Springfield, Missouri has a musical history as rich as the Ozark Mountains that surround it. On Saturday, July 11^th, more than 100 customers braved the rain and showed up at 8am for the closed door portion of Springfield Music’s big summer sale. They allowed their best customers access to special pricing before the general public arrived!

Gibson Product Specialist Ken McMahan was there to lend a hand with the customers as well as talk with people who saw the “Meet Your DPS” (Dealer Product Specialist) poster and came to show off their vintage Gibsons. Don Crawford and the Gibson tour bus was a great attraction and generated loads of excitement with those in attendance.

At one point during the day, Ken walked over and saw their drum department manager Chris Ewing talking to a gentleman who was having trouble deciding between the Gibson Blues King, a small body Martin and a small body Taylor. Chris is a good salesman and used to manage their sister store in Joplin so a sale was going to be made. The customer was asking about this and that and just needed something extra to help him decide. When he handed the Gibson to Ken, he played some Robert Johnson style blues. The gentleman just smiled and said "That one plays better; it’s the one for me."

Everyone, including Springfield Music’s excellent staff, enjoyed a busy and successful day!

By Jason Jones, Custom Shop luthier

About 40 miles west of Bozeman, MT, home of the Gibson Acoustic plant lays a beautiful little valley between some scenic mountains and a river where an annual outdoor rock music festival is held called “Rockin the Rivers”. This year, our friends from the popular rock group, “Tesla”, was the headliner. When Dave Rude, guitar player for Tesla as well as his own band, The Dave Rude Band, gave me a call to attend, I immediately grabbed a buddy of mine and headed right over. 

Coming off a recent European tour, Tesla was still in fine form, rocking thousands under the big sky. In true rock and roll fashion, about half way through their set, thick black clouds filled the night sky and gave the audience a fantastic light show as the lightning flashed all around the area as the band belted out their hits such as “Little Suzie” and “Edison’s Medicine”. Frank Hannon’s and Dave Rude’s Gibsons, both electric and acoustic, were on fire as they shredded through their various solos to the delight of the music loving masses who crowded in what is normally a vacant parcel of land inhabited by gophers and the occasional rattlesnake.

The rock and roll gods were must had been watching the concert as well, because immediately following their last encore, the clouds opened up and a heavy down pour washed over everyone. I must admit, I’ve personally seen some great acts come to the festival such as Sammy Hagar and Alice Cooper, but I do believe this was my favorite experience at the Rockin the Rivers festival to date. Thanks Dave, Frank, and the rest of Tesla for giving me a night I won’t soon forget!

Here is a photo of Dave and Frank doing what they do best. 

On Tuesday, July 21, the Gibson tour bus delivered Chris Isaak to the Best Buy location north of Nashville in Madison, Tenn. Chris was there to promote his new CD Mr. Lucky.

Gibson Product Specialist Ken McMahan and Joey Osisek from Gibson Entertainment Relations were on hand for the event which featured an acoustic performance by Chris and members of his band Silvertone, guitarist Hershel Yatovitz and drummer Kenny Dale Johnson . Chris was also available to sign his CD and any Gibson or Epiphone guitar purchased during the event.

One customer, Sharon Palmer, bought a Gibson Songwriter Deluxe for Chris to sign!  Way to go Sharon!!!

Gibson Acoustic was able to reach lots of great customers in Nashville for Summer NAMM 2009 – with an excellent display of Gibson Acoustics at the Gibson Custom Shop July 16-18. Teaming up with the other GMI divisions, and supported by the fabulous Gibson Custom Shop, Gibson Acoustic used this opportunity to meet with customers from all over the world and discuss guitars and the industry in general.

Customers from Canada, Australia, Japan, as well as domestic dealers were all present. This allowed for new opportunities to show some new and limited Gibson Acoustic guitars and renew friendships with key Gibson customers.  Some of the pictures from this event follow:

Gibson Acoustic Master Luthier Ren Ferguson with Musician’s Friend’s Dave Carpenter reviewing a 20^th Anniversary L-00. Among other things, Ren and Dave are discussing the fine qualities of hide-glue construction.

Gibson Acoustic Master Luthier Ren Ferguson discusses guitars with Douglas B. Green (aka Ranger Doug of Riders In The Sky). Below Ren and Ranger Doug are looking at a vintage Gibson guitar.

Gibson Montana guitars on display at the Custom Shop

Keb’ Mo’ (aka Kevin Moore), born in South Central Los Angeles, California in October of 1951. Winner of not 1, not 2, but 3 Grammy awards. A blues singer and songwriter, as well as an actor playing roles in “Touched By An Angel”, “Shallow Water” and the last episode of “The West Wing”, AS WELL as starring in the 2007 John Sayles movie “Honeydripper” and playing the role of one of his idols, Robert Johnson, in the 1998 documentary, “Can’t You Hear The Wind Howl?”. 

It’s amazing what information the internet can provide you at a moment’s notice.

I was asked Monday afternoon by my General Manager, Doug Koffinke, if I was available the 21^st to give a special plant tour to Keb’ Mo’. Shamefully, I have to admit, although I’ve heard the name before, I had no idea who he was. Judging by his credentials that I obtained by googling “Keb’ Mo’”, however, I was impressed. A Gibson fan since the Kalamazoo, Michigan days, Keb’ was here to look at a guitar we were building him and to discuss with us a planned signature series of guitars as well. Upon meeting the man for the first time, I was taken aback. A long, lanky gentleman, dressed in a ball cap, t-shirt, jeans, and sneakers, with a big grin from ear to ear, he looked much younger than his actual age. His rather large hand absorbed my hand as he gave me an enthusiastic hand shake and expressed his pleasure to meet me. I could tell by his demeanor that he was indeed excited about checking out our facility and seeing how a Gibson acoustic guitar gets build, but most of all, he wanted to meet the people BEHIND the guitar. 

