The Gibson ES-335: A Short History
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This is the five watt world "Short History" of the Gibson ES-335 family of guitars. As always with a subject this vast, to fit it into a video that runs less than 30 mins (OK, just barely, :) I've had to exclude many, many details and grab on to the points that speak to me. So it might be more accurate to call this "My Short History of the 335". Please add the items you think I missed, or those you believe are wrong from your own research, in the comments.
I need to thank the guys at Premier Guitar magazine, Jason Shadrick and company, for the permission to use the clip of John Bollinger’s Rig Rundown with Larry Carlton.
I’d also like to thank Jon Roncolato at Carter Vintage Guitars in Nashville for sharing the pics of their current batch of sweet vintage semi-solid guitars.
As always, I am indebted to my friends and fellow gear nerds Perry McMannis and Dave Onorato for saving me with yet another massive script.
Thanks for watching, until next time, thanks for being a part of the five watt world.
Keith
***Five watt world participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn commissions by linking to Amazon. In simpler language, this means that whenever you buy something from Amazon from a link on here, I receive a small percentage of its price.
When you said ‘the reason everyone wanted a 335’ I went ‘yep, Marty McFly in Back to the Future’ and you said ‘Eric Clapton’ and that made more sense.
😆
Or did it?
For me it was Alvin Lee.
I have one just because of back to the future :)
McFly had a 345. 😁
Your channel is like the PBS of guitar history. Factual, well told, and your voice is mesmerizing.
Keith’s way of speaking really efficaciously helps me chill out. The high-quality research makes it so I never become “angry keyboard warrior.”
I was lucky enough, that in 2018, my uncle called me to ask me if I would give his guitar a new home. He has arthritis, in his hands and fingers, and cannot play it anymore. He told me that he had given it to an 18 year old kid, at his church, a year ago, but that he brought it back to him saying "I'm gonna get a real guitar." All I can say is "Thank God for ignorance!" I told my uncle I'd be more than happy to give his guitar a new home and that it would never be neglected. That's how I got my 1964 Gibson ES335TDC with a Maestro Vibrola Tremolo and I still absolutely love it. It's cherry and has it's dings but sings like a bird. I have no idea what it's worth but it's priceless to me. Thanks for letting me share.
Photo please?!?!
Man... Love this story..Your uncle has a heart of gold dude..to give his guitar to a kid wanting to learn..I mean thats not JUST a guitar....anyway .I'm glad for YOU that kid had NO idea of the quality of that guitar .I hope he finds himself whatever he "THINKS" is a real guitar..Good for you to have that instrument..
"I'm gonna get a real guitar" Probably just buys a dual humbucking 300$ ibanez and a line 6 spider IV. I'm still rolling from that line.
I literally have anxiety reading this 😂
@@michaellefort6128 Sure, he'll post it in the comments below to appease you.
I bought my '67 335 new when I was 17. The payments were $9.00 a month. My father cosigned the loan and he passed away 3 months later. The credit insurance paid it off and I played the guitar throughout my 20 years in music. I still have her and I call her "Gypsy". What an incredible instrument! Many thanks for the history!
Hi Jerry,
I can see you're as faithful to "Gypsy" as I've been faithful to "Mr. Gibson" since 1975. Great to read a story like yours that I can easily relate to.
Regards.
Mike M
Jerry, Great story and it really tugs at the heart strings man. Thanks for sharing that.
Keith
Take care of it
Great job , thanks !
Great story.I love my 335 too. My favorite. Too bad about your dad.
A Gretch, a Gibson ES335, and a Les Paul are all you need - unless you are Jimi Hendrix, then, you need a strat.
I think it's interesting how you added "2019 dollars" to the prices to kinda put things in perspective. :-)
In '64, there was a Chevy dealership nearby. I walked by once when I was 7. I saw a Corvette Sting Ray there with a sticker just over $5500. I couldn't believe it. Actually had to ask my dad why a car could be so expensive ;)
Crazy that a case was almost £400 in today’s money, def not that expensive now!
@@Livelaughlimpbizkit really? Go buy a Cedar Creek custom.
kerranz oh I’m sure there are I just mean standard off the rack cases
Yes!!! Then I don’t have to open a separate page for Google haha.
This series is incredibly satisfying to watch. I don’t even play guitar.
Never too late to start
Agreed. I still would have found this interesting in my pre-guitar days. I've only been playing for about a year and a half, and I still suck, so I'm actually still half in that camp. ;P I just love music, and things to geek out about.
Keep the the awesome work Keith! This is my favorite content on your channel.
You should get yourself one. Even if you don't play it all the time, if you need it at least you know you've got it.
I didn't play guitar, either, the first time I watched one of Keith's 'Short History' vids...
I do now, though 😎👍
@@ilovemonkays You Got That Right !
Les Paul approached Gibson with "The Log" in the early fifties, so Ted McCarty was aware of it. In no way did he invent the concept of the semi-hollowbody guitar. Les Paul did, even though he was pitching his solidbody concept at the time.
That's exactly what I was thinking 👍
Yeah, that's what I was thinking.... I feel it's too important of a well documented fact for Keith to have left out!
kris russell yip
Les Paul made the famous 'Log' from a scrap piece of pine 4X4, proving that he was a tone wood fanatic...well, maybe not.
