Business Wars Gibson vs Fender - Les and Leo | 1
Jun 19, 2019
In the 1940s, the electric guitar market faced design flaws until innovators began rethinking the instrument. Guitarist Les Paul pitches his revolutionary solid-body design to Gibson but gets rejected, setting the stage for a fierce rivalry. Enter Leo Fender, who is inspired by Paul's ideas and goes on to revolutionize guitar design. This competition not only defines iconic sound characteristics but also stirs deep emotional connections for music lovers. The clash between Gibson and Fender sparks an electrifying evolution in the music world.
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Gibson Rejects Les Paul's "Log"
- In 1942, Les Paul presented his "Log" guitar prototype to Gibson executives.
- They rejected it, mocking its broomstick-like appearance.
Les Paul's Feedback Theory
- Les Paul theorized that hollow guitar bodies caused feedback.
- He designed the solid-body "Log" to eliminate this issue, resulting in a clearer tone.
Gibson's History
- Gibson, founded in the 1890s by Orville Gibson, initially focused on mandolins.
- They transitioned to electric guitars in 1937 with the ES-150, popular among jazz musicians.