The tour was like none I’ve ever given before. With our Master Luthier Ren Ferguson giving Keb’ a crash course on the particular properties of tone woods and our director of marketing, Robi Johns, shooting photos of the event for this article, it appeared that Keb’ was having the time of his life. He was very hands-on, picking up various parts and studying them and thumping them with his fingers to hear their tonal qualities as we made our way through the different departments. The thing that really hit home for me, however, was his direct interaction with all the workers on the floor, shaking their hands, thanking them for doing the jobs that they do, signing autographs, and joking around with them, he really made them feel important. Often times, the term “hand built” in today’s society seem like only a catch phrase, but Keb’ realized that at Gibson, it means everything, and he truly, sincerely appreciated it. At one point during the tour, he actually asked an employee, Jerry Sommerfield, if he could trade places with him and actually glue in side dot markers on some fret boards. After doing several fret boards, jokes were being made in reference to perhaps doing other jobs around the plant to help with the day’s production. Funny as it seemed, I think he would have actually loved it if he had a chance. 

The tour wound down at the Master Inspector’s bench, where Patrick Hanson demonstrated to Keb’ the particular things he looked for while inspecting the final product before the guitar got cased and eventually shipped off. We stood around the bench, as Keb’ talked about a variety of subjects including his first guitar as a child, about Compton, California and the wide diversity of people who lived there (including cowboys as we found out), and even played us a hilarious improv old style country/western song from the top of his head. More hands were shaken, more autographs were signed, and more thank you’s were given out. 

Later, Keb’ remarked to Ren, Doug, and I on how impressed he was with the flow of the production line, on how so much craftsmanship goes into every guitar but done on such a large scale as to be profitable. He also talked extensively on how there was a “small town” vibe in the air, where everyone knew everyone and it wasn’t simply a soul-less line of production drones pumping out parts one after another, but that everyone puts their soul into it. One employee, Val Bolitho, a member of the custom shop, introduced herself and admitted that she too had never heard of his music, but knew he was a blues man. Modestly, Keb replied that he didn’t know if he was a “blues man” but that he was just a songwriter. I guess that’s what kept it real for me, that a man of Keb’ Mo’s reputation and critical acclaim was a lot like us folks behind the scenes in a lot of ways; he is a man doing what he loves to do, nothing more, nothing less, and that he is great at what he does. Keb’ made a lot of friends today and truly impressed a lot of people, including myself, with his wit, charisma, humor, and charm. 

I immediately ran out after the tour and picked up two of his cds, “Keep It Simple” and “Suitcase”. If you’ve never heard his music before, you are doing yourself a tragic injustice. It’s not only blues, but it is a modern blues, mixed with a slight flavor of reggae, some calypso, some pop, as well as some good ol’ Delta mixed in for good measure. I personally think that if the great Robert Johnson was alive today, he would tip his hat at this talented individual. These are going directly to my Ipod, guaranteed. Thank you, Keb’ Mo’, from all of us here at Gibson Acoustic way out in the middle of nowhere in beautiful Bozeman, Montana. You are now part of the family and we look forward to seeing you again.

Gibson had a great showing to start off the 5th Annual Targhee Fest on Friday. From Jackie Greene and his band to Grace Potter and the Nocturnals to Warren Haynes and Government Mule, it was a grand evening at Targhee. Warren closed out his two sets with an encore starting at 12:00 am with appropriately named After Midnight, with Jackie joining him for Sugaree. He had Sonny Landreth and Grace Potter join him on stage earlier.

Tift Merritt, with her vintage Gibson B 25, started off Saturday and many Gibson electrics graced the stage throughout the afternoon. The festival ended on an incredible high with a double encore performance by Keb Mo, playing his new Montana Custom Shop acoustic.

My last visit at Dietze Music in Omaha had an interesting Montana acoustic encounter. As I was changing strings two guys walked in, obviously white collar businessmen, entry level players, wanting to hammer away on some acoustics.

They tried out several guitars and kept going back to a mid priced, roughly $1400.00 guitar. I engaged the two professionals from the medical industry, introduced myself and I started asking them what they liked about the chosen guitar. They chimed in that the price was right and the feel (IE) playability was comfortable. I proceeded to explain to them that the builder in question does build a fine guitar and went into their construction and building process.

I then pulled a Songwriter Deluxe cutaway off the wall and asked them if they would try it out. We compared the two side by side in a taste test of tonal characteristics, comfort and playability. As the two were strumming away I was explaining how we cut the wood and the process that goes with our construction appointments. I talked about the human touch and passion that goes into our guitars. I went through my typical sales pitch and explained all the characteristics of the building process.

Obviously money was no concern and long story short. They thanked me for taking the time to explain the tonal qualities and characteristics of wood and what all goes into building a world class guitar.

They said hands down without a doubt that the Songwriter Deluxe better of the two. They also noticed that the harder they played the Gibson the louder it got, as opposed to the other guitar, which the harder they strummed it the less articulate it was.

I thanked them for their patronage and another Songwriter Deluxe has left the building…

Cheers to Montana

Dates: April 17th and April 24th    
Places: Gibson Day at Sam Ash Cherry Hill, NJ and Brooklyn, NY

Over the past few weeks the Gibson Tour Bus hit the road on a tour of Sam Ash stores. I had the honor of being a part of the festivities along with Tom Meyers and DPS Nick Kane. At each event we had featured artists and offered customers free re-strings of their favorite axe. Many brought in their acoustics, new and old. We had a great time servicing the guitars and talking up Montana with the enthusiastic Gibson lovers.

