Paul Bigsby: Innovator of Electric Guitars

This chapter explores the life and innovations of Paul Bigsby, renowned for inventing the Bigsby tailpiece and impacting guitar design. It examines Bigsby's collaborations and competition with figures like Leo Fender, highlighting the crucial moment when country musician Merle Travis commissioned a guitar from him. The discussion also contrasts design philosophies between Bigsby and other iconic guitar makers, revealing the delicate balance between inspiration and imitation in the evolution of electric instruments.