Janick Gers

Janick Robert Gers (pronounced /ˈjænɪk ˈɡɛərz/) (born 27 January 1957 in Hartlepool, England) is one of three current guitarists in the English Heavy metal band Iron Maiden and a songwriter for the band. His father, Bolesław, was an officer of the Polish Navy.

Career

Gers was the lead guitarist of the band White Spirit before joining Gillan, a group formed by former Deep Purple vocalist Ian Gillan. After Gillan disbanded, he joined Gogmagog which included former Iron Maiden vocalist Paul Di'Anno and drummer Clive Burr. Gers also performed with other artists including former Marillion vocalist Fish. In 1990, he played guitar on the first solo album of Iron Maiden vocalist Bruce Dickinson, Tattooed Millionaire. During the recording of the album he was asked to join Iron Maiden in place of departing Adrian Smith. He has remained with the band ever since, even after Smith rejoined the band in 1999.

Gers' playing style uses heavy distortion and is noted for having a very raw tone. He prefers staccato picking instead of playing legato using hammer-ons and pull-offs.

Gers is also left-handed although he plays guitar right-handed; as seen at the "Rock In Rio" DVD signing autographs.

Gers' main influences are Ritchie Blackmore, Jeff Beck and Irish blues guitarist Rory Gallagher. He is noted for his energetic stage presence. He can often be seen bouncing up and down and occasionally does tricks with his guitar, such as spinning it around his body while playing, or throwing it into the air, catching it.