Nick Hipa

Biography

Nick Hipa, born in 1986 in the United States, is an acclaimed guitarist and composer best known for his work in the heavy metal and metalcore genres. He started his musical journey at a young age, picking up the guitar and honing his skills through various local bands during his teenage years. His passion for music drove him to explore different styles, ultimately leading him to form a band that would later become known as As I Lay Dying. Hipa's early influences included metal legends such as Metallica and Slayer, which shaped his approach to guitar playing and songwriting, focusing on technical skill and intricate melodies. Hipa gained significant recognition as a member of As I Lay Dying, a band he joined in 2001. The group quickly made a name for themselves in the metalcore scene with their breakthrough album, "Frail Words Collapse" (2003), which featured key tracks like "94 Hours" and "Confined." Throughout the years, Hipa contributed to other successful albums like "An Ocean Between Us" (2007) and "Awakened" (2012), showcasing his exceptional guitar work and songwriting abilities. The band's relentless touring and dedication to their craft brought them commercially successful singles and a loyal fan base worldwide, solidifying their status in contemporary metal music. Regarding his musical style, Nick Hipa is known for blending melodic death metal with metalcore elements, employing intricate guitar riffs, harmonies, and dynamic song structures. He often utilizes a variety of techniques, such as alternate picking and sweep picking, to create complex compositions. Hipa's preferred gear includes signature models known for their quality and tone. He is frequently seen playing a 2013 ESP Eclipse-I CTM and a signature model from ESP, which features active EMG 81 and 60 pickups. His amplifiers of choice are the Mesa/Boogie Mark IV and the ENGL Powerball, which deliver the heavy and defined tones that complement his playing style. As of 2023, Nick Hipa continues to influence the metal scene, both through his musical contributions and as a mentor to aspiring musicians. Although his work with As I Lay Dying has faced challenges, including lineup changes, he remains active in the industry. Hipa also engages with fans through social media and guitar clinics, sharing insights into his techniques and gear preferences. His legacy is characterized by his technical prowess and innovation as a guitarist, and he is celebrated as an integral figure in shaping the sound of modern metal music.