ES-335 is not an acoustic in any way. It's an electric guitar that looks kinda acoustic, and does a good job of fighting feedback, so a lot of the more jazzy folks grabbed it up. Of course, the guitar can rock out in every way, so it found a home there as well. Sadly, they are a major hassle to work on, as I can attest. But, boy, do they look good!
The first electric prototypes were Spanish style - and obviously hollow body - guitars that had bad feedback problems. Which prompted the development of the solid body electric.
The ES-335 has been my main guitar since 1969....and 11,000+ gigs later!
wow. 11k is amazing.
"Alright guys now listen, this is a blues riff in B, watch me for the changes and try to keep up, okay."
Got to wonder how many 335's Marty McFly sold for Gibson.
Funny thing is, every time I've been to a blues jam, everything seems to be in E and A. Don't think I've ever had anyone call for B.
I'm more impressed by how he managed to get hold of one in 1955!
@@FuzzWoof he did have a time machine...
It has always fascinated me that nobody questions the key... In the real world, I've seen people thrown out of bands for less!
@@viennapalace B is a pretty traditional key for blues. If someone said "blues riff in A," then yeah, the saxophone player would probably ask if we can transpose up a step.
I bought mine because of Alex Lifeson, the variety of tones he had between 74 and 81, through 8 records was astounding.
I bought my 335 while in the Navy in the 70's. Still own it.
3 Reasons I play an ES-type guitar: 1 The sound 2 Noel Gallagher 3 Back To The Future
Bueller Haha...Your third reason is why I learned how to play “Johnny B. Goode”.
Totally agree with all three reasons, even if the appearance of the ES in Back To The Future was a mistake by the film crew. The scene where Marty McFly played this guitar was back in 1955, as we all know from the movie, but the ES has not been invented at that time. ;-)
Holger Vorberg It was another 3 years or so before the 335 came out if I’m not mistaken. A few years ago, despite having a severe case of Parkinson’s Disease, Michael J. Fox appeared on stage with a well-known band (ironically, I forget their name) and played “Johnny B. Goode” with them.
I don’t know much about the disease, but apparently, the tremors can be controlled if your muscles are engaged. He played flawlessly as far as I could tell and it was a really cool thing to see. There’s a video of it on TH-cam here somewhere.
I play full size ES guitars because at 6'-6" I make normal sized guitars look tiny, and they just sound awesome as a cool side benefit.
Yeah #3!! 🎸
I'm not a Guitarist, rather a Keyboard player that doubles on Bass. I have become a great fan of your channel and would recommend it to the many Guitar players that I know and work with. Your content is accurate and well researched with no hype or BS. Your delivery is honest, and straightforward yet friendly, entertaining and very eloquent.
I’ve always wondered if Les Pauls “Log” had any influence on the design of es-335. The solid center with hollow sides isn’t a long way from the construction of the 335.
Brilliant point. Wonder if even the staff at Gibson was conscious of the similarly at the time.
There's a doc about that. In short, it needed a body so it could be held by a human. Good question either way.
@@ayyjayess2304 I saw a old interview with Les Paul and he said the first time he took it to a show it was just the 4x4 for a body. He said everyone thought it was so strange that they didn’t even pay attention to the music and just wanted to look at the way it was built. He said he decided he wasn’t going to take it out again until it looked more like a regular guitar 😆
I own a telecaster and an epipphone Sheraton II which is basically a 335. Those are the only electric guitars I’ll ever need, along with my jazz bass. I’m a simple man with simple taste I guess, but I can do everything I’m into with those.
I got rid of my 335 because Keith said to downsize.
Hahahahaha! Nice
Ha! Hey don't lay that at my door. Everyone needs to decide "how much is enough?" for themselves brother Wombley. :)
Richards... ? Who listens to that guy?
No you didn't, you're just saying that!!
hahaha now THIS is how you troll properly!
I'm a 58 year old beginner & I bought a 335 style guitar as my first electric guitar for 3 reasons - They can function as an acoustic guitar late at night when everyone else is asleep, they look the way a guitar should, the way guitars have looked for as long as I remember seeing guitars anyway & finally because, looking at the incredible variety of styles they are used in, they must rate as one of the most versatile guitars on the planet.
Good enough reasons for me, anyway.
I love your reason of it functioning as an acoustic guitar late at night. How is it working for you now 2 years later?
@@jadipeperzak4034 It's still my favourite guitar & although the banjo get's the most love these days, the 335 is still my "go to" guitar after 9:00pm. And to be honest, I've only plugged it in a few times, even though it gets played nearly every day... So it's worked out great!
Five Watt World goes with a cold beer better than peanuts do.
What time zone are you in? 🤪
@@chipsterb4946 Good question. Europe, so it's evening, not breakfast time!
@@chipsterb4946 Does it matter?
Or the morning coffee
Amen!
It may be a five watt world, but your channel is 100 watts of enjoyment with a 4 by 12 cabinet of knowledge. Thanks from a new subscriber.
Thanks! Welcome to five watt world Chris!
When in 1978 I saw John McLaughlin playing live in São Paulo/Brazil with a Walnut 345 (which I didn't even know and thought was a 335!), I decided that one day I would have one of those beautiful Gibsons! I played professionally for many years, until before I was 30 I had to stop, with a lot of pain caused by tendonitis and fibromyalgia. But I continued to cherish the dream of having a 335, and when I turned 50 I received from my wife the greatest gift of my life, my 1997 Sunburst Dot 335!
The 355 with Bigsby has to be the most beautiful guitar ever made. And it actually plays very well to boot.
