Gibson is one of the world’s oldest and most influential guitar manufacturers. The company traces its origins to Orville Gibson, a skilled instrument maker in Kalamazoo, Michigan, who began building mandolins and guitars in the 1890s. The Gibson Mandolin-Guitar Manufacturing Company was formally established in 1902.
Early Era
Gibson became famous for developing arched-top (archtop) guitars, inspired by violin construction. These instruments were louder and more resonant than many competitors, making them popular with jazz and big-band musicians during the 1920s and 1930s. Models such as the L-5 helped establish Gibson’s reputation for craftsmanship and innovation.
The Electric Age
In the 1930s, Gibson began producing some of the earliest electric guitars, including the ES-150, which became associated with pioneering jazz guitarist Charlie Christian. This helped usher in the era of amplified guitar music.
The Les Paul Era
In 1952, Gibson introduced the Les Paul, a solid-body electric guitar developed under company president Ted McCarty and endorsed by guitarist Les Paul. The Les Paul became one of the most iconic guitars in history, known for its rich tone and sustain.
Other legendary models followed:
- ES-335 (1958) – a semi-hollow electric guitar.
- SG (1961) – initiall named Les Paul, a lighter, double-cutaway design.
- Flying V and Explorer (late 1950s) – futuristic designs that later became rock and metal classics.
Modern Gibson
The company changed ownership several times during the 20th century and faced financial difficulties, including a Chapter 11 bankruptcy restructuring in 2018. After emerging from bankruptcy later that year, Gibson refocused on its core guitar business and remains headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee.
It is truly remarkable that the style of the Les Paul model has remained virtually unchanged since its inception in the 1950’s. There are a number of Gibson’s in the pile..
