description Gibson Explorer 1958 Overview
The Gibson Explorer is an electric guitar introduced in 1958 as part of Gibson's Modernistic series. Its radical angular body design was initially commercially unsuccessful, with fewer than 100 units sold in its original run. Discontinued in the early 1960s, it was later reissued in the 1970s, finding popularity among hard rock and metal guitarists. The Explorer's distinctive shape has become iconic in rock music, with influential players including Allen Collins of Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Edge of U2, and James Hetfield of Metallica.
help Gibson Explorer 1958 FAQ
What was Gibson's original intention behind launching the Explorer in 1958?
The Gibson Explorer was introduced in 1958 as part of the company's futuristic Modernistic series, which also included the Flying V and the Moderne. Gibson intended these radically angular body designs to modernize their image and compete with Fender's sleek solid-body guitars.
Why was the 1958 Gibson Explorer initially a commercial failure?
The radical, angular design of the 1958 Explorer was too unconventional for the musical tastes of the late 1950s, resulting in extremely poor sales. In its original run, fewer than 100 units were actually sold, making the surviving 1958 models incredibly rare and valuable today.
When did the Gibson Explorer finally become popular among musicians?
The Explorer's popularity surged in the late 1970s and 1980s when hard rock and heavy metal guitarists embraced its aggressive, futuristic shape. High-profile players like James Hetfield of Metallica famously wielded Explorers, cementing the guitar's status as a rock icon.
Was the 1958 Explorer ever officially discontinued by Gibson?
Yes, due to its initial commercial failure, Gibson discontinued the Explorer in the early 1960s. However, the overwhelming demand from rock musicians led the company to officially reissue the guitar in the late 1970s, where it has remained in continuous production since.
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