BB’s tone on “Live at the Regal” is god like. He was truly at the top of his game and human musical history.
Matt Fields Stevie Ray once said he was playing with BB and he was killing it ! The people where going crazy and he turned his guitar to BB like top that , and BB played one vibrato note that crushed him and the audience too their cores !!! Stevie said it shook him to his bones .
Gilbert Spader where did you read this story? I googled it and can’t find it.
Thaddeus Fields I saw him in England with Double Trouble and after the show he was holding court with Rick Derringer. I was in the Air Force and played guitar and was talking with the roadies and said they Stevie would love to meet an American serving overseas. He told that story . Also Nico Mcbain was Derringers drummer and when the tour was over Nico was going to hangout with Iron Maiden because their drummer was sick .
Robben Ford. Rockpalast 2007. ES-335. Dumble. The tone is tone of the gods. Amazing.
Back when I was about 10 I watched Back To The Future and saw Marty Mcfly rockin' Johnny B. Good on a cherry red Gibson!
I told myself then one day I'd have a guitar like that. It took several decades but I finally have a cherry red lefty Epiphone Dot, and then also acquired a tobacco burst Sheraton ii. Love the 335 body style guitars!
If the Gibson ES-335 debuted in 1958, how come Marty Mcfly rocks out on one in 1955?
@@riproar11
Norm Harris tell the story of how when supplying guitars for the movie that guitar got "the shot". Check You tube videos @ Normans Rare Guitars for the full story.
I love Epiphone. I have a Casino and a Lucille. Blessed and grateful.
Thanks to five watt world for being the Smithsonian of guitar history.
The disappointment I felt when I clicked on the first history of the Telecaster and discovered it stopped in 1972 was overturned when Mr. Williams uploaded a separate video on the history of the Thinline Tele.
Keith, I must admit that after viewing the "The Gibson ES-335: A Short History", multiple times, I was bitten by the Gibson ES-335 bug and bought a Gibson Exclusives ES-335 Dot in Gloss Olive Drab. It was purchased directly from Gibson and delivered in ABSOLUTELY PERFECT condition with zero blemishes. Playing it is a totally new experience when compared to a Gibson Les Paul Standard or any American Fender Stratocasters. I must say that It is one of the easiest playing and most beautiful guitars having ever passed through my hands. It is now my daily "go to" guitar to play. I cannot thank you enough for the hard work you put into producing these videos. You are one amazing dude!
I also have to believe that Les Paul's "Log" was part of the inspiration for the ES-335.
I remember Alex Lifeson playing his white 355 on the Hemisphere's tour in 1978. I couldn't believe they would play La Villa Strangiato live. Furthermore, I was amazed the 355 didn't catch fire or crumble to dust at the end. Gibson must build a good guitar.
Dear Keith, thank you for mentioning Steve Khan. His contributions to the Steely Dan catalogue (e.g. his rhythm work on "Aja" and his great solos on "Gaucho") are often overlooked! His recent work in the latin jazz genre is also worth checking out.
Steve actually commented here. I was star struck.
I almost want to say that the 335 is a underrated gem, but when you look around, it's everywhere. I've always loved the look of it, and the sound is unmistakable.
In my mind it is as much a staple guitar as a Strat or Les Paul. A little less prevalent but the same level of importance.
A video on the Epiphone Casino type semi's would be great.
I've got an Epiphone Casino and personally, I prefer it to the 335. I'm no great guitarist so don't take this as a real judgment. I just prefer the tone the Epi puts out to my cousins 335.
And maybe the Sheraton as well even though that is a full hollow body.
I have a Casino, a 335, and a 345. I do play them all, but I find myself playing the 345 most. The Casino mostly hangs on the wall as a tribute to John Lennon.
I'm building my own version of the ES-335! From a kit, sure, but so much fun! I'm doing a cherry red Clapton Cream clone... but its a dot fret board. I did make my own orange label for inside the f-hole, and found the Krishna stamp online. I'll be attempting a pearl inlay on a slab of ebony for the headstock. I got Grover tuning machines, and a bone nut. Upgraded the switch to a Switchcraft, with the correct cream tip. The resistances on the humbuckers interest me at 7.5k for the neck and 15.5 at the bridge, so I'll try them before spending extra on them. The pots are within spec, and resistance is linear. I'll be keeping those. The kit also didn't come with a pickguard, so I got a reproduction. I also got a two screw trussrod cover, with "custom" engraved. I also upgraded the bridge to a roller.
Very timely video! Thank you sir!
trwsandford please upload a video when your done ! I’m an amateur luthier myself and building the exact same guitar right now lol
I have an ES-335 build going right now on my TH-cam channel. I hate to mention this on someone elses channel but if you interested just click the white Les Paul.
Dane Nichols glad you did mate subscribed !
@@TJJJJJJJJJJJ thanks much my friend.
What kit are you using?
My 335 cherry red of course, was a long time in the finding. I always wanted one for all the reason stated in the video but could never pull the trigger on one because it was not the right feel for one reason or another. I knew I really wanted one but none of the ones I had tried in many many guitar stores spoke to me. Then in 2000 I walked into Jim's Music in So Cal just as a new shipment of Gibsons had beed delivered. Jim was hanging way up high a beautiful just out of the box, untouched by commoners a translucent cherry red 335 dot. I had just got a new credit card that day with a $3000 limit. Before he could rest it in the hook I asked "May I play that 335?" I remembered his response to my request was less then enthusiastic but he complied. As I sat and played I knew within 5 bars that I had found her! This is the one! I stoped play so quickly it must have been a shock to jim as I said "I'll take it!" He took my new never used credit car and unbelievingly ran the charge. Then his face changed to that of amazement and said "Wow that went though without a hick-up.. you didn't even let me get it put up in the shop!" I thing he was wanting to at least have a go with it. My 335 is the most love guitar in my quiver!
