Al Gunn Luthier

03/10/2025

Geoff Emerick: A Revolutionary Engineer Who Redefined Recording
Geoff Emerick was one of the most innovative and influential recording engineers in music history. His work with the Beatles, particularly on Revolver (1966), Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band (1967), and Abbey Road (1969), forever changed the way albums were recorded. His pioneering use of studio techniques—such as close-miking Ringo Starr’s drums, running John Lennon’s vocals through a Leslie speaker, and experimenting with tape loops and unconventional microphone placement—helped define the sonic character of the Beatles’ later albums. Producer George Martin credited him with introducing fresh, daring ideas that expanded the boundaries of what was possible in the recording studio.

Emerick’s career began at EMI’s Abbey Road Studios when he was just 16, working as an assistant engineer. He was present at the Beatles’ first recording session with Ringo Starr in 1962 and soon became involved in shaping the sound of their early hits. By the age of 20, he was promoted to chief engineer, stepping in to record Revolver, an album that marked a dramatic shift in studio experimentation. From the psychedelic swirls of Tomorrow Never Knows to the brass-heavy Got to Get You into My Life, Emerick played a key role in bringing the band’s ambitious ideas to life.

Following his work on Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, which won him his first Grammy Award, Emerick continued to break new ground with the Beatles. He later returned for Abbey Road, where his engineering work once again earned a Grammy.

After the Beatles’ break-up, Emerick remained closely associated with Paul McCartney, engineering Band on the Run (1973), London Town (1978), Tug of War (1982), and Flaming Pie (1997). His work on Band on the Run won him another Grammy, further solidifying his reputation. His engineering expertise also contributed to albums by Elvis Costello (Imperial Bedroom), the Zombies (Odessey and Oracle), Robin Trower (Bridge of Sighs), and numerous others.

Beyond the Beatles and McCartney, Emerick’s fingerprints are found across an array of legendary recordings, from Supertramp to Jeff Beck, and his influence resonates in the work of countless producers and engineers. His innovative approach to sound shaped modern recording techniques, and his fearless willingness to push boundaries set new standards in music production.

Geoff Emerick passed away in Los Angