Introduction
Guitars and music have always been an integral part of our culture. The guitar is one of the most popular and versatile instruments in the world, and one of the most iconic is the Gibson Flying V. Introduced in 1958, the Flying V is instantly recognizable with its unique, futuristic design. However, what many people don’t know is that the name “Flying V” was inspired by a mythical creature. In this blog post, we will explore the creature behind the name of this iconic guitar.
The Griffin
The creature that inspired the name of the Flying V is the Griffin. The Griffin is a mythical creature that is part lion and part eagle. It has the body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle. The Griffin has been a popular symbol in many cultures throughout history. In ancient Greece, it was considered a protector of treasure and a guardian of the divine. In medieval Europe, it was often depicted as a symbol of courage and strength.
The Origins of the Flying V
The Flying V was introduced in 1958 as part of Gibson’s Modernistic series of guitars. The Modernistic series was designed to be futuristic and edgy, and the Flying V fit that bill perfectly. The guitar was designed by Gibson employee Ted McCarty and was intended to be a radical departure from the traditional guitar designs of the time.
The Flying V’s Design
The design of the Flying V was inspired by the body of the Griffin. The guitar’s body is in the shape of the Griffin’s body, with the wings of the bird extending out from the sides of the guitar. The angular shape of the guitar was intended to be visually striking and to reflect the modernistic design aesthetic.
The Flying V’s Popularity
The Flying V was not an instant success when it was first introduced in 1958. In fact, it was initially met with skepticism and criticism. However, over time, the guitar started to gain in popularity, particularly among rock guitarists. The guitar’s unique design and distinctive sound made it a favorite among guitarists looking for something that would stand out from the crowd and help them to make a statement.
The Flying V Today
Today, the Flying V is considered one of the most iconic guitars of all time. It has been used by some of the greatest guitarists in rock history, including Jimi Hendrix, Albert King, and Dave Davies of The Kinks. The guitar’s distinctive design and sound have helped to make it a favorite among guitarists looking to make a bold statement with their playing.
Conclusion
The Gibson Flying V is one of the most iconic guitars of all time, and its name is inspired by a mythical creature, the Griffin. The guitar’s futuristic design and distinctive sound have helped to make it a favorite among guitarists looking to make a bold statement with their playing. Whether you’re a fan of rock music, guitar history, or mythological creatures, the Flying V is a guitar that is well worth exploring.
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