Fantastic! I'd love to hear it! Can you do a quick vid?
The 335 is one of the most beautiful and elegant guitar designs ever.
I agree. I can neither afford one, nor justify the purchase though. I just got a Firefly instead. ;) I know, not the same. I mean it's, what, 6-7% of the cost of a Gibson? Just having some fun.
God I know.....Everything about them is superb. They actually send chills down my spine when I think about them or see a picture of someone playing one. I want one so bad.
I agree wholeheartedly! I fell in love with the 335 in 1960, and to this day it is still my favorite! I've owned many guitars through the years and the 335 is still my go to axe!
Keith Williams: How many guitars do you need?
Comments: Telecaster, Stratocaster, Les Paul, ES-335
Me: What about the SG?
À SG is Lespaul with à different clothing.
@@daviddawson1718 He might have been referring to the fact that the Les Paul was replaced by the SG, which at the time was still called a Les Paul until about 1963. The traditional Les Paul was later returned to the catalog and the replacement was renamed to SG.
@@daviddawson1718 - You're right - that it's very much a different guitar; he's right - that it was originally called a Les Paul. I've seen them for sale in the 1970s with the original papers in the guitar case and they were called Les Pauls on the printed invoices. The only thing that matters is that they're great guitars. Pete Townsend convinced Angus to play one.
If you've never played an ES335 or any decent semi-hollow body, especially in front of a nicely cranked amp, do yourself a favour! It has an amazing responsiveness to amp interaction, much more so than any solidbody. Can't wait to get my '72 ES340. Plays like no other of my guitars.
What about a 360/12 ?
I never gave a ES 335 a second look growing up during the hair metal days. While I was in college British Alternative music started filtering into the US. I began noticing that the 335 was favored by Noel Gallagher. That was what changed my mind about importance of such a versatile instrument
Didn't he use an Epiphone Casino?
@@cloughie1981 he did in the early days of Oasis, along with riviera . I believe the Union Jack guitar he used at Maine Road was a riviera.
@@allenreeves1999 I thought the Union Flag one was also a Casino lol - regardless, all lovely guitars. I have always loved Epiphones (I imagine from inheriting my old mans' love of the Beatles and watching John Lennon play one) and currently own an excellent Epiphone Les Paul - however it's a dream of mine to own a cherry red Gibson 335. I hope you enjoy yours :) edit - thanks for your insight man, happy playing!!
@@cloughie1981 I had a Epiphone ES 335 briefly. It just didn’t float my boat. I have a dirty lemon Epiphone Les Paul that I changed the knobs out for amber speed knobs, and the pickups for some SD zebra pearly gates, but I’ve been having issues with my Mojotone wiring harness. Beautiful guitar non the less. I also have a SG special with p-90s that sounds amazing
@@allenreeves1999 Yea I just got my Les Paul last month and plan on changing out the pickups soon. Glad you're enjoying that SG man
I can’t believe how different the world is... 500 units was a massive success the world was much smaller then
A semi solid guitar design was not uniquely Ted McCarty’s idea. Les Paul came up with it originally with his log
That’s what I was thinking
Definitely!
Ted was Brilliant, he also put in his advice on the Gibson Johnny Smith along with others, after he left Gibson he had become President at Biggs .. 335, at this point with advices with electric Guitars it's getting into ( Rocket Science 🚀)... Thanks Again, excellent information as usual... JD
My grandfather gave me his 67 (we think it's a 67) 335 TDC. He traded a Gretsch Country Gentleman for it in 1967 in Silver Springs, Maryland. It may not be the most "sought after" 335 but I find the 335 to be the greatest electric guitar model ever made. I always feel so connected to that guitar, especially for the music I like to play; I can switch between Rush and Steely Dan and fumble through their songs all on the same guitar. It's fantastic! Keith, thanks so much for your videos. They are always so informative and fun to watch.
From Victor Litz or Chuck Levins?
@@cedricwager181 Chuck Levins!
I've owned a lot of guitars, but nothing compares to my ES-335 figured top in antique walnut for me.
Great video.
Hello again Keith;
Your research and posting is as usual spot on.
At 12:26 in your video I can attest about the period 63-64 where there was a transition from PAF's. My '64 ES-335 TDC has a PAF humbucker on the bridge position and a Patent Number humbucker on the neck position. This was revealed to me during an appraisal in the early 1980's where the appraiser and I had a disagreement as to the manufacturing / shipping date of my 335. In 1978 I wrote Gibson when they were still in Kalamazoo Michigan where I received a postcard saying that my 335 was manufactured in 1961, the appraiser said: "it's a '64 and Gibson doesn't know what they're talking about because their shipping records are a mess". Bless his heart and may he RIP, Stanley Jay of Mandolin Brothers Staten Island NY knew his stuff.
My 335 also has a factory installed Bigsby with pearl inlays set where the stop tailpiece studs are and the ground wire is intact to the stud closest to the electronics harness. See any online photo posting of Justin Haywood of the Moody Blues with his '63 ES-335 TDC, it looks exactly the same.
