Ken Gulliksen: The California Rock Guitarist and Songwriter

Ken Gulliksen is an American guitarist and songwriter best known for his foundational role in the early lineup of the multi-platinum rock band Mr. Big. Hailing from Los Angeles, California, his musicianship helped shape the group's initial hard rock sound, contributing to their self-titled debut album which laid the groundwork for their future international success.

Early career

Born in 1955, Ken Gulliksen developed his craft in the vibrant Los Angeles music scene of the 1970s and 80s. A skilled guitarist, he built a reputation as a reliable and talented session and touring musician, which eventually led to collaborations with notable artists and a path toward forming his own significant musical project.

Breakthrough

Gulliksen's major breakthrough came in 1988 when he co-founded the rock supergroup Mr. Big alongside bassist Billy Sheehan, vocalist Eric Martin, and drummer Pat Torpey. Signed to Atlantic Records, the band's 1989 self-titled debut album, Mr. Big, was a solid introduction that garnered attention for its technical prowess and melodic hard rock style, particularly in the Japanese market where it achieved significant sales.

Key tracks

Addicted to That Rush — This opening track from the debut album became an instant fan favorite and live staple, showcasing the band's instrumental virtuosity and high-energy signature sound.

Rock & Roll Over — A driving track that exemplified the quartet's cohesive, powerful approach to classic hard rock, further establishing their musical identity.

Blame It on My Youth — This song highlighted the band's ability to blend catchy melodies with sophisticated musical arrangements, a hallmark of their early work.

Following the album's release and subsequent touring, Gulliksen made the decision to depart from Mr. Big in 1990 to pursue other musical and personal directions. He was replaced by guitarist Paul Gilbert, with whom the band later achieved global fame with the 1991 chart-topping ballad "To Be with You."

Later career and collaborations

After leaving Mr. Big, Ken Gulliksen continued his career as a musician and also became a pastor, balancing his artistic and spiritual callings. He remained active in music, performing and recording in various capacities, and has participated in reunion events with his former Mr. Big bandmates, celebrating the legacy of the group's formative years.

For fans of the technical yet accessible guitar work and melodic hard rock of early Mr. Big, similar artists include Eric Martin whose soulful vocals defined the band's sound, Billy Sheehan a fellow founding member renowned for his bass technique, and Paul Gilbert who continued shaping the band's guitar-driven direction. The style also connects to the work of Racer X which features the intense, shred-influenced playing that informed the group's musical approach.

Ken Gulliksen's music, particularly his work with Mr. Big, maintains a steady presence on classic rock FM stations and dedicated hard rock radio streams that celebrate the era's guitar heroes. His contributions are regularly featured in programming blocks highlighting the late 80s and early 90s rock scene.

The music of Ken Gulliksen can be heard on radio stations featured on our website. Listeners can discover his influential guitar work and songs by tuning into the rock stations available on onairium.com.