These events were a great success in showcasing some of Montana’s most famous guitars. The first that comes to mind was Peter Hayes of The Black Rebel Motorcycle Club performing at the Cherry Hill, NJ location. He came prepared with a 1942 J-45 Legend. Peter started of playing a sort of finger-style folk and then showed a different side of the guitar with some more rock/ blues songs. The guitar sounded so good it caused a customer to yell out after the first song “Hey, what are you playing”. Peter let him know and told him it was the best guitar he’s ever played. The crowd was impressed with the performance and afterwards we talked to a few of them and let them check out the guitar.

Another great event was at the Brooklyn location. Steve Conte from the New York Dolls performed using a modern Hummingbird. He went direct into a PA system set up outside on the sidewalk in front of the store. Through his playing style Steve showed the great dynamics and exceptional playability of the guitar. He let the crowd know he loves how the Hummingbird “accompanies his voice”. I always thought of it as a great singer/ songwriter guitar too!

After each performance we talked to customers about the guitars used and showed them what the store had in stock. It was a perfect opportunity to let customers see and hear the Gibson acoustics being used by artists and then see, hear and play them themselves. Getting the word out!

There are a lot of popular guitars on the market these days and often I’m in stores observing people shopping. Some go straight for the brands they are familiar with from Ads. Others to what was recommended and most go to what their favorite artists play.

Polishing a guitar in the acoustic room of Jim’s Music a young gentleman who had been playing various guitars asked me “Do you work for Gibson? Can you tell me why this guitar sounds so much better than everything else in here? He was holding a SJ200.

I gave him a brief history on the “King of Acoustics” and explained how the Nitro Lacquer, dovetail neck joint and hand made construction added to the sound quality. A lot of the guitars he was playing had a Polyurethane finish that can really deaden the tone. He stated that he pulled it of the wall thinking, “I have seen this guitar before”. I told him he was right, that a lot artists play the SJ200 because of its loud deep rich sound that other guitars pale in comparison. Originally built for volume and projection to be heard over Mandolins and Banjos of the Bluegrass Era it later became popular with rock musicians.

We talked for a bit and I listened to him play until his father came and pulled him out of the room. As he left he looked at me and said “Someday.” He was only 12 years old but for his age he was a good player and a smart kid. He listened to his ears first.

My last visit at Dietze Music in Omaha had an interesting Montana acoustic encounter. As I was changing strings two guys walked in, obviously white collar businessmen, entry level players, wanting to hammer away on some acoustics.

They tried out several guitars and kept going back to a mid priced, roughly $1400.00 guitar. I engaged the two professionals from the medical industry, introduced myself and I started asking them what they liked about the chosen guitar. They chimed in that the price was right and the feel (IE) playability was comfortable. I proceeded to explain to them that the builder in question does build a fine guitar and went into their construction and building process.

I then pulled a Songwriter Deluxe cutaway off the wall and asked them if they would try it out. We compared the two side by side in a taste test of tonal characteristics, comfort and playability. As the two were strumming away I was explaining how we cut the wood and the process that goes with our construction appointments. I talked about the human touch and passion that goes into our guitars. I went through my typical sales pitch and explained all the characteristics of the building process.

Obviously money was no concern and long story short. They thanked me for taking the time to explain the tonal qualities and characteristics of wood and what all goes into building a world class guitar.

They said hands down without a doubt that the Songwriter Deluxe better of the two. They also noticed that the harder they played the Gibson the louder it got, as opposed to the other guitar, which the harder they strummed it the less articulate it was.

 I thanked them for their patronage and another Songwriter Deluxe has left the building …

You never know what kind of interesting guitars you might run into at a Gibson authorized dealer, and Music Gallery in Highland Park, Ill., just north of Chicago is no exception. On my first visit to Frank’s shop (Music Gallery’s owner) I was treated to one of the most interesting Gibson acoustics I have ever seen.

For example, a Vintage Sunburst Super Jumbo with the history of Gibson guitars depicted throughout the guitar. It has a virtual timeline inlayed into the fretboard from mandolins and banjos to Les Pauls and Flying Vs. Not only was it stunning to look at, but it sounded just as good. This is one of the unique museum pieces that the master luthiers in Bozeman Montana are now creating.

The Master Museum program was started in 1998.

Enjoy this video about the making of Gibson's Master Museum Acoustics:

May has arrived once again, which means the time has come for the Huber & Breese Music Anniversary sale. Guitarist Paul Huber and percussionist Terry Breese have supplied musical equipment to the Detroit area for 37 years now, and everyone looks forward to their annual party. It’s a day of music, food, and enthusiasm!

The big day came on Saturday May 9^th this year. All the major manufacturers sent representatives to help with the event, and Gibson gladly did its part.  Three Gibson employees arrived to make the day a success: the area sales rep Paul Van Name, product specialist Chris Larpenteur, and assistant plant manager Don Ruffatto from the acoustic division in Bozeman, Montana.

Several hundred people turned out to see the huge selection of instruments at incredible prices. The deals were the best of the year, and the day provided a unique opportunity to have questions answered by company experts. Plus, Paul Huber’s son Hans once again performed his miraculous work on the grill, another annual tradition that everyone eagerly anticipates.

A Songwriter Deluxe Standard, newly introduced to the Gibson line this year, received more attention than any other guitar. Everyone agreed that its compound radius finger board made playing a breeze, especially as you moved higher up the neck.

As things wrapped up at the end of the day, many great instruments had found their way to new homes. A J-45 Custom, anther model introduced earlier in the year, sold after only just arriving, along with other pieces from Gibson Montana, the Gibson Songmaker series, and Epiphone.

Once again, Paul Huber and Terry Breese threw a terrific event!

