History of Gibson Guitars

The name Gibson is synonymous with quality guitars. The Gibson Les Paul and SG models have been used on many of the most famous rock and roll recordings of all time. Players such as Angus Young, Tommy Iommi and Slash have all chosen Gibsons as their primary instruments. Though the company has undergone many changes over the years, it still remains a leader in the world-wide guitar market.

History

Originally started by banjo maker Orville Gibson, the Gibson Guitar company has been manufacturing guitars since the late 1890s. The company struggled through 1970's and '80s, after it was purchased by the Norlin Corporation, but has regained its prowess after being bought by private investors in 1986.

Types

The Gibson Corporation sells many different brands of instruments including Epiphone, Baldwin, Wurlitzer and Kramer.

Time Frame

Gibson began making archtop guitars in the early 20th century and started making acoustic and hollow-body electric guitars in the 1930s. Gibson first started selling solid-body electric guitars in the 1950s when they released the first line of Les Paul guitars.

Geography

The Gibson company was originally founded in Kalamazoo, Michigan, but is now headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee. The company moved in 1986 when it was close to filing bankruptcy. The move, and new investors, have been credited with the companies turn around.

Expert Insight

Gibson guitars are often more expensive than their rivals, or knock-offs, but the quality of the instrument is definitely worth the price.

Fun Fact

Many of the original Gibson guitar builders remained in Kalamazoo after the company moved to Nashville. Because of this, Kalamazoo became known as one of the best cities in America to get a guitar repaired or upgraded.

Famous Ties

Many famous guitarists have used Gibson guitars including Joe Perry, Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page and Jimi Hendrix.

Resources

• Gibson Guitar Homepage