History Of The Gibson Flying V Guitar
When you think of rock music, heavy guitars and power chords you can almost picture the infamous Flying V guitar in your mind. Slung low over the shoulder of the lead guitarist with his head down, long hair moshing to the beat.
The Gibson Flying V is definitely one of the guitars that will be written about in history as one of the most amazing and unique guitar designs ever made. Launched in 1958 and then again is 1967, the Flying V began to take the rock work in it’s grasp.
Although Gibson still make and sell the Flying V today under the name of the Tribal V (complete with tattoo patterns) it is the older and more famous models that are highly collectible. The older models, made in the 50′s are referred to as the V Factor, but the guitars made in the late 60′s are the most sought after.
The Flying V has been played by so many different people, all over the world that it is hard to pick any one person out to consider the ambassador of the model. Perhaps Jimi Hendrix who worked closely with Gibson to create his own Paisley Flying V signature model is a good example of the level of musicians that played the V.
If you were to go out and buy a brand new model today, the Tribal V would be the one to look for. Gibson have only manufactured this as a limited edition run of 350 units, so finding one may be difficult. Not impossible though if you check out good local shops and places like eBay. If you want the real deal, you will be looking for the older models from the late 1960s and early 1970s, when the V was at the height of its popularity.
The Gibson Tribal V is a newer, more up to date version of the older model with all new components and electronics. The modern, youth tribal tattoo markings and graphics make it stand out from the crowd too.
There have been other makers of the V style guitar through the years. Ibanez for one copied the look and design when they released their own version. Rumor has it that Gibson had to step in with their lawyers to prevent these guitars from being made and sold, such was the strength and quality of the copiers design.
The original design, superb build quality and manufacturing process set the V ahead of it’s rivals and set it up to be one of the most famous guitars in history. It’s influence on the rock and roll world will be felt for many years to come.
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