I acquired my 335 in Brooklyn NY 1975 privately from a family member of an A & R representative for Buddah Records who had to approve the sale that it was his guitar. $275 was the price settled on and I had to also take the original hard shell case and Danelectro amp as part of the deal. Before finalizing the deal I took my 335 to Alex Ax in Greenwich Village to be checked out for its condition (neck / electronics / intonation) for a $10 fee. I knew back then my 335 was something special when the guitar tech offered me $500 on the spot for it that he knew I was there to have it checked out before purchasing it. Back in 1975 few people, except for professional musicians, knew the value or playability of collectable vintage guitars of all makers. Gibson, Fender and D'Angelico just to name a few. At the time I certainly didn't know.
The most recent appraisal was performed by NY String Service, right in front of me as all prior appraisals were done. The most intrusive step in the appraisal was using a flashlight and a dental mirror to look at the electronic components. The appraiser said: "This guitar is exactly as it was when it left the Gibson factory.
Last month I was in Los Angeles to see a boyhood friend facing the medical challenge of his life. As fate would have while accompanying my friend to a medical appointment when parking in Beverly Hills as I opened the door Joe Walsh was within 10 feet of me with his wife. I saw him disappear walking around the corner.
Following my friends appointment going down the elevator it stopped on a lower floor. There right in front of me was Joe and his wife again. Leaving my friend and his wife in the elevator I instinctively hopped off the elevator opened my tablet that has the appraisal photo of my 335 as its wallpaper where I said: "Hi Joe meet Mr. Gibson who's always been a far better guitar than I've ever been a guitar player". I kept it short and respectful with Joe and his wife explaining quickly why I was in Los Angeles pointing out my friend and his wife in the elevator doors just about closing.
Joe commented when seeing the photo about how great the necks are with 335's of that era. Again to be brief and respectful I ended the conversation by saying to Joe: "God bless you for everything you've done for me with your career". Putting his arm my shoulder Joe said: "God bless your friend too". Joe gave me a warm and genuine feeling I will never forget.
Mr. Gibson has always been wonderful to me since 1975 and has also been on occasions like with Joe Walsh a way to connect with other musicians no matter their level of ability or musical tastes.
Keep up the great work with your TH-cam postings Keith as you keep all of us musical gear geeks connected in our mutual love for music and gear of all types.
Warm regards,
Mike M
Great story Mike! What we're all here for. Love it.
Keith
After Les Paul invented 'The Log', he attached the sides of an archtop to make it look and be held like a guitar. At the time, Gibson was not interested. Interesting how the ES-335 body style is uncannily close to this early electric.
I’m 19 and nothing compares to my 1995 custom shop ES-355. Absolutely beautiful guitar and it really shines on stage. Plays, looks, and feels amazing. There’s no part of me that will ever get rid of my ES
This was awesome. I just bought my first 335 and it was a revelation. It was the guitar that I've been chasing my whole life. I will always have at least 1 in my collection from now on.
You forgot to mention Justin Hayward from the Moody Blues. His cherry red '63 ES-335 has been his main guitar since the time he joined the MB's. I can't figure out why Gibson never did a JH signature model for the 335.
For whatever reason, Justin Hayward always seems to slip through the cracks. He has used "Big Red" (as a roadie once called it.) with the Moody Blues since 1969. He also used a 1959 blonde ES-345 for a time (1972-1977). According to an interview with him, there were talks of a Justin Hayward model, but it never happened.
@@rondittyjr6868 on I inn njn no ininjinnij o inn I’m n I I’ll need
Justin Hayward is an excellent soloist!
I've heard it told that Eddie Van Halen used a 335 pick-up in his frankenstrat...we all know how that worked out...great vid as always!!!
Absolutely love this series of videos!! The 335 is a guitar that I didn’t really consider adding to my collection starting out, but has grown on me. Great video!!
John Lennon, Paul McCartney and George Harrison's Epiphone Casinos were basically rebadged ES-330s, not?
True enough. I had them in the video and pulled them because I thought that the Epi's deserved their own video in the future. The Kalamazoo semi's are golden.
Don't assume everyone knows who these people are. Did they play in a band? If so, which one?
If you don't recognize the names of three of the Beatles, you've been lying under a rock for decades.
Epiphone was a different company in Kalamazoo Michigan late 50's early 60's, eventually Gibson bought them out.
@@fnjesusfreak omg... that was an obvious joke. And a good one. You even gave the last names. c'mon man. Is everyone who watches videos like this so naive/humorless? "did they play in a band" was the giveaway... oh and it's the beatles who anyone watching a guitar history video (or anyone in the world) would know.
Hey and don't forget one thing about the 335 Keith ;
The Gibson ES335 is a beautiful instrument to behold ;
It is an absolute Work of Art.
Thanks for the fascinating Short History of the 335.
Love your channel.
Keith, another great video. As a recent proud owner of a Memphis Studio 335, it was refreshing to hear the history of the 335 as only you can do so well. Also, I would love to hear "The voice of the five-watt world" on a podcase such as Spotify. I find myself downloading your video and playing them in my car while I do an hour commute each way. And for me, I rather listen to things about music than the latest politic. Your videos seem to be the right length and dose to keep the drive moving. Thank you for what you do. You and Mr. Beato, as well as Reth Shull, keep me on the world. I call it 15 minutes of Theory, vlogging, and Five-watt world.
Interesting how the case in 58 is 400$ in todays dollars. So really my 335 at 3k with case is effectively about the same price as the original.