Feb. 28 brought Gibson Acoustic Day at Sam Ash on the north side of Nashville, Tenn. Don Ruffatto, from the Gibson Acoustic factory in Bozeman, Mont., and product specialist Ken McMahan both attended to help increase Gibson Montana’s profile and visibility at Sam Ash. The promotion was the suggestion of their acoustic specialist Kevin Anderson. He is a big supporter of Montana!

In the ultimate of ironies, severe weather was predicted that day to welcome Don to Nashville. Luckily the weather held out and the coast was clear for a good turnout!

Ken took charge the string change clinic, which also featured a Gibson Acoustic denim jacket giveaway, as we talked with customers about today’s Gibsons as well as our historic models. We saw a few great Gibson acoustics in the mix of guitars needing a restringing including a Dwight Yoakum Honky Tonk Deuce. Kevin sold a Songwriter Deluxe at the event as well as several Epiphone acoustics.

During the course of the day we were treated to a visit by John Bohlinger and his wife Megan Mullins who are both Gibson artists. John is primarily a guitarist best known as band leader from the Nashville Star television show and sideman to the stars. John has been a friend of ours for years so it was really a treat to have him drop by the event. He is also is from the state of Montana where his father was elected lieutenant governor in 2004. Megan Mullins is a recording artist in her own right as well as appearing as a featured instrumentalist on GAC’s Next GAC Star, PBS’s The Outlaw Trail and The Grand Ole Opry. They gathered in the acoustic room for an impromptu performance (see photo below). Also visiting the event was Kevin Haynie, guitarist for country artist Josh Turner.

Over 200 consumers registered for a Gibson Acoustic denim jacket giveaway. General manager Clay Rigdon presented the prize to the winner at a later date.

Eric Johnson, Johnny A., Jeff “Skunk” Baxter, Rick Derringer, Tom Murphy and many others treated large crowds to jamming throughout the day and late into the evening.

This show provides a great window into both the past and future of guitars, with vintage guitars of all makes and models displayed by dealers from all over the world, and new guitars and accessories shown by manufacturers and distributors.

The Gibson Acoustic and Custom Shop trailers saw a steady stream of people playing guitars, asking questions about new product, and just absorbing the atmosphere. Recently introduced 2009 models on display in the Acoustic trailer, including The Kristofferson SJ, SJ-200 Studio and Standard, the Songwriter Deluxe Standard, and limited run pieces kept the crowds coming back for another chance to play and enjoy the guitars. Experts were also on hand from the Montana and Custom Shop divisions to answer questions and help explain the intricacies of the Gibson lines.

The show was a huge success, and promoter Jimmy Wallace is already making plans for next years event.

April 9-11 brought Spring Gibson Days to Fuller’s Vintage Guitars in Houston. The event was a huge success, with special sales, clinics and performances throughout the three days.

Thursday evening kicked off the weekend with an after hours invitation-only sale. Guests arrived to take in a large selection of Ren Ferguson Museum Masterpieces and other limited run and custom guitars in Fuller’s inventory. Music filled the room as customers and employees played and sang their way through the night.

New 2009 models were the hit of the weekend, with the Songwriter Deluxe Standard, the J-45 Custom, and the new Super Dove attracting the most attention. Players were fascinated with the playability of the Songwriter’s new compound radius fingerboard, and the accurate acoustic reproduction that the Fishman Aura Ellipse pick up system provides impressed all who heard it.

Both the Acoustic and Electric Custom Shop trailers, along with one of the Gibson tour buses, were in the parking lot for the weekend, and they were filled with people playing the selection of guitars displayed. Carl Tosten, from Seattle, Wash., performed his unique style of acoustic wizardry on the stage in one of the acoustic rooms to an enthralled crowd both Friday and Saturday.

Texas legend Ray Wilie Hubbard, most famous for writing the Jerry Jeff Walker hit “Up Against The Wall, Redneck Mother” and many others, made an appearance. To the delight of the full house on Saturday, he performed several sets of music and storytelling, explaining his theories on song crafting and amusing everyone with anecdotes from his many years in the music industry.

The event was a huge success, and a great way to kick off the summer.

April 9, 2009

Frank Hannon, Dave Rude, and Frank's guitar technician, Robbie Furiosi, from the rock group Tesla, stopped by our plant while on tour promoting their hit cd "Forever More."  Having fallen in love with Frank's J50, Dave had to have one of his very own, and we were very happy to oblige him!


Robbie, Dave, & Frank in the Binding Department...

While they were here, I gave them a detail tour of the shop.  They were fascinated by the hand craftsmanship that each guitar receives in our facility.  Robbie picked my brain throughout the tour learning as much as he could about the inner workings of the Gibson acoustic guitar.  They were blown away as our own Valerie Bolitho showed them photos of various custom shop guitars that Ren Ferguson has created. 

Later that evening during dinner, we were entertained by their tales of life on and off the open road.  It was a distinct pleasure being able to wine and dine with the iconic band Tesla, and I was duly impressed by their casual demeanor and their down-to-earth charm.
 

Frank & Dave in Neckfit....


Frank, Robbie, and Dave in the Lacquer Booth....

I'll end this by saying that Dave's new J50 sounded fantastic on stage and that Tesla literally rocked the house on Friday night in Billings, MT.  Our doors are always open to you, Tesla, and we can't wait 'till we see you again!

Jason Jones, Gibson Acoustic luthier

Last week we took a look at the building of the famous Gibson Acoustic Mustache™ Bridge. As mentioned in the first installment, this week we are going to walk through the location and attachment of the bridge to the guitar top itself. The precise placement of the bridge to the soundboard of the instrument is critical for accuracy in both string alignment and intonation.

