"From a technical standpoint, it was a genius invention because it's absolutely practical -- it moulds into the body perfectly. As soon as you hold one, it embraces you," said Smith, an acclaimed jazz recording artist. You don’t mess with an icon. Who can forget the singular sound of the Everly Brothers' guitar in 'Wake Up Little Susie' and 'By By Love'? It was the sound of a Gibson flat top, one of the finest acoustic guitars ever produced. Invented by a California radio repairman, the "Strat" became an instant staple for rock 'n' roll musicians, starting with Holly, and won iconic status when Hendrix vaunted his on stage as he famously performed The Star Spangled Banner at the 1969 Woodstock concert. For the Gibson lovers, I'd consider a '54 to '56 Les Paul Gold Top (I think you might be lucky to pick up a '57) or a Custom. If you have $5,000 or $6,000 left, then a good Fender Tweed Bassman or Twin would fit the bill nicely. A catholic choice, I know, but these guitars have consistently been in demand, and I see no change to this in the near or far-off future. No one changed the sound of guitar music more than Leo Fender. The Martin Book chronicles the history of an instrument that mirrors the development of the acoustic guitar and acoustic music in America. Guitar Shop Ipswich.
