intimidated, and bring your A-game to the front. Do it YOUR way.