When it comes to guitars, there are some brands that have become household names among rock legends. Brands like Fender, Gibson, and Paul Reed Smith have been iconic in the music world for years. However, there are some other brands that are often overlooked, despite their excellent quality and sound. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most underrated guitar brands that have been favored by rock legends.
Ibanez
Although many people associate Ibanez with heavy metal, it is actually an extremely versatile guitar brand that has been utilized by musicians from all genres of music. The company was founded in Japan in the 1920s, and since then has become a leader in guitar manufacturing. Ibanez guitars are known for their sleek and modern designs that offer tremendous playability and sound.
One of the most iconic rock legends who played Ibanez guitars is Steve Vai. Vai is a virtuoso guitarist who has played with some of the most famous musicians in the world. He has been playing Ibanez guitars since the early 1980s, and his signature guitar model is one of the most popular Ibanez guitars on the market. Other famous musicians who have played Ibanez guitars include Joe Satriani, John Petrucci, and Paul Gilbert.
Gretsch
Founded in 1883, Gretsch is one of the oldest guitar manufacturers in the world. The company has a long history of producing high-quality instruments that have been favored by rock legends. Gretsch guitars are famous for their hollow body design that produces a unique and warm tone favored by many guitarists.
One of the most famous guitarists who played Gretsch guitars was George Harrison. Harrison played a Gretsch Country Gentleman during his time with the Beatles, and the guitar has since become iconic in the music world. Other famous musicians who have played Gretsch guitars include Chet Atkins, Brian Setzer, and Eddie Cochran.
Rickenbacker
Rickenbacker is a guitar brand that has been around since 1931. The company is known for producing guitars that have a unique sound that can be easily distinguished from other brands. Rickenbacker guitars are often used in classic rock and alternative music, and have become a favorite among rock legends.
One of the most famous guitarists who played Rickenbacker guitars was Tom Petty. Petty played a Rickenbacker 360 during his time with the Heartbreakers and it became one of his signature guitars. Other famous musicians who have played Rickenbacker guitars include Roger McGuinn, Peter Buck, and John Lennon.
PRS
Paul Reed Smith (PRS) guitars were first introduced in the 1980s, and since then have become a favorite among many guitarists, including rock legends. PRS guitars are known for their high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, resulting in guitars that sound and look exceptional.
One of the most famous guitarists who played PRS guitars was Carlos Santana. Santana played a PRS guitar during his legendary performance at Woodstock in 1969, and the guitar has since become iconic in the music world. Other famous musicians who have played PRS guitars include Mark Tremonti, Dave Navarro, and Adam Jones.
Epiphone
Founded in 1873, Epiphone is one of the oldest and most respected guitar brands in the world. The company is known for producing high-quality instruments that are affordable for musicians of all skill levels. Although Epiphone guitars are often associated with Gibson, they are a separate brand that produces their own unique sounds and designs.
One of the most famous guitarists who played Epiphone guitars was John Lennon. Lennon played an Epiphone Casino during his time with the Beatles, and the guitar has since become iconic in the music world. Other famous musicians who have played Epiphone guitars include Noel Gallagher, Paul Weller, and Rick Nielsen.
Conclusion
Although there are many guitar brands that have become iconic in the music world, there are also many brands that are underrated, but favored by some of the most famous musicians in the world. Brands like Ibanez, Gretsch, Rickenbacker, PRS, and Epiphone may not be as well known as Fender or Gibson, but they offer unique designs and sounds that have become beloved by rock legends. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, these underrated guitar brands are definitely worth considering for your next instrument purchase.
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