In an exclusive interview with Forbes, rock legend Ted Nugent opened up about the origins of some of his biggest hits and shared his thoughts on the guitarists who shaped rock history. Known for his electrifying riffs and unapologetic personality, Nugent offered a behind-the-scenes look at the creative moments that birthed classics like “Stranglehold” and “Cat Scratch Fever”, while also weighing in on the debate over rock’s greatest guitarists.
The Birth of Stranglehold
Discussing Stranglehold, Nugent recalled how the song was born from an unplanned, almost mystical moment. Experimenting with his Byrdland guitar, he let loose a riff inspired by Chuck Berry and Bo Diddley, filling the room with a raw, blues-infused groove.
“I was just messing around,” he said. “Then I saw the look on my bandmates’ faces—we all knew something powerful was happening.”
The jam stretched on for 20 minutes, with Nugent improvising lyrics on the spot, letting the music dictate the direction. He admitted that at the time, he had no idea what the song’s final lyrics or title would be—he simply followed the energy of the moment.
Despite resistance from the mainstream music industry, Nugent believed in his sound. The final version of Stranglehold became more than just a song; it was a defiant message to an industry that doubted him—an anthem that proved he could sell out shows without their backing.
Cat Scratch Fever: A Riff That Stuck
Similarly, Cat Scratch Fever was born in a moment of pure instinct. While warming up before a show in Pittsburgh, Nugent stumbled upon a riff that immediately caught his band’s attention.
“Every time I play something new, the guys always go, ‘What’s that?’” Nugent laughed, recalling how his bandmates instantly recognized the magic of the melody.
The song’s quirky title came from an unexpected source—a medical journal his wife had once brought home. When the phrase popped into his head that night in Pittsburgh, it felt like a perfect fit for the song’s infectious energy.
Who Are Rock’s Greatest Guitarists?
During the interview, the conversation turned to rock’s most celebrated guitarists, with names like Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page, and Jeff Beck entering the discussion. While Nugent acknowledged their undeniable talent, he challenged the idea that any one guitarist could be crowned the greatest.
“I could name a hundred guys who belong in the top ten,” he quipped, suggesting that rock history is filled with underrated musicians who deserve recognition. He gave a special nod to Jim McCarty of Cactus, an unsung hero whose guitar work, he believes, rivals some of the biggest names in the industry.
That said, Nugent recognized the legendary status of icons like Jimi Hendrix and Eddie Van Halen, calling them game-changers whose unforgettable riffs have left an everlasting mark on rock.
“It’s not just about technical skill,” he explained. “It’s about the impact—the way a guitar line sticks in your soul.”
A Lifelong Passion for the Guitar
As the interview wrapped up, one thing was abundantly clear—Ted Nugent’s passion for music remains as fierce as ever. Whether reminiscing about his greatest hits or championing the unsung heroes of rock, his love for the guitar shines through in every note he plays and every story he tells.
