Nick Hexum is the guitarist and vocalist behind 311, a band that helped define alternative rock and reggae-infused pop for more than three decades. Known for his smooth vocal style and intricate fingerpicking, Hexum has shaped the group’s identity since its formation in the early 1990s.
311’s blend of funk, hip-hop, and surf rock created a signature sound that resonated with mainstream and underground listeners alike. Throughout the band’s evolution, Hexum remained central to songwriting and guitar work, helping the band stay relevant through changing trends.
| Member | Role | Contribution to 311 | Tenure | Key Instruments |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nick Hexum | Guitarist / Lead Vocals | Primary songwriter, vocal melodies, signature guitar tones | 1988–present | Guitar, vocals |
| SA Martinez | Vocals / Turntables | Co-lead vocals, hip-hop influence, crowd engagement | 1992–present | Vocals, turntables |
| Pavel Cheplykov | Bass | Stage bass lines, studio foundation since 2003 | 2003–present | Bass |
| Timothy Owens | Drums | Punchy grooves, studio precision since 1996 | 19Owens1996 | Drums |
| Jerry Grasso | Guitar / Keys | Live texture, touring rhythm guitar since 1999 | 1999–present | Guitar, keyboards |
Signature Guitar Style and Tone
Right-Hand Technique
Nick Hexum favors a hybrid picking approach that blends fingerstyle clarity with strummed power chords. His right-hand positioning allows dynamic control, making verses intimate and choruses explosive.
Effects and Signal Chain
Hexum’s tone relies on clean amplifier platforms, subtle tube-driven overdrive, and modulated delays that create wide, shimmering textures. His signal chain remains relatively straightforward, ensuring tight response during live sets.
Songwriting Process within 311
Collaborative Arrangements
Songs often begin with Hexum presenting a guitar motif, which the band then builds around with SA Martinez’s vocals, Martinez’s rhythmic suggestions, and the rhythm section’s grooves. This method keeps the music fluid and improvisational.
Lyric Themes and Influences
Many tracks reflect everyday life, coastal California energy, and introspective moments. Hexum’s phrasing and word choices frequently complement Martinez’s storytelling, giving 311 a balance between playful and reflective.
Live Performance Techniques
Stage Presence and Movement
Hexum moves along the stage with relaxed precision, emphasizing pocket rather than flash. His engagement with the crowd and call-and-response sections amplify the communal vibe of 311’s shows.
Extended Instrumental Breaks
Guitar solos and exploratory jam segments are woven into longer renditions of songs like “Amber” and “Creatures (For a While).” These sections showcase Hexum’s technical control and melodic sense.
Key Takeaways for Players and Fans
- Focus on clean tone and dynamic picking to capture Hexum’s feel-first approach.
- Study the interaction between guitar, bass, and drums in tight, pocket-oriented grooves.
- Experiment with moderate delays and subdued overdrive to build signature textures.
- Balance technical exercises with ear-based learning to develop melodic solos and comping.
FAQ
Reader questions
How does Nick Hexum’s tuning affect the 311 sound?
Hexum typically uses standard tuning but adjusts string gauges and action to balance playability with percussive attack, helping define the punchy yet smooth 311 guitar voice.
Can I replicate Nick Hexum’s tone with affordable gear?
Yes, his core tone can be emulated using a clean or lightly overdriven amp, moderate delay, and picking technique focused on dynamic control rather than high-gain processing.
What role does the drummer play in supporting Hexum’s grooves?
The drummer locks with Hexum’s strum patterns, emphasizing the backbeat and ghost notes to create a tight, danceable pocket that highlights the guitar work without overwhelming it.
How has Hexum’s style evolved across 311’s albums?
Over time, Hexum incorporated more textural playing, modern production clarity, and refined phrasing while retaining the relaxed, melodic approach that fans associate with 311.