How come Justin Hayward was overlooked? Before he was invited to join the Moody Blues, he was playing a 335 which he had to sell to pay a bill. With the remaining cash, he purchased a Telecaster which is heard on his first 2 Moody Blues outings, *Days of Future Passed* and *In Search of the Lost Chord* , before he snagged a replacement 335 in Cherry with a Bigsby. It debuted during *On the Threshold of a Dream* , and he continues to play it today. Most of that info was from a column which he and John Lodge were interviewed for in the Guitar Player magazine September 1995 issue.
I was thinking the same thing. Justin Hayward amazing player. On the Threshold of a Dream and Seventh Sojourn I would completely wear out.
Justin Hayward almost always gets overlooked in videos of the 335. Maybe it's because he's not so much a "flashy" player, but simply - and superbly - plays to the song.
@@THEScottCampbell He has just a smidge of grit to his tone. Not enough to make it "dirty", per se. But enough to make it interesting, while still keeping musical. If you know what I mean.
I’ve never played a better 335-type than the 1987 (with a 1988 serial number!) Korean-built, white with gold hardware Epiphone Sheraton II my lovely wife gave me in ‘87. I’ve done a lot of looking, and it’s the only one I’ve seen in person that has a headstock that’s reads “Epiphone by Gibson” on it, but still has the “vine” inlay in genuine abalone shell (otherwise known as “Mother Of Pearl”). The frets are done in the same stuff, with Epi’s triangle shape in the centers, And what a guitar! It plays great, it sounds amazing, and it’s the first GOOD electric I ever had, after a succession of crappy ones my father purchased for me. He knew NOTHING about guitars. But his heart was in the right place. Anyway, in another writer’s entry, mention was made of how heavy one guitar was vs. an Epi. I own a Gretsch Country Gentleman, which, last I looked, were selling in the USA for between $3500 and $3750. Back in ‘87, this Sheraton II cost a whopping $800 US Dollars! You can still get them for about that here, but now they’re Chinese-made, and nowhere near as good as the Korean ones. Given the age of mine, it’s absolutely STELLAR!
Had to come back and watch this again because I finally have the appreciation for this instrument that it deserves.
Another lesser known ES guitar is the ES-333 a striped down version with a access panel on back like a Les Paul for Electronics access. I have a Blonde one that’s amazing. They are very fairly priced now so 🤐!
An excellent option for tour gigs and get accessibility to control just in case.
elvin bishop was an under appreciated artist.
Absolutely! He's truly unique and has been a favourite of mine since I was a kid.
I think he still plays. I saw him way back with his 345 and a red hot tube burnin' Fender Dual Showman on a good night that made a believer out of me.
@@robcale8165 Yes, he's still touring, I saw him last summer, excellent show! He's getting a little slower, played sitting down quite a bit, but still humorous and totally engaged.
We can learn from each other.
Elvin is still a-rockin! Not a "was", is an "is"! (Jeez, I feel soo old..,!)
These videos are the best content on all of TH-cam.
Thanks Jake
I wanted a 334 or 335 because of John McLaughlin playing a 334 in the late 70's. (Scalloped fretboard). I eventually got a 2010 custom shop
59 dot inlay 335 with bigsby. I've never played a vintage 335 but my one looks, plays and sounds amazing.
I just bought a 2017 Gibson Es-335 Memphis only three hours ago. I must’ve watched at least 10 videos to help me in the process of buying one. Your video was the most informative, and I thank you.The color of mine is a faded natural, with Grover tuners, and block inlays.
My favourite electric guitar style much less heavy than a solidbody. Gibson designed it but Yamaha perfected it. You cannot ignore the superior construction and much lower price point of the Yamaha SA2200 and these guitars have ebony fingerboard too.
I have a Yamaha SA2200. GREAT guitar. I had to buy it from a dealer in the U.K., because Yamaha doesn’t sell that model in the USA.
@@timdebaney7167 Frets Guitar Centre. I didn't have to pay VAT tax, because they were shipping it out of the UK. But I did have to pay US Customs
Fascinating documentary, as always, Keith. But each time I listen to one of those narratives of the countless changes - sometimes great, sometimes horrible - that major manufacturers go through over the years, I understand why custom-built handmade instruments are a far superior choice. Sure, they cost more. But you get precisely what you want and need: not what some marketing bozo dictated.
Same goes with the software, thats why people like arch linux
@@MB-rc8ie LOL! This has nothing to do with the subject matter at hand, but I actually laughed at this. xD
That's why I don't buy Fenders anymore. I can build 'em better.
FWW: “How many guitars do you need”?
Me: I already have enough...
FWW: “The Gibson ES-335: A Short History”
Me: I want an ES-335.
Thank you for yet another great video. I’m not a fan of Gibson, but for some reason I’m drawn to archtops and these type of double cutaways.
I’ll be in the lookout for one of these iconic guitars.
It’ll be nice if you make a video on the history of Gretsch Guitars.
Gretsch is on the list. :)
Thanks for watching.
