From acoustic to electric, guitars have helped shape the history of music. Electric guitars influenced the beginnings of rock ‘n’ roll in the 1950s and have even come to represent this musical movement as a whole. Regardless of the genre, it’s hard to think of the famous guitarists throughout history without also thinking of the instruments they used in their popular tracks. Sometimes, the guitars even became as popular as the musicians who played them.
Let’s take a look at six of the most famous guitars throughout music history.
1. Prince’s “Cloud”
Price’s sleek white “Cloud” guitar was custom-built by luthier David Rusan in the early 1980s. This curvy instrument rose to prominence when it was featured in Prince’s “Purple Rain” film. It was then eventually reproduced by Schecter guitars.
2. Gibson SG
The Gibson SG, which was created in the early 1960s, featured a double-cutaway shape. Just like the rest of Gibson’s line of guitars, it was built with a focus on sound excellence, quality and craftsmanship. Because of this pedigree of performance, rock guitarists ranging from Carlos Santana to Angus Young chose this guitar to deliver their hits.
3. Gene Simmons’ “Axe” Bass
Gene Simmons’ “Axe” bass delivered a fierce presence on stage. Styled like a battleaxe, this bass helped Gene Simmons of Kiss deliver hard rock starting in the late 1970s. Of course, it also went well with the band’s flamboyant appearance and performances.
4. Gretsch White Falcon
With its white finish, gold trim and eye-catching falcon detailing, the Gretsch White Falcon is no doubt a memorable guitar. Because this guitar produced sounds that were just as stunning as its appearance, it saw use by famous guitarists ranging from Chet Atkins to Mike Campbell of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.
5. Neil Young’s “Old Black” Gibson Les Paul
Neil Young’s “Old Black” is a Goldtop Gibson Les Paul, and its owner has shown it a lot of love and customization over the years. This dark, sleek electric guitar has been featured on the majority of his studio albums.
6. Paul McCartney’s Höfner Bass
Paul McCartney’s Höfner bass was a symmetrical instrument shaped like a violin that was introduced in the mid-1950s. When the Beatles would tour, this guitar was always in hand to help deliver their beloved hits.
Record Head: Your Source for Guitars in West Allis
At Record Head, we have an extensive inventory of cool guitars that could be famous in the right hands. With our competitive pricing, no matter where you are in your musical journey or what your budget is, we have something for you.
In addition to guitars, we also carry an extensive inventory of drum sets, keyboards, brass musical instruments and percussion instruments. If you’re looking for a guitar you can make your own, stop by our store in West Allis today and our experienced staff will help you find the perfect fit.
