Nugent initially gained fame as the lead guitarist of The Amboy Dukes , a band formed in that played psychedelic rock [2] [3] and hard rock. Nugent is known for his Gibson Byrdland , his bluesy and frenzied guitar playing and his energetic live shows. Holmes , Brian Howe , and Meat Loaf. In later years, Nugent drew attention for his outspoken conservative political views, as well as his strident advocacy of hunting and gun ownership rights. He has made a number of controversial and threatening statements against advocates of gun control ; in one case, the Secret Service investigated him based on comments about President Barack Obama. Nugent grew up in a military family; his father was a career army sergeant.