Hello, my name is Hiram and I’m a GAS addict (lol). Yes, after many months of web surfing, online forums, reviews on YT, and watching this FWW video; my desire to indulge in my GAS grew exponentially, yes I’m that type of addict... my desire to put my paws on a 335 increased after watching your video even more. In spite of the COVID-19 pandemic and having one guitar too many, I decided to pay a visit to my local guitar shop in search for my coveted ES-335 style axe. Sadly my pockets aren’t that deep for a Gibson ES-335. I did some research, I read some reviews, and played the actual axe at the store, I had the opportunity and experienced first hand the sound, the tone and the level of craftsmanship of an Eastman T-386 (a 335 alternative) and needless to say, I pulled the trigger after trading some of my dust collecting gear to pay the difference. Probably one of these days I’ll find a viable excuse to spend that kind of money for a brand name in a headstock, but only time will tell... in the meantime l’ll get back to practice time and enjoy the thrill of this 335 like axe. Love the quality of your videos, keep up the good work! Stay safe and God bless you, Keith.
I purchased a Gibson Sunburst ES-335 dot neck in 1978 from an owner of a guitar store in Milwaukee, WI who I met while working at a European Health Spa. I told him my guitar I
used in college was in need of replacement. He said I will bring one in for you next week. I remember the manager hollering to the guy as he left the Spa
"bring something in nice for Doug, don't bring in a piece of crap". He brought a Gibson ES-335 that was about 10-15 years old but in excellent shape. I paid him $250.00. In the late 90's I sold it to a guy in Hawaii for $21,000.00. Happy ending - but I miss it.
Thank you so much! My first 335 was a 67. In 1979 I became a Gibson artist and Rendall Wall had Gibson build me a marvelous Gibson Artist Doc Stone prototype. I still have my original 67 335 and performed with it last week. After 55+ years it's still my very much favorite. Thank you for this documentary. I had to hold back tears!
I was finally able to find an buy the Epiphone Dot version. Being left-handed makes it so much harder. But the guitar is awesome :)
How/where did you find one? I don't know if I'd be able to afford one in the foreseeable future anyway, but would love to have to make the decision!
@@briandoherty3364 Check eBay. They show up from time to time, usually in the price range of $600-$750, occasionally as low as $350. I did a little research a few years ago on one that I found, and if I remember correctly they were made for Epiphone in Korea by Peerless. Peerless turns out quality products, but I don't think they're making this model anymore.
Excellent! Got myself a Dot also. Guitar store was unloading the Epiphones. Think they were getting new models in. Paid $400 & bought a hard case for another $100. At the time I was hesitant about purchase & had buyers remorse but I'm a happy camper today. Great guitar for decent price
I love your videos. I've started making sure to comment because I know it helps
Thanks Brayden!
The 339 sized guitars are my mainstay. I always loved 335 types but they're so huge on me it looks ridiculous. My 356 will stay with me to the bitter end
I agree with Larry Carlton-no electric matches the versatility of the 335.
This is a wonderful video. I'd visited the Memphis Gibson plant twice before they moved to Nashville. They were great tours. I still have a 1964 ES-335 that my mom bough for me when I was 15. It's a wonderful guitar.
What a thorough, professional and well laid out video.
Thanks, made my morning!
Thanks Tom! Thanks for watching.
Epiphone Sheraton's certainly deserve a place in 335 history. Especially pre 1983 models. Many are superior to Gibsons in their appointments and craftmanship. But the 335 had the pickups that made the tone. I like Larry Carlton's line at one of the Crossroads festivals he played at, "You may remember my guitar".. .. ..
My "Gibson", was an Epiphone Casino, bought in 1967. The interesting efature on that one was it's Cherry finish, that soon faded to a fresh cut watermelon color!
A Kalamazoo Epi! Built on the same line as the 335's of the era. I had to cut a whole section of the vid on those. They need their own video. :)
@@fivewattworld look forward to the USA Epi video!
*looking forward to the USA Epi video
I am pretty sure i read somewhere that Les Paul's go to guitar for gigs and studio was an Epiphone. He said they were built better than Gibson, and had a warmer tone.
So Marvin Berry and the Starlighters had to actually go into the future to get the guitar he loaned to Marty McFly to play in 1955. Thus him playing the futuristic guitar was able to influence Marvin to call Chuck, that's Heavy.
Or, the mere fact that Martin came FROM the future caused a temporal discrepancy that changed some small details in history, e.g. changing the 335's release date to 1954. The same phenomenon made his reality's technology evolve FASTER, so they had flying cars in 2015 -- while we had mass shootings and terrorism.
My daughter gave me the Tony Bacon Les Paul book a few years ago for my birthday. I just sent her a picture of the 335 book. Hint, hint.
Background music for this item: 2112 Oveerture.
Your “a Short History” series are some of the coolest guitar nerd videos around. Keep’em coming.
Peace
I’ve had a cherry red 1983 dot reissue 335 for about 7 years. I’m just now getting the guts to make it my own. It’s been very intimidating. I’ve been afraid of messing it up or breaking it! I love it and am now playing it all the time. Exquisite.
Your guitar and equipment videos are some of the most well researched and best videos on the subject I have ever seen. I do not play well, but I find your narrative to be both thought provoking and engaging on the subject. Thank you for all you do for the community.
The beloved 335 has always been one of my favorites for 40 years, designed by a guy who didn’t play the guitar but listened to players who did.
I think the ES-335 is the most complete, most versatile Gibson guitar.
Another excellent and well researched video. I am guessing that a history of the SG or perhaps the Jazzmaster is next? In any event, I look forward to your next video.
I would LOVE to see the history of the Jazzmaster. It was the "baldheaded stepchild" of electric guitars for so long until "alternative rock" went mainstream in the early '90s.
