The SG Guitar Book: 50 Years of Gibson's Stylish Solid Guitar

The SG Guitar Book: A Comprehensive History of Gibson's Iconic Solid Guitar

For many vintage guitar enthusiasts, the idea that Gibson abandoned the Sunburst Les Paul in 1960 and subsequently introduced a completely new design, which we now know as the SG ("solid guitar"), seems inconceivable. However, at the time, this business decision made perfect sense. The Les Paul's sales were faltering, prompting Gibson to breathe new life into its solidbody electric guitar line.

The company described the result as an "ultra-thin, hand-contoured, double-cutaway body." This modernistic amalgam of bevels, points, and angles was a radical departure from the Les Paul's classic design. This new book, The SG Guitar Book, delves into the story of all the SG models that followed, including the Junior, Special, Standard, and Custom.

Readers will discover interviews with and stories about the key Gibson personnel involved over the years, as well as the many renowned musicians who have championed the SG, such as Pete Townshend, Frank Zappa, Eric Clapton, Angus Young, George Harrison, Gary Rossington, Tony Iommi, and Derek Trucks.

In the tradition of Tony Bacon's bestselling series of guitar books, The SG Guitar Book offers readers a comprehensive package that encompasses three essential elements: a collection of drool-worthy photographs showcasing the coolest SG guitars, a gripping narrative tracing the model's history from its earliest prototypes to its latest exploits, and a detailed collector's database documenting every production SG model ever made.

The book begins by exploring the circumstances that led to the SG's creation, delving into the business considerations that prompted Gibson to move away from the Les Paul and toward a new design. Readers will learn about the key features that set the SG apart, such as its distinctive double-cutaway body and the ways in which it differed from its predecessor.

As the narrative unfolds, the book introduces the various SG models that followed, each with its own unique characteristics and appeal. Readers will discover the stories behind the Junior, Special, Standard, and Custom variants, as well as the factors that influenced their development and evolution over time.

Interwoven throughout the text are the accounts of the legendary musicians who have embraced the SG and made it an integral part of their musical identities. From Pete Townshend's iconic use of the SG during The Who's performances to Frank Zappa's experimental explorations and Eric Clapton's enduring association with the instrument, the book sheds light on the SG's enduring popularity and its impact on the world of music.

Beyond the historical narrative, The SG Guitar Book offers readers a visually stunning experience. The collection of photographs showcases the sheer beauty and craftsmanship of these iconic guitars, inviting readers to appreciate the meticulous attention to detail that has defined the SG's design over the decades.

Finally, the book's comprehensive collector's database provides a valuable resource for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Detailing every production SG model ever made, this section offers a wealth of information, from specifications and production details to the unique features and variations that have emerged over time.

In conclusion, The SG Guitar Book is a must-read for any guitar enthusiast or collector who appreciates the rich history and enduring appeal of this iconic instrument. With its engaging storytelling, stunning visuals, and invaluable reference material, the book offers a comprehensive and captivating exploration of the SG's legacy, cementing its place as a true classic in the world of electric guitars.

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