The Story Behind the Iconic Hollow Body Electric Guitars in Country Music

When it comes to country music, the right guitar can make all the difference. And for many legendary performers, nothing quite matched the sound and style of a hollow-body electric guitar. These iconic instruments have played a pivotal role in shaping the genre we know and love today. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into four of the most beloved hollow-body guitars in country music history: the Gibson ES-335, the Gretsch Country Gentleman, the Fender Telecaster Thinline, and the Epiphone Casino. From their distinctive sounds to the groundbreaking musicians who wielded them, we’ll explore what makes these guitars such an essential part of the country music legacy. So strap on your boots and grab your pick, as we embark on a journey through the past and present of these iconic instruments.

Gibson ES-335

The Gibson ES-335 is a guitar steeped in history that has made an undeniable impact on the world of country music. This semi-hollow body electric guitar has a distinctive look and sound that has been favored by genre legends for decades. From its inception in 1958, the ES-335 has been celebrated for its versatility and innovation, making it a go-to instrument for musicians across a wide range of genres. In this section, we will delve into the background of the Gibson ES-335, explore its impact on country music, and highlight some of the legendary performers who have used it. For more information on the best hollow body guitars for country music, check out our article on 10 Best Hollow Body Guitars For Country.

1. Background

When it comes to discussing the background of these iconic hollow body electric guitars in country music history, it’s important to consider the different elements that make each of them unique. Here’s a brief rundown of the background on each of the guitars:

As you can see, each of these guitars has a distinct background and set of features, making them unique options for musicians looking to achieve that classic country sound. Whether you prefer a fully hollow body like the Gretsch Country Gentleman or a semi-hollow design like the Gibson ES-335 or Fender Telecaster Thinline, there’s an iconic hollow body electric guitar out there that can help you achieve your desired sound.

2. How it Shaped Country Music

The Gibson ES-335 shaped the sound of country music by bringing a new level of versatility to the electric guitar. With its semi-hollow body design, the ES-335 combined the warm tone of a hollow body guitar with the sustain and feedback resistance of a solid-body guitar. This made it ideal for a variety of playing styles, from the twangy single-note lines of classic country to the bluesy bends and sustained notes of rock and roll-influenced country.

Its versatility made it a popular choice among country guitarists in the 60s and 70s, as they began to expand beyond traditional country sounds. They could achieve the classic country tones with its warm and mellow voice, but also played rock and roll, jazz, and even more experimental sounds as well.

Notably, its combination of versatility and quality made it a popular choice for session musicians in Nashville, who quickly brought its sound to the forefront of the country music scene. They used it to lay down the guitar tracks for countless hit songs by artists such as Patsy Cline and Elvis Presley, among others.

The ES-335’s design served for many other guitars created later that would become popular among country guitarists. The Gibson ES-345 and ES-355 were also popular among country musicians, as well as the Gretsch Country Gentleman and the Fender Telecaster Thinline in later years.

The Gibson ES-335 helped shape country music by expanding the range of what was musically possible for guitarists. Its versatility and quality made it a staple of country music, influencing countless musicians in the decades to come. To learn more about the role that hollow body electric guitars played in country music history, check out our article on hollow body electric guitars in country music.

3. Iconic Performers Who Used It

Iconic Performers Who Used These Guitars:

Some of these iconic performers helped popularize the use of hollow body electric guitars in country music. *Links indicate sources of more information.*

Gretsch Country Gentleman

When it comes to iconic hollow body electric guitars in country music, the Gretsch Country Gentleman is undoubtedly a noteworthy instrument. This guitar has a distinct appearance, with its classic walnut-stained finish, signature “F” holes, and gold-plated hardware. But it’s not just the looks that have made the Gretsch Country Gentleman stand out over the years. This guitar has played a significant role in shaping the sound of country music, with its unique tone and versatility. Let’s take a closer look at the background, impact, and notable performers who have used the Gretsch Country Gentleman over the years.

1. Background

When it comes to iconic hollow body guitars in country music history, it is impossible to ignore the impact of the Gibson ES-335. The ES-335 was first introduced by the Gibson Guitar Corporation in 1958 and was the world’s first commercial semi-hollow body electric guitar. It was specifically designed to bridge the gap between the solid body and hollow body electric guitar, providing players with the best of both worlds. The ES in its name stands for Electric Spanish, while the 335 represented its original $335 price tag.