Awesome history - thanks so much. I'd love to hear what Five Watt World has to say about the new Fender Tone Master solid state amps some day. And if you're ever really bored and want to discuss one of my personal favorite Gibson guitars a video on the ES-137 Custom would be watched by me (and maybe only me, unfortunately).
I spent about an hour playing the new Tonemaster Deluxe when I was at Rick Beato's last week. I was pretty amazed to honest. And at 23lbs, it's 90% of the real Deluxe, and if I was carrying the amp in on a snowy November gig, I'd be ok with that.
9:45 never knew BB King was into that kind of fashion.
Fantastic history. Great to see Ritchie Blackmore with his 335. I heard that his former wife retained it when they divorced. It was sold at auction several years ago for £5,000. A bargain!
Deep Purple in Rock (1969) was recorded with it. Remains my favourite Purple album. Possibly his best studio solo ... from Child in time, was played on it. As a kid I couldn’t believe that a guitar could sound like that or be played like that.
Yes, two of those pics were from the auction coverage. That was one of the many things that I learned on the project.
Child in Time is forever my best Ritchie´s sound.. the very first song we tried to copy .. plugged into a valve radio, in 1972 :)) 12yrs old suckers.. Now, Super Trouper solo was just out of this world .. to this day it is - the number is stupidly overflanged, but it has the edge of the best what DP ever did.. Paicey 😍
Alex Lifeson and of course BB are the reasons I want to try a 335... I must go practice now and stop dreaming of these now
I'm just starting out learning how to play guitar and I'm doing it on a Firefly FF338 and I don't see a need for any other guitar. It's great and I'm really enjoying myself getting around it.
Clapton Clapton Clapton. Not sure why but I was not really a fan of his…although, his playing on While My Guitar Gently Weeps is second to none! That said, I think I’ll side with Eddy Van Halen when he said “Forget that teabag”. Lol 😊
Well done! I've been looking for a straightforward history on this guitar and its many variations. The 336 seems really interesting as a LP lover. Thanks!
Ah! Andy. Thanks man. I've been a fan of your work since the beginning. Thanks for stopping by man.
One of my most favorite guitars I’ve ever owned is a 60s Hagstrom Viking with a Bigsby style tremolo. I loved the 6 on a side tuners, light weight and the “feel”. There’s something very intimate about that body shape. I sold it and later tried to replace the guitar with a ‘56 Gibson 225 but it just wasn’t the same. I was hoping you’d cover the Epiphone Dot, a great budget version of the 335. Otherwise, great video as always Keith.
These are the most comprehensive guitar history videos I have seen yet. No details are left out. I had a Green Univox 335. It was stunning.
Did I not see the Les Paul log 10 years earlier the same Idea solid down the front and hollow wings I think Les gets ripped off by Ted all the way down the line
I always think of Alvin Lee at Woodstock doing I'm going home, what a great tone! I don't think he ever used another guitar.
I like the Full Size 335. I would never get a Player Reissue as I do not care who played the guitar and would never buy a guitar because so and so played one. I also would not waste my money on a New Guitar with a Faded or Relic finish. They look Horrible and cost more. I do have a Korean made Epiphone Dot reissue.
Interesting. I own two Telecasters, two Les Paul’s. And have recently built two Stratocaster “parts casters”
Currently I am in the market for a Jazzmaster and a 335 type of guitar.
It’s interesting, as over the years as despite wanting a 335 semi-hollow guitar for many years I never did manage to add one to the collection at any point...
I've been playing over 50 years. In the mid 70's a friend lent me his 355 for a high-school gig I had. I've wanted one ever since and a few years ago - dream came true. I'm the proud owner of a 2018 Figured Natural Memphis-made 335. It is a gift from God.
Fascinating... would have been interesting to hear how the similar Epiphone models fit in too..
I have a 335 'Epiphone' dot limited edition (custom shop) with Gibson classic '57 pickups, it works for me. And a Taylor acoustic , that's all for now.
Did anyone see Alex Lifeson tear it up at the pink pop festivals in the 70's, he does La Villa Strangiato on a 335, wow, it's on you tube go check it out, it's jaw dropping, all 3 of them smash it.
Brings me back to the days when I lusted for a 335. Larry Carlton's playing on Royal Scam and his solo album just blew me away. I had to have a 335. Unfortunately, this was back in the days before the interweb, so my choices were very limited. My local guitar store (where I had bought all of my previous instruments) didn't have any used 335's at the time. But they did have a 345. There was a lot I didn't love about that guitar: the walnut finish, the stereo wiring, that weird six position switch, the trapeze tailpiece, the lack of a full interior solid block. But it played like a dream, and I loved those humbuckers. I bought it anyway. I wound up liking, but not loving it. I had a stop tailpiece installed, but that didn't make it indispensable to me. I wound up selling it probably a year or two later.
I love how I've always heard it called "semi-hollow", but you call it "semi-solid"... I guess you're a glass half-full kinda guy (see what I did there? :P)
Amazing vids, btw.
Ha! No that’s the term they used at Gibson in the late ‘50’s introduction, so I carried it into the video.
@@fivewattworld I found that an interesting distinction as well. I wonder if it was to sort of help people understand that even though it was an electric spanish style, it wasn't fully hollow, like a regular spanish style. It was on it's way to being more like a solid body, so "semi-solid?" Alternatively, nowadays, we think of electrics as primarily solid-body, so semi-hollow denotes the difference from the perceived "standard." I have no idea, though. I'm just guessing. :)