Below we see one of Gibson Acoustics Master-builders carefully locating the bridge to the top of a SJ200 True Vintage. The bridge is aligned to the fret board of the instrument and perfectly centered with the instruments premium Adirondack Red Spruce top.

Once the bridge has been located and pinned into place our Gibson Master-builder will very carefully, and with an enormous degree of accuracy cut the finish with a fine blade and remove the exact “footprint” of the bridge from the guitar tops finish (a very exact skill requiring a steady hand and plenty of practice). This allows for a wood to wood joint, for a pure and powerful transfer of energy from the bridge to the top – no bolts, and no screws, as we see below.

Once the “footprint” for the bridge has been made it is time to apply the glue and clamp the bridge to the guitar top. Below we see our Master-builder applying just the right amount of glue to the underside of the bridge. Then the bridge is secured to the guitar top with a specially engineered tool that equalizes the clamping pressure across the span of the bridge.

The bridge will remain in the clamp for a minimum of 2 hours before the pressure is released resulting in a solid, uncompromised joint that will withstand the string tension placed upon the bridge for the life of the guitar.

As you have seen, the processes involved with the creation and attachment of the Gibson Moustache™ Bridge, are rooted in craftsmanship, and uncompromising attention to detail, as so many of the processes used by the Master-builders in Gibson’s Acoustic factory are. You will see more of the Gibson Acoustic Master-builders at work in the near future.

This is part one of a two part series of the iconic Gibson Moustache™ bridge, from a builder's view. The Gibson Moustache Bridge has for decades been a key and distinctive element to Gibson’s Acoustic Flagship model, the SJ-200. For part one we will focus on the crafting of the Moustache™ Bridge itself.  

In the picture below, Master-builder Jim Davies inserts the finest Mother Of Pearl inlays into the carved Madagascar Rosewood blank. The blank is hand selected, aged and seasoned to provide a lifetime of use.



After carefully securing the inlays in place, Jim will begin the high detailed sanding process as we see in the pictures below.

    
After Jim meticulously sands the bridge to a smooth, high detail finish he will move the bridge on to the buffing process, this is where the striking characteristics of the Madagascar Rosewood and Mother of Pearl will shine through.


And in the picture below, the finished product. 



Next week, for The Gibson Moustache™ Bridge Part Two, we will look at the placement of the bridge to the guitar top itself.

From the creative minds that brought you one of our most popular models ever, the Songwriter Deluxe, this week I bring you the Songwriter Deluxe Studio EC ("EC" stands for "Electric Cutaway").  Made with the same high quality woods and standards that you come to expect from the Gibson Acoustic facility in beautiful Bozeman, Montana, the SW Dlx. Studio EC boasts an impressive body made out of premium Indian rosewood coupled with an AAA Sitka spruce top.  The neck is constructed from Honduras mahogany with a coal black ebony fret board and bridge. 

The inlay package is equally as gorgeous without being gaudy with its Mother-of-pearl fret board parallelograms (like the Hummingbird), its Mother-of-pearl logo and crown inlay in the head stock, wrapping it up nicely with an abalone rosette ring.  The thin, single white, binding around the fret board accents the look completely.  Add all this with an on-board electronics package (a Fishman Prefix-T) so you can adjust your sounds without having to change your settings on your amplifier. 

Oh, and did I mention it is a CUTAWAY?  Now those notes you couldn't reach before, without having to manipulate your fretting hand in a weird position, are easily accessible. Also, don't forget, it is still a Songwriter Deluxe, no matter how you slice it, so you still have the sturdy square shoulder dreadnought with the Gibson x-braced top all hand crafted by our talented luthiers in Montana.  

So if you are a little bit country and a little bit rock n' roll, please don't hesitate to experience that feeling that only a Gibson can provide, and pick up a Songwriter Deluxe Studio EC at your nearest authorized Gibson Acoustic dealer or online at one of our authorized web-dealers.  

Jason Jones, Gibson Acoustic luthier

Jeff Jewett and Chris Chappel binding SW DLX STUDIO EC BODIES

Today Aaron Lewis, (lead singer, songwriter, & guitarist of the popular rock group, Staind), paid Gibson Acoustic, here in beautiful Bozeman, Mont., a visit.  A huge vintage Gibson acoustic fan, Aaron was relieved to finally make it up here to tour the plant and to meet with Master Luthier Ren Ferguson, Robi Johns, and GM Doug Koffinke to discuss a possible signature guitar run based on a reproduction vintage J45 that we had built for him. 

I had a chance to give him a personalized tour and to talk with him for a while.  An extremely talented acoustic player, Aaron was intensely interested in the construction process of a Gibson acoustic guitar.  Thoughout the tour, we discussed a variety of topics, from archery hunting to a solo side project he is working on to his vast array of vintage Gibsons (both acoustic and electric) that he has collected over the years. 

Aaron also showed a sincere appreciation for his fans by posing for several photos and signing a number of autographs much to the delight of the plant's employees.  It was a pleasure to meet this highly talented, down-to-earth, man, and we at Gibson Acoustic will always have an open door whenever Aaron Lewis wishes to visit us again. 

Until then, here are some photos of his visit.  Enjoy. 

Jason Jones, Gibson Acoustic luthier

Nothing screams "vintage" more than our SJ-200 Western Classic. With its 3 piece Indian rosewood back and sides, its 2 piece figured maple neck, and premium AAA Sitka spruce top, one strum across the strings will send you back in time to the days of Ray Whitley and Gene Autrey in their black and white splendor.  This particular model receives our special tri-burst finish on its top, giving it just that little extra pow over an average vintage sunburst finish.  The look is finished off with a multi-bound, high grade ebony fret board (with exquisite Mother-of-Pearl crown inlays) and matching ebony moustache bridge (with its vintage "4-bar/2-dot" Mother-of-Pearl inlays). 