The Design
The Gibson ES-335 model had a laminated maple body, which allowed for a warm and full tone, while still being able to isolate some of the feedback. It had a center block that ran through the middle of the guitar and separated the two hollow chambers on either side. The guitar had two humbucker pickups which gave it that classic, fat, and warm tone that players often associated with Gibson guitars.

The Popularity
The Gibson ES-335 was an instant success, and it quickly became one of Gibson’s best-selling guitars. Its versatility and unique design were embraced by guitarists of all genres, including jazz, blues, and rock ‘n’ roll. Country music was no exception. The ES-335 was praised for its ability to produce both clean and distorted tones, and this made it a perfect fit for country music. The ES-335’s enduring popularity status was only bolstered by its appearances in several notable country songs, which helped to cement its status as an icon in the world of country music.

The Legacy
Many of the world’s top country guitarists relied on the Gibson ES-335 to achieve their signature tones. From Chuck Berry’s famous “Johnny B. Goode” riff to B.B. King’s soulful blues, the ES-335 has left an indelible mark on music and continues to be a favorite among guitarists to this day. Its influence is something that can hardly be overstated, and its legacy is one that will continue for a long time to come.

2. How it Shaped Country Music

The Gibson ES-335 became one of the most influential guitars in country music due to its unique hybrid design. Its semi-hollow body combined the best of both worlds, offering the warmth and resonance of a hollow-body guitar with the sustain and punch of a solid-body electric guitar. This versatile combination allowed guitarists to achieve a significantly wider range of tones than ever before.

Warmth and Resonance: The ES-335’s rich, woody tone became a staple sound in many of the country ballads of the 60s and 70s. The guitar’s hollow space allowed for a greater depth of tone, with a natural reverb-like quality that gave notes a lingering quality.

Sustain and Punch: The solid-block center of the ES-335 provided a stable base for the bridge and pickups, lending strength and punch to the guitar’s sound. This combination works well for country songs that require a more percussive sound, such as uptempo numbers or chicken-picking guitar styles.

Increased Versatility: With both hollow- and solid-body elements, the ES-335 became an incredibly versatile tool for guitarists. Players could choose to plug into smaller amps for a clean, jazzy tone, or crank the gain up on bigger amps for a crunchier, more distorted sound. This flexibility made the ES-335 a sought-after guitar across numerous genres, but country music always appreciated the instrument’s tonal variety.

The Gibson ES-335’s combination of warmth, resonance, sustain, punch, and versatility made it a game-changer for country guitarists of the 60s and 70s. Its distinctive sound continues to influence modern-day musicians, and it rightfully deserves its place in the iconic pantheon of hollow-body guitars.

3. Iconic Performers Who Used It

The Gibson ES-335 is an iconic hollow body electric guitar that has been used by many legendary country music performers. Here are some of the most iconic performers who used it:

These are just a few of the many iconic performers who have used the Gibson ES-335 in their music. Its unique sound and versatility have made it a favorite among musicians of all genres, including country music. The ES-335 continues to be an influential guitar that has shaped the course of music history.

The Fender Telecaster Thinline

With its distinct sound and sleek design, the Fender Telecaster Thinline has solidified itself as an iconic instrument in country music history. This guitar’s unique construction paved the way for a new type of country sound, blending traditional twang with a touch of rock ‘n’ roll grit. In this section, we’ll delve into the background, influence, and notable players of this beloved instrument. So, grab your pick and let’s dive in.

1. Background

The background of each of these iconic hollow body electric guitars is rich in history and tradition.

• Gibson ES-335: This guitar was first introduced in 1958 by Gibson Guitar Corporation. It was notably the first electric guitar to feature a semi-hollow body design, which allowed for a less prone to feedback experience than solid body guitars.
• Gretsch Country Gentleman: This guitar was first introduced in the 1950s by the Gretsch Company. It was notably the first guitar made specifically for the country music genre with a hollow body and a Bigsby vibrato tailpiece making every note reverberate with style.
• The Fender Telecaster Thinline: Originally introduced in the late 60s, this guitar took the industry by storm with its unique design: a semi-hollow body, paired with Fender’s Telecaster shape.
• The Epiphone Casino: First introduced in the early 1960s by Epiphone, these guitars quickly became a favorite of many musicians, including a certain band from Liverpool- the Beatles. The guitar features a thin body, making it lightweight and easy to move while playing.

