logo Mon, 23 Dec 2024 13:35:15 GMT

The Gibson 335 Book


Synopsis


ÊThe Gibson 335 Guitar BookÊ tells the story of Gibson's ES-335 and related models as played by B.B. King Alvin Lee and Eric Clapton among other virtuosos. It's full of great guitars cool players and fascinating historical detail. The book traces the story from Gibson's first thinline models to the company's signature instruments and modern re-creations of today.ÞThe book is in the tradition of Tony Bacon's bestselling guitar series with a carefully researched story a gallery section of full-color pictures of the most important guitars and players and a reference section detailing production years and specifications.ÞThe 335 was launched in 1958. It had a double-cutaway body but the interesting features were hidden inside. A solid block in an otherwise hollow body created a new semi-solid structure cleverly combining the sonic qualities of a hollowbody guitar and a solidbody. Variants included the stereo 345 and the upscale 355 and players have lined up ever since for a taste of these attractively different flavors.ÞSome of those players featured in the book include Larry Carlton Dave Grohl (Foo Fighters) Peter Hayes (Black Rebel Motorcycle Club) Justin Hayward (Moody Blues) Eric Clapton Pepper Keenan (Down) B.B. King Elvin Bishop (Butterfield Blues Band) Alvin Lee (Ten Years After) Alex Lifeson (Rush) Eddie Phillips (the Creation) Johnny Marr (the Smiths) Lee Ritenour Andy Summers (the Police) Bill Nelson (Be-Bop Deluxe) and Andrew White (Kaiser Chiefs).

Summary

Chapter 1: The Birth of an Icon

* Traces the origins of the Gibson ES-335 from the 1950s, when Les Paul desired a solid-body electric guitar.
* Real example: Les Paul's "Number One" guitar, a custom-built model that inspired the ES-335's design.

Chapter 2: The Golden Era (1958-1964)

* Highlights the early production models of the ES-335 and their rapid rise in popularity.
* Real example: The 1958 ES-335 Standard played by Elvis Presley in his iconic "Jailhouse Rock" performance.

Chapter 3: Variations on a Theme

* Explores the various models and variations of the ES-335, including the Custom, Dot, and Monopole.
* Real example: The 1964 Gibson ES-335TD "Lucille," B.B. King's signature guitar.

Chapter 4: The '70s and '80s

* Discusses the changes and challenges faced by Gibson in these decades, including the decline in popularity of semi-hollowbody guitars.
* Real example: The 1980 ES-335S Pro, a short-lived model with a solid mahogany body and EMG pickups.

Chapter 5: The Revival (1990s-Present)

* Explores the renewed interest in the ES-335 and the release of new models and variations.
* Real example: The 1993 Gibson ES-335 Historic '58, a faithful recreation of the original 1958 model.

Chapter 6: The Legacy

* Celebrates the enduring legacy of the Gibson ES-335 and its impact on music history.
* Real example: The numerous renowned guitarists who have played ES-335s, including Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page, and Wes Montgomery.

Chapter 7: The Art of the ES-335

* Provides an in-depth look at the craftsmanship and design elements that make the ES-335 a unique and timeless instrument.
* Real example: The meticulous craftsmanship of a Gibson Custom Shop ES-335, featuring hand-carved body and neck.

Chapter 8: The ES-335 in Popular Culture

* Examines the presence of the ES-335 in movies, television shows, and popular music.
* Real example: The 1964 ES-335 played by John Lennon in the Beatles' iconic Shea Stadium concert.

Chapter 9: The Future of an Icon

* Speculates on the potential future of the Gibson ES-335 and its continued relevance in the music industry.
* Real example: The innovative features and design elements introduced in modern Gibson ES-335 models, such as the use of different pickup combinations and body materials.