The looks of this beauty will draw you in, however, it is the sound that will keep you playing.  The Western Classic has all the boom you expect from the SJ-200 size and the added twang you get from the Indian rosewood is a special treat you will not find on most models.  The smooth playability of the "fret over binding" fret board in combination with the gold Waverly tuners will make this one hard guitar to put down. 

So what are you waiting for?  Grab your Stetson, snug up your bolo tie, and trot on down to your local Gibson Acoustic retailer or search online from one of our authorized Gibson Acoustic dealer websites and get one in your hands today.

Jason Jones, Gibson Acoustic luthier

Chuck Knecht spraying lacquer on an SJ-200

The Hummingbird Custom Koa! This gem of a guitar was designed by our master luthier, Ren Ferguson, and is now one of our most popular custom production models, and for good reason.

Made out of Hawaiian grown Koa, the body of the Hummingbird Custom Koa has a very exotic beauty about it.  Along with the AAA Sitka spruce top and the Abalone purfling and rosette, the body is striking to all who see it.  The large faux tortoise shell pick guard enhances the beauty even more so with its Mother-of-Pearl hummingbird inlays, each meticulously hand engraved.  The Honduras mahogany neck has a bound ebony fret board with Abalone "orpheum" inlays.  The ebony bridge with the hand engraved Mother-of-Pearl hummingbird inlays finishes this work of art, giving you a uniquely original and stunning guitar.

Of course the Hummingbird Custom Koa boasts not only killer looks, but killer tone as well.  You may want to frame this classic beauty and hang it on a wall, but your ears will beg you not to!

Check out the Hummingbird Custom Koa and many other model selections at your local authorized Gibson Acoustic dealer or on-line at one of our fine retail associates.

Sue Ehret inspecting her work on a H.C.K. pick guard.




On a sadder note, many of you have possibly heard of the explosion last week in our fair city of Bozeman, MT, that took with it several buildings in our historic downtown district.  Luckily, Gibson Acoustic is located on the opposite end of the town, so we were left completely unharmed.  At first, what was surprisingly thought of a casualty-free incident, turned out Sunday to be the contrary as a body was found in the rubble.  All of us at Gibson Acoustic give our heart-felt condolences to the victim's family and friends. 

Jason Jones, Gibson Acoustic luthier

For this week's blog, I've chosen one of my favorite models, the J-45 Standard.  Introduced in 1942, this simple, non-ornate, slope shouldered dreadnought has captured the hearts of musicians all over the globe.  This 2009 version has many of the same original specifications.  Premium Sitka spruce makes up the top as well as the hidden top and back braces.  Honduras mahogany is used to construct the sides and back of the body as well as the neck.  High quality Indian rosewood is used to create the bridge and the fret board.  In accordance to its simple motif, Mother-of-pearl dots flow down the fret board and a plain, tear-drop shaped pick guard protects the top.  This year we did modify the guitar by installing electronics in it for the added benefit of playing through your favorite amplifier.

But don't let the lack of flowery engravings or exotic inlay patterns fool you, this is definitely a stick of dynamite wrapped in a plain brown wrapper.  Nicknamed the "Workhorse" many years ago, this model is famous for its amazing tone and volume, generating many of the classics and future classics you listen to everyday.  From rock and roll to bluegrass, artists spanning numerous generations has put this fine instrument through its paces, and the J-45 simply keeps shining. 

This, and many more classic Gibson Acoustic models are available at your local Gibson Acoustic dealer, or online at our many Gibson Acoustic authorized websites.  Check one out today and experience what the "Workhorse" has to offer.

Jason Jones, luthier for Gibson Acoustic

Levi Main preparing a J45 body for binding

I promised an update on the CL Fox by Valerie Bolitho a couple of weeks ago, and here it is!  Completed, and ready for shipping, this Custom Line guitar sounded so magnificent with its crisp highs and full body lows, that it was hard to get it out of our Master Inspector's (Josh Dierman's) hands.  Now with its custom ebony bridge and faux tortoise shell pick guard in place, this guitar truly stands out as a fabulous piece of art.  View these images and decide for yourself.

Gibson Acoustic in beautiful Bozeman, Montana has the facility and the talent to create any masterpiece that you can conceive.  If you wish to make your dream guitar become a reality, please contact your local authorized Gibson Acoustic dealer and let us fulfill that dream for you.

Jason Jones, luthier for Gibson Acoustic 

Brad Schmidt setting up the CL Fox & Josh Dierman final inspecting it

This week I like to spotlight the J-200, perhaps the most recognizable acoustic guitar in the world today.  Although its roots are firmly implanted in the country/western music genre, it has traveled through many different music styles from a wide range of different eras. Played by thousands of musicians from Gene Autry, to Emmylou Harris, to Pete Townsend, the J-200 Standard hasn't only stood the test of time, it has flourished like no other acoustic guitar in the history of mankind.

The J-200's origins started officially in the year 1937, when the legendary singing cowboy, Ray Whitley, wanted a deeper sounding guitar and one that screamed "fancy." Guy Hart, along with the design team at Gibson Guitars at the time, created not only a fancy flat-top, but THE fancy flat-top. With its distinctive moustache bridge, it's large, ornate faux tortoise shell pick guard, and its crown fret board inlays, this guitar is as noticeable today as it was revolutionary in 1938, when the first production SJ-200's hit the buying public. 

