Paul Gilbert began his professional journey in Los Angeles in 1984, moving across the country at seventeen to study at the Guitar Institute of Technology. His rapid advancement as a guitarist led him to a teaching position at the school by 1985, positioning him at the center of the city’s technical hard rock scene during the mid-1980s.
Early Development and Racer X
Raised near Greensburg, Pennsylvania, Gilbert played local clubs by age fifteen. After contact with Mike Varney of Shrapnel Records, he secured his place at the Musicians Institute. In 1985, he co-founded Racer X with Juan Alderete, Harry Gschoesser, and Jeff Martin. The group became known for complex, high-speed compositions such as 'Scarified' and 'Technical Difficulties.' Gilbert released the instructional video Intense Rock during this period to document his alternate picking methods.
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In 1988, Gilbert partnered with bassist Billy Sheehan, drummer Pat Torpey, and vocalist Eric Martin to form Mr. Big. The band achieved global commercial success with their 1991 album Lean into It, which reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100 with the single 'To Be with You.' Despite an initial breakup in 1996, the original lineup reunited in 2009 for a world tour and the recording of the studio album What If...
Later Career and Recording Projects
Gilbert launched a solo career in 1996, resulting in numerous album releases. He continued to balance solo work with band reunions, including the production of the 2017 Mr. Big album Defying Gravity. His contributions to the instrument have been recognized by several publications, including Guitar One and Guitar World, which ranked him among the fastest players in the genre.
Fast facts
- Born: 1966, Carbondale, United States
- Education: Musicians Institute
- Primary Bands: Racer X, Mr. Big
- Key Technique: Alternate picking
- 1991 Billboard Hot 100 #1: To Be with You
- Career Start: 1984 move to Los Angeles
Questions readers ask
What is Paul Gilbert's educational background?
He attended the Guitar Institute of Technology (GIT) in Los Angeles, where he later served as an instructor.
Which bands is he most associated with?
He is a co-founder of Mr. Big and a foundational member of the metal band Racer X.
Achievements
- Educated at Musicians Institute
- Worked as guitarist and composer
