Contact Shane Speal
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I built my first cigar box guitar about 30 years ago from barn wood and a Swisher Sweets box. Since then, I’ve spent my time exploring homemade instruments and the people who create them.
My work has been featured in outlets like NPR, Guitar World, Premier Guitar, and Vintage Guitar Magazine, and I’ve been part of the modern revival of the cigar box guitar.
If you’re reaching out about an article, collaboration, or media contact, fill out the form below.
Based in York, PA.
In Memory of Ian "Scotty" Scott
Original creator of CigarBoxGuitars.com
Over 20 years ago, CigarBoxGuitars.com was borne through the work of Ian "Scotty" Scott, a musician, cigar box guitar player and web designer. The website has always featured history, building tips and more and it has inspired thousands of people to make and play their own instruments.
In the late 70's and early 80's, Scotty was a rhythm guitarist in local bands and a DJ in England. He eventually moved to America where he would marry his online sweetheart, Debi. Together, they entertained senior living residences around the Savannah area, Debi singing caberet music and Scotty as the sound engineer. As their act progressed, Scotty started playing guitar to enhance the show. Debi says, "he played good rhythm guitar and knew how to use fills for best effect ...especially in any country songs we did."
Scotty was part of the original Yahoo! group for cigar box guitars and would spend many evenings encouraging others as they tried to make their own.
His work touched thousands of folks. We will miss him dearly.