Today's version of that historic model carries with it most of the same attributes as the original '38 model.  The modern day J-200 Standard utilizes our AAA grade Sitka spruce top with its hand scalloped x-brace bracing pattern, our premium Indian rosewood for the fret board and bridge, and our gorgeous figured maple for the neck, sides, and back.  The use of authentic mother-of-pearl inlays on the guitar as well as the inlaid pick guard with its flowers and vines motif brings you back to a time when a cowboy only needed his faithful horse by his side, his shiny six-shooter in his holster, and his beloved guitar in his arms serenading his sweetheart at the end of the day.

Go to your local authorized Gibson acoustic guitar dealer and try one on for size. If the attention to detail and the unique stylings of the J-200 Standard doesn't grab you automatically, then the booming sound that can only come from a guitar of this magnitude will definitely do the trick. Your eyes and your ears will appreciate it.

Jason Jones, luthier for Gibson Acoustics

This is Dennis Notarius buffing a J-200 this morning.


 

For this week's blog, I've decided to bring you into our world and show you a custom Art Shop original being created.  Valerie Bolitho is the luthier responsible for this piece of art, the CL Fox made from very selected Indian Rosewood.  The CL (or Custom Line) is known for it smaller size and ease of playability.  Its 4.5" body depth gives the CL a beautiful, clear tone.  The specially selected Indian rosewood gives it just the right amount of brightness that makes this the perfect guitar for small gatherings, recording work, or to simply lose yourself with your guitar in solitude.  The rosewood, in this case, was hand selected by Ren Ferguson, (master luthier and designer), during one of his global wood expeditions.   The figure, color, and sheer uniqueness of this selected rosewood is purely breath-taking.  

The CL also has a premium Sitka spruce top selected by Valerie for its sound qualities as well as its tight, straight grain configuration and its clean, flawless appearance.  She then enhanced the appearance even further with her choice of colored binding packages on the top and back of the body and her multicolored marquetry rosette selection, which she is known for on many of her creations. 

The headstock veneer is adorned with a beautiful fox, created out of multiple pieces of varying colored Mother-of-Pearl shell and the fretboard continues the theme with inlaid fox paw prints from the nut all the way down to the rosette. 

This is truly a one-of-a-kind work of art, but as we stress here in Bozeman, it is a completely functional and exquisite sounding guitar as well.  I will do an update of the guitar when it is completed and ready to ship to its excited owner.

If you have an itch for something unique, gorgeous, and with the sound and overall quality that only a Gibson can provide, please go to your local Gibson Acoustic dealership or to any one of the fine on-line stores specializing in Gibson Acoustics and see what our Art Shop can do for you.  Your personalized masterpiece may only be a phone call away.  In the meantime, please enjoy these photos.

Jason Jones, luthier at Gibson Acoustics

After returning from a really good NAMM show, in warm SoCal, back to Montana, I realized that there was so much good stuff we often over look some of the classics. The Gibson Acoustic Jumbo line is nothing short of legendary.  This goes all the way back to the singing cowboys of the '30s to the cosmic cowboy's of the '60s - from Gene Autry to Gram Parsons to Emmylou Harris to the Rolling Stones - Gibson's Jumbos have been at the heart of music since they debuted in the '30s.

The NAMM show reminded me of this as Kris Kristofferson visited the booth to support the fantastic Southern Jumbo we now offer with his name on it.  Kris is a true american icon and he was also a great gentleman. He played several songs to a large and very appreciative audience and was gracious with pictures and autographs. But most of all, that Gibson Southern Jumbo reminded me of the great history and legends who are the heart and soul of the business.

 

Everything that you've come to expect from a Songwriter Deluxe is still there, from the distinctive style of the body to the hand picked Indian rosewood sides and back (and let's not forget that ever-popular sound and playability), but now we've brought it into the 21st century.  The thing I noticed when I first laid eyes on the new Songwriter Deluxe Standard was the completely original and stylish fret board inlays designed by our creative services team which were patterned after the popular Advance Jumbo "arrows and diamond" inlay pattern.  Made out of authentic Mother-of-pearl shell, the classic meets the future with this one-of-a-kind design.  Next I noticed the flamed maple binding adorning not only the body, but the fret board and the head stock as well.  The contrast of the white flamed maple next to the dark hues of the Indian rosewood gives it a luxurious look that use to be reserved only for the higher priced custom "one-of-a-kind" guitars.  It takes a considerable amount of time and patience to apply wood binding, but it is definitely well worth it.  Add to this the newly designed ebony bridge (a sleeker, more modern approach to the Songwriter's original bridge), the classy abalone rosette, and the multi-colored strip of marquetry running down the center of the back of the guitar, and you have a guitar that will turn heads. 

Playability has not be ignore, however, as we have introduced, for the first time, our new compound radius fret board.  Now you have the ease of playing your favorite electric guitar neck with the dynamic tone of the Songwriter Deluxe.  Want the entire neighborhood to hear you?  The on-board electronics allows you to plug it in to your favorite amp and dial it to 11. 

The Indian rosewood and body shape still offers the well-balanced tones that made the Songwriter series popular in the first place.  The warm, deep lows and the bright treble tones are now enhanced by the hand scalloped braced top made out of our finest Sitka spruce.  

All this, and much more, makes this a juggernaut among the classics.  Find a Songwriter Deluxe Standard at your local Gibson Acoustic guitar dealer and see if you don't agree with us that this guitar is "sexy-cool". 

Everything that you've come to expect from a Songwriter Deluxe is still there, from the distinctive style of the body to the hand picked Indian rosewood sides and back (and let's not forget that ever-popular sound and playability), but now we've brought it into the 21st century. 

