06/02/2026
Just for kicks, I googled notable artists who have used the super cheap, yet classic Boss DS-Distortion pedal. Check it out!
Kurt Cobain: The Nirvana frontman famously relied on the DS-1 for a fierce, raw tone, specifically throughout the band's debut album Bleach and as a staple during the Nevermind era.
Steve Vai: The guitar virtuoso has used the DS-1 on his pedalboard since the beginning of his career for his iconic, multi-dimensional lead tones.
Joe Satriani: The legendary shredder used the DS-1 for years and has kept one in his rig even when experimenting with other equipment to nail specific signature sounds.
John Frusciante: The Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist has incorporated the DS-1 (along with its sibling, the DS-2) into his legendary pedalboard setup for gritty, expressive riffs.
Other Notable Users: The pedal has also been a fixture for artists like Billie Joe Armstrong (Green Day), Billy Corgan (Smashing Pumpkins), and Robert Smith (The Cure).
