Gibson Firebird Electric Guitars

Gibson Firebird electric guitars were first launched in 1960s; it might be hard to believe, but the sleek, unique styling of Gibson Firebird electric guitars was designed by an automotive designer. After the initial failure of Gibson's Explorer guitars, the company found itself needing another entry with a modern but less radical design, especially after their main competitor Fender began to produce their Stratocaster electric guitars. As a result, Gibson Guitar Corporation brought in Ray Dietrich, a Detroit car designer, to step up their design game.

Modifying the Explorer design by rounding its corners and reversing both the shape of the guitar and the position of the tuning pegs on the headstock, Dietrich created the first in the line of Gibson Firebird electric guitars. A far better seller than its predecessor, the Firebird has gone through several incarnations, and has been in steady production since 1990. The Gibson Firebird electric guitars were also one of the first guitars to offer custom finishes and colours – another feature inspired by Dietrich's experience in the automobile industry.

Adopted by popular guitarists and players like Eric Clapton, Keith Richards and Dave Grohl, the Firebird has proven to be a versatile instrument for a wide range of musicians. With classic, yet modern looks, Gibson Firebird electric guitars have the quality, longevity and staying power expected from Gibson guitars.

Aside from the distinctive "winged" body and its reverse design, with the treble horn longer than the bass, Gibson Firebird electric guitars feature neck-through-body design, a mahogany body and a rosewood fingerboard. Dual mini humbucker pickups provide a rich, full, crisp sound, and banjo tuners in the headstock complete the unique look. Add an expressive range of tone, fast action, excellent sustain, and a natural playing feel, and you've got an ideal guitar for jazz, blues, classic rock, or full-on shredding.

Although little has changed in their design since the original, Gibson Firebird electric guitars still offer a fresh, modern look and that solid Gibson sound for any budding or professional guitarist.

You can see current listings for Gibson Firebird Electric Guitars below: