Lecture on Iconic Electric Guitars

Introduction

• Hollow Body Electric Guitar: Marked a breakthrough in amplifying guitar sound.
• Guitar Pickup: Revolutionized music and the guitar industry.
• Most modern guitars are descendants of models from the 1950s.

Iconic Guitar Models of the 1950s

• 1950 Fender Telecaster:

  • First successful solid body electric guitar.
  • Originally called "Broadcaster".
  • Known for its simplicity: two single-coil pickups, three-way switch, volume, and tone control.
  • Famous for its "twang" sound from the bridge pickup.

• 1952 Gibson Les Paul:

  • Response to the Telecaster.
  • Features a single cut design, gold finish, and P90 pickups.
  • Evolved with upgrades like the Tune-O-Matic bridge and humbucker pickups.
  • Notable for its rich, full sound.

• 1953 Gretsch Duo Jet:

  • Competed with Les Paul.
  • Hollowed body made it lighter, unique sound.
  • Featuring Melita Synchro-Sonic Bridge.

• 1954 Fender Stratocaster:

  • Added third pickup for more tonal flexibility.
  • Comfortable contour body and new "tremolo" system.

Developments in the Late 1950s and Early 1960s

• 1958 Gibson ES-335:

  • Semi-hollow design reduced feedback.
  • Central solid block for sustain and brightness.

• 1958 Fender Jazzmaster:

  • Offset body for balance; initially aimed at jazz players.
  • Adopted by surf rock and later indie rock.

• 1962 Fender Jaguar:

  • Similar to Jazzmaster with new pickups, shorter scale length.

• 1958 Gibson Explorer and Flying V:

  • Radical designs that initially failed but gained popularity later.

The 1960s: The Rise of the Gibson SG

• 1961 Gibson SG:
  • Replaced the Les Paul with a lighter, more accessible design.
  • Known for its bright and open sound.

Evolution of Guitar Design in the 1980s

• Super Strat:
  • Response to new music genres like metal.
  • High output pickups, flatter fretboards, extended necks.
  • Iconic models include Ibanez JEM and RG series.

Modern Innovations

• PRS Guitars:

  • Founded in 1985, known for modern design and aesthetics.
  • Notable model: PRS Silver Sky inspired by vintage Strat design.

• Boutique Guitars:

  • Unique, custom designs often inspired by traditional models.
  • Examples include the Novo Serus T.

Conclusion

• Guitars are versatile across genres, often surpassing original design intentions.
• Encouragement to explore a variety of brands and models.

Additional Resources

• Intermediate guitar course "Next Level Playing" available at nextlevelplaying.com for further learning and skill development.