Knowing the background of each guitar is crucial in understanding how it has shaped the country music genre, and how it became favored by many iconic performers.

2. How it Shaped Country Music

The Gibson ES-335 is a guitar that has had a significant impact on country music. There are a few key ways in which it has shaped the genre:

• Versatility: One of the main reasons the ES-335 has been so influential in country music is its versatility. It can be used for a variety of playing styles and tones, from smooth jazz sounds to hard-hitting rockabilly riffs. This versatility made it a popular choice for country guitarists who wanted a guitar that could keep up with their diverse musical tastes.
• Sustain: The semi-hollow body design of the ES-335 provides a greater sustain and resonance than solid body guitars. This sustain gave country guitarists the ability to play solos with long, drawn-out notes that could hang in the air for a moment, giving the music a more emotional and expressive quality.
• Electric Sound: The ES-335 was one of the first hollow body guitars to incorporate a solid block of wood in its design. This block helped to eliminate feedback issues that had previously plagued hollow body guitars, making it a popular choice for electric performances. Its clean and bright sound made it an ideal choice for country guitarists looking for a distinct tone that could cut through the mix.

All of these factors contributed to the ES-335 becoming an iconic guitar in country music history. Its versatility, sustain, and electric sound set new standards for guitar design and inspired numerous guitarists in the genre to adopt its playing style. As a result, the ES-335 has become a symbol of the influence and innovation that country music has had on the evolution of the guitar.

3. Iconic Performers Who Used It

When it comes to the Gibson ES-335, several iconic performers have used this hollow body electric guitar in their country music performances over the years. Here are just a few noteworthy examples:

Moving on to the Gretsch Country Gentleman, this guitar has also been used by a number of notable country musicians. Some of the most famous names include:

As for the Fender Telecaster Thinline, it has certainly made its mark on country music as well. Notable performers who have played this guitar include:

Finally, when it comes to the Epiphone Casino, there are a few country music performers who have made great use of this guitar over the years. They include:

As you can see, these iconic performers have used these guitars to create some of the most enduring country music songs of all time. Each of these guitars has played a unique role in shaping the genre, and their influence can still be felt today.

The Epiphone Casino

When it comes to iconic hollow-body electric guitars in country music, there’s no doubt that the Epiphone Casino is one that demands attention. With its unique construction and distinct sound, it has left a lasting impression on the genre. But what is it about this guitar that makes it so special? Let’s dive in and explore the background, impact on country music, and the legendary performers who have chosen to wield the Epiphone Casino in their music careers.

1. Background

The background of each of these iconic hollow body electric guitars is fascinating and adds to their legendary status in country music. Here’s a detailed background on each guitar:

Gibson ES-335:

– The Gibson ES-335 was first released in 1958 and has been a mainstay in the realm of music since then.
– It’s a semi-hollow body guitar, meaning that it has a solid center block separating the hollow chambers.
– Its design was a unique combination of the solid body electric guitar and the traditional hollow body archtop guitar, which allowed for the sustain and stability of a solid body with the resonance of a hollow body.
– Its popularity exploded in the 1960s and it became a favorite among rock and roll musicians.
– It has been used by artists in various genres of music including blues, jazz, and of course, country.

Gretsch Country Gentleman:

– The Gretsch Country Gentleman was first introduced in the late 1950s and was designed by Chet Atkins, a legendary country guitarist.
– It’s a full hollow body guitar with a unique sound and feel due to its shallow body depth and type of woods used.
– Its signature sound and tonal capabilities attracted a wide variety of artists from various music genres.
– The signature “Chet Atkins” sound made possible by the unique design of the Country Gentleman can be heard in countless country hits.
– Its popularity in the country music genre was solidified when artists like George Harrison of the Beatles and Brian Setzer popularized the guitar with their own music.

The Fender Telecaster Thinline:

– The Fender Telecaster Thinline was introduced in 1968 as a thinner, lighter version of the Telecaster.
– It’s a semi-hollow body guitar, with its unique sound and feel being made possible by the use of two “F” holes and the type of wood used in its construction.
– Its unique design and Fender’s reputation for high-quality guitars made it a favorite among musicians in various genres, including country.
– The guitar’s tonal capabilities make it an ideal choice for the twangy sound that is often associated with country music.
– Artists such as Merle Haggard, Keith Richards, and Brad Paisley have all used the Fender Telecaster Thinline in their music.

