Gibson Celebrates 50th Anniversary of the ES-335

The Gibson ES-335 was the world’s first commercial semi-hollowbody electric guitar, released by Gibson Guitar Corporation in 1958, and Gibson are celebrating the 50th anniversary of this landmark instrument with a bang.  The ES-355 was widely used by blues musician B. B. King, who has been featured in Gibson publicity for the model from the 1960s onwards. Many other guitarists have also used the model.  In celebration of the guitar’s rich history a special one-night performance and filming will take place at Cleveland’s Rock Hall.

On Monday, June 30th at 7pm, “Mr. ES-335” himself, Larry Carlton and a collection of other greats will pay homage to this important guitar classic. Larry will lead an all-star performance with his famous friends and musicians including John Pizzarelli, Gary Pucket, Joe Bonamassa, Dennis Coffey, Joel Hoffner and Matthew Shariff-Hobley. The event will be hosted by Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum Director of Curatorial Affairs, Howard Kramer.

Incidentally, we are currently reviewing a Gibson ES-335 copy from Sparrow Guitars, the Primitive.  Stay tune for that review!