The thing I noticed when I first laid eyes on the new Songwriter Deluxe Standard was the completely original and stylish fret board inlays designed by our creative services team which were patterned after the popular Advance Jumbo "arrows and diamond" inlay pattern.  Made out of authentic Mother-of-pearl shell, the classic meets the future with this one-of-a-kind design.  Next I noticed the flamed maple binding adorning not only the body, but the fret board and the head stock as well.  The contrast of the white flamed maple next to the dark hues of the Indian rosewood gives it a luxurious look that use to be reserved only for the higher priced custom "one-of-a-kind" guitars.  It takes a considerable amount of time and patience to apply wood binding, but it is definitely well worth it.  Add to this the newly designed ebony bridge (a sleeker, more modern approach to the Songwriter's original bridge), the classy abalone rosette, and the multi-colored strip of marquetry running down the center of the back of the guitar, and you have a guitar that will turn heads. 

Playability has not be ignore, however, as we have introduced, for the first time, our new compound radius fret board.  Now you have the ease of playing your favorite electric guitar neck with the dynamic tone of the Songwriter Deluxe.  Want the entire neighborhood to hear you?  The on-board electronics allows you to plug it in to your favorite amp and dial it to 11. 

The Indian rosewood and body shape still offers the well-balanced tones that made the Songwriter series popular in the first place.  The warm, deep lows and the bright treble tones are now enhanced by the hand scalloped braced top made out of our finest Sitka spruce.  

All this, and much more, makes this a juggernaut among the classics.  Find a Songwriter Deluxe Standard at your local Gibson Acoustic guitar dealer and see if you don't agree with us that this guitar is "sexy-cool". 

 

Gibson Acoustic proudly has recreated of one of the most important acoustic guitars, from one of the most original artists to emerge from the punk and new wave scene of the late ’70s and early ’80s: The Elvis Costello Century of Progress acoustic — the first artist guitar in Gibson Acoustic’s new Songwriter Series.

The new Elvis Costello Century of Progress acoustic is fashioned after Costello’s beloved 1936 model, which was left in pieces following a bizarre flood at the Dublin storage facility where he kept his instruments. The new model is a painstaking recreation of Costello’s favorite acoustic, used to record and perform many of the songs that made him the iconic musician that he is.

Culling information from photos of Costello’s treasured instrument and the original blueprints from the 1930s, Gibson Acoustic’s team of master luthiers were able to successfully reproduce every attribute of Costello’s prized acoustic. The result is an amazing recreation of a legendary instrument, with flawless accuracy and immaculate attention to detail.

“It’s a marvelous piece of work,” Costello told Gibson. “The prototype was just remarkable. In every respect, the tone is exactly as I would expect it to be if I were to pick up my original Century of Progress.”

No feature was overlooked in the creation of the Elvis Costello Century of Progress acoustic. From the figured Hard Rock Eastern maple used for the back and sides to the Adirondack spruce used for the top and bracing, including vintage-style glue used to put it all together. The new Elvis Costello Century of Progress acoustic also offers a distinct peghead veneer and pearloid fingerboard, adorned by diamond inlays within Madagascar rosewood rectangle fingerboard markers. The neck is crafted from one solid piece of Honduras mahogany, and hand-sanded to form a pronounced “V” profile.

The new Elvis Costello Century of Progress from Gibson Acoustic will be released in a very limited run of only 300 instruments, numbered from 001 to 300, with an exclusive black hard-shell case adorned with a special Elvis Costello/Gibson stamped commemorative plaque and certificate of authenticity. Each guitar’s label will also be personally autographed by Costello.

Lots of inquires are being made about the new line-up for Gibson Acoustic this year. We’ve received numerous calls already, asking where they can see the new line-up and some of the improvements made to the existing Gibson line-up.
 

The new, improved Gibson Acoustic Web site already has these great new guitars shown with detailed information on each guitar.
 
Additionally, these guitars should be hitting the dealer’s showroom the first week of February.  

Many dealers have already started to order the new lineup and share in the excitement of the new guitars.

Kris Kristofferson will be visiting the Gibson booth at NAMM in Anaheim, Calif., on Thursday afternoon, Jan. 15. He will be present from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm.
 

Kris will be there to promote “the Kristofferson,” an accurately detailed recreation of his beloved Southern Jumbo acoustic. Kris is a true icon and will be available for photo opportunities during his visit to the Gibson booth. Don’t miss a great opportunity to meet a true legend and American icon.

Happy Holidays from Gibson Acoustic! 2009 promises to be an exciting year and you can expect to see some great new changes to the acoustic lineup this year. Look for new guitars and some improvements to some of the current line up to hit the dealers in February. Classic Gibson acoustics, like the True Vintage line up, will capitalize on proven upgrades. Other top lines will see exciting new line extensions – look for the new Songwriter Deluxe Standard and Songwriter Deluxe Custom to join the Songwriter line up. Comments from those fans that have seen the prototypes has been outstanding and these new guitars are sure to be instant fan favorites.

Gibson Acoustic proudly presents “The Kristofferson” – an accurately detailed recreation of Kris Kristofferson’s beloved Southern Jumbo acoustic, and a tribute to his legendary songwriting skills and genuine love of Gibson acoustics. This limited production run features vintage appointments, blending the classic details of his original Southern Jumbo with several modern features, including the new Fishman Matrix Infinity – an under saddle pick up system with endpin mounted preamp and sound hole mounted controls. An aged Vintage Sunburst finish gives it a beautiful, yet understated look that faithfully captures the distinct feel of the original. Kris’ long time support for the United Farm Workers is also fully acknowledged through the genuine mother of pearl UFW logo on the 12th fret, and a donation in Gibson’s name for every guitar sold. His autograph is notably featured on each Songwriter series label, and each guitar comes with a certificate of authenticity and an exclusive hard shell case designed specifically for this special issue. Play The Kristofferson and experience a fitting tribute to a modern legend, and the rich history of Gibson Acoustics.