Founding and Early Innovations
Orville Gibson began building archtop guitars in Kalamazoo, Michigan, in 1894, patenting carved-top construction that improved volume and tone. The company incorporated in 1902 and introduced the L-5 archtop in 1922, which became a jazz standard.
Electric Era and Iconic Models
Gibson launched the ES-150 in 1936, one of the first commercially successful electric guitars. Postwar, the 1952 Les Paul Model with its single-cutaway mahogany body and P-90 pickups evolved into the 1957 humbucker-equipped Standard. The 1961 SG introduced a lighter double-cut design favored for playability.
Modern Production and Artist Editions
Under Gibson Brands ownership since 2018, the company continues Custom Shop runs alongside USA and Memphis production lines. Signature models honor artists like Eric Clapton and Angus Young with specific neck profiles, wiring, and finishes.
