3. BC Rich

B.C. Rich Guitars & Basses – A Short History

B.C. Rich is an American guitar and bass manufacturer best known for its aggressive, futuristic designs and strong association with hard rock and heavy metal music. The company was founded by Bernardo (Bernie) Chavez Rico in California, who began building acoustic instruments before moving into electric guitars in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

The first original B.C. Rich electric design was the Seagull, introduced in the early 1970s. It featured innovative neck-through-body construction, excellent sustain, and distinctive styling that set it apart from traditional Fender and Gibson designs.

During the late 1970s and especially the 1980s, B.C. Rich became famous for its radical body shapes such as the Mockingbird, Bich, Warlock, Ironbird, and Stealth. These instruments became iconic among metal musicians and helped define the visual image of heavy metal guitar playing.

The company experienced rapid growth but also several ownership and licensing changes in the late 1980s and 1990s, which affected quality and reputation. Founder Bernie Rico regained control in 1993 and worked to restore the brand until his death in 1999. The company has since undergone further changes in ownership and continues to produce guitars and basses today.

Famous B.C. Rich Players

Guitarists

  • Kerry King (Slayer) – Warlock and Kerry King Signature model
  • Lita Ford – one of the most visible B.C. Rich artists of the 1980s.
  • Dave Mustaine (Megadeth) – used Bich guitars early in his career.
  • Paul Stanley (KISS) – known for using the Stealth model. ]
  • Slash (Guns N’ Roses) – used Mockingbird models.

Bassists

  • Nikki Sixx (Mötley Crüe) – associated with B.C. Rich basses.
  • Blackie Lawless (W.A.S.P.) – used B.C. Rich guitars and basses extensively.
  • Gene Simmons (KISS) – worked with B.C. Rich on signature bass designs.

Notable B.C. Rich Models

Guitars

  • Seagull (1970s) – the original B.C. Rich design.
  • Mockingbird (1976) – one of the company’s most successful designs.
  • Bich (1977) – famous for its elaborate electronics and 10-string versions.
  • Warlock (1981) – perhaps the most recognizable B.C. Rich model.
  • Ironbird (1980s) – popular among thrash and metal players.

Basses

  • Mockingbird Bass – one of the earliest and most respected B.C. Rich basses.
  • Warlock Bass – widely used in hard rock and metal.
  • Bich Bass – distinctive styling with premium electronics.
  • Innovator Bass – introduced during the late 1980s.