The Epiphone Casino:

– The Epiphone Casino was first introduced in 1961 and quickly gained popularity among guitarists in various genres of music, including R&B and of course, country.
– Its hollow body design, including two unbound f-holes, made it unique from other guitars on the market.
– The guitar’s lightweight construction and tonal versatility made it a favorite among musicians looking for a bright, twangy sound for their music.
– The Casino’s popularity in the country music genre was solidified by artists like Keith Richards, who used the guitar on the Rolling Stones’ three-year run of country-inspired music.
– The Beatles also famously used the Epiphone Casino, with John Lennon famously using one to perform “Ticket to Ride” during the band’s legendary 1965 Shea Stadium concert.

The backgrounds of these iconic guitars, from their unique designs to the artists who made them popular, add to their legendary status in the world of music, and particularly in the world of country.

2. How it Shaped Country Music

The Gibson ES-335 played a significant role in shaping the sound of country music. Here are some ways how this hollow-body electric guitar influenced the music:

• Versatility: The ES-335 is a versatile guitar that can produce a wide range of sounds, from warm and bluesy to bright and twangy. This versatility made it suitable for different sub-genres of country music, from traditional country to rockabilly.
• Sustain: The semi-hollow design of the ES-335 gives it greater sustain and resonance than a solid-body guitar. This sustain helped create the famous “chicken pickin'” sound that defined many country guitar solos and licks.
• Electric sound: The ES-335 was one of the first electric guitars to have a semi-hollow design. This allowed country guitarists to produce a louder and more electric sound than with a traditional acoustic guitar. As a result, the ES-335 defined the electric sound of country music and paved the way for other electric guitars.
• Pioneering: Many iconic country guitarists, such as Chet Atkins and Scotty Moore, were early adopters of the ES-335. They experimented with its new sound and helped develop the style of country music that we know today. Without the ES-335, country music might have sounded very different.

The ES-335 made an indelible impact on country music by providing a versatile, sustaining, electric sound that helped shape the genre. Its pioneering design was embraced by many legendary country guitarists who helped define the country music sound as we know it today.

3. Iconic Performers Who Used It

The Gibson ES-335 is one of the most iconic hollow body electric guitars in country music history, and it has been used by a plethora of legendary musicians to create some of the most memorable country songs of all time. Here are a few examples of the most prominent performers who used this classic guitar:

• Chet Atkins: Known as the “father of country music”, Chet Atkins was one of the earliest adopters of the Gibson ES-335. He helped to popularize the guitar in the country music scene and many of his biggest hits feature the distinctive sound of this classic instrument.
• B.B. King: Although not a country musician himself, B.B. King’s virtuosic playing style has influenced countless artists across a range of genres, including country. His use of the Gibson ES-335 on “The Thrill Is Gone” is nothing short of legendary, and it helped to cement the guitar’s status as an all-time classic.
• Larry Carlton: One of the most sought-after session guitarists of the 1970s and 1980s, Larry Carlton used the Gibson ES-335 to great effect on many of his most memorable recordings. His smooth, jazzy style was a perfect match for the warm, mellow tones of this classic hollow body electric guitar.
• Dave Grohl: Although he’s best known for his work with the Foo Fighters and Nirvana, Dave Grohl is also an accomplished guitarist in his own right. He’s used the Gibson ES-335 on a number of recordings, including the Foo Fighters’ hit song “Everlong”, which features a soaring guitar solo that perfectly showcases the versatility of this iconic instrument.

These are just a few of the many legendary performers who have used the Gibson ES-335 to create some of the most memorable country songs of all time. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a budding musician just starting out, this classic guitar is sure to inspire you and help you to create music that is both timeless and unforgettable.

Conclusion

After exploring the Gibson ES-335, Gretsch Country Gentleman, Fender Telecaster Thinline, and Epiphone Casino, it’s clear to see that hollow body electric guitars played an important role in shaping country music history. These instruments not only provided a distinct sound but also a unique look and feel that became synonymous with the genre.

While the Gibson ES-335 was widely popular among country musicians, the Gretsch Country Gentleman certainly held its own with its distinct appearance and sound. With its signature “horseshoe” pickup and Bigsby tremolo system, the Country Gentleman was a favorite among players like Chet Atkins and Eddie Cochran. Its vibrant, jangly tone made it perfect for accompanying vocal melodies and arguably paved the way for the “twangy” country sound that would become popular in the 1950s and beyond.

The Fender Telecaster Thinline, known for its semi-hollow body design and dual F-hole cutouts, provided a versatile option for guitarists. Iconic players like Keith Richards and James Burton favored the Telecaster Thinline for not only its sound but also its versatility in adapting to different genres. In country music, the Telecaster Thinline cemented its place in history with players like Buck Owens and Don Rich, whose signature sound became known as the “Bakersfield Sound”.

Finally, the Epiphone Casino may not have been as widely popular in country music as the aforementioned guitars, but its impact on the genre should not be overlooked. With its thin, hollow body and P-90 pickups, the Casino provided a unique tone that fit perfectly in the “Nashville Sound” of the 1960s. Elvis Presley famously played a hollow body Epiphone guitar, solidifying the brand’s place in music history.

In conclusion, while each of these guitars had their own unique qualities, they all played a significant role in shaping the sound of country music. From the jangly tone of the Gretsch Country Gentleman to the twangy sound of the Fender Telecaster Thinline, these guitars provided a distinct voice that continues to inspire musicians to this day. Whether you’re a die-hard country fan or simply appreciate great guitar playing, it’s impossible to overlook the impact that these iconic hollow body electric guitars have had on the genre.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a hollow body electric guitar?

A hollow body electric guitar is a type of guitar that has a hollow or semi-hollow wooden body. The strings are amplified through magnetic pickups, which are usually mounted on the body of the guitar.

What makes a hollow body electric guitar unique?

The key feature of a hollow body electric guitar is its resonance, which is created by the hollow chamber in the body. This resonance gives the guitar a rich, warm tone that is perfect for genres like jazz and country.

What sets the Gibson ES-335 apart from other hollow body electric guitars?

The Gibson ES-335 is unique because it combines the resonance of a hollow body guitar with the sustain and feedback resistance of a solid body guitar. This hybrid design makes it a versatile instrument that can be used in a wide range of musical genres.

Who are some of the most famous country musicians who have used the Gibson ES-335?

Some of the most iconic performers who have used the Gibson ES-335 include Chuck Berry, Eric Clapton, and B.B. King. In country music, the ES-335 has been used by players like Keith Urban, Vince Gill, and Brad Paisley.

What is unique about the Gretsch Country Gentleman?

The Gretsch Country Gentleman is unique because of its distinctive “hi-fi” sound, which is created by its dual Filter’Tron pickups. This sound has made the guitar a favorite among country guitarists, and it has been used by legends like Chet Atkins and George Harrison.

How has the Fender Telecaster Thinline influenced country music?

The Fender Telecaster Thinline has influenced country music by providing a more versatile alternative to traditional hollow body guitars. Its semi-hollow body and single-coil pickups give it a bright, twangy sound that is ideal for country music. It has been used by players like Merle Haggard and Keith Richards.

What is unique about the Epiphone Casino?

The Epiphone Casino is unique because of its distinctive “bell-like” tone, which is created by its hollow body and P-90 pickups. This sound has made it a favorite among rock and roll guitarists, but it has also been used in country music by performers like George Harrison and Paul McCartney.

What should I look for when buying a hollow body electric guitar?

When buying a hollow body electric guitar, you should consider factors like the type of wood used in the body, the quality of the pickups, and the overall build quality of the instrument. It’s also important to consider the sound you’re looking for and to choose a guitar that matches your playing style.

What are some common playing techniques used in country music on hollow body electric guitars?

Common playing techniques used in country music on hollow body electric guitars include hybrid picking, fingerstyle playing, and using a “chicken-pickin'” technique to create fast, staccato notes. Country guitarists also often make use of the guitar’s tone and volume controls to achieve different sounds and effects.

Do I need to use a specific type of amplifier with a hollow body electric guitar?

No, you can use any type of amplifier with a hollow body electric guitar. However, because of the guitar’s unique sound, some guitarists prefer to use tube amplifiers or other high-quality, vintage-style amps to achieve the desired tone.

References

• History of the Solid Body Electric Guitar
• The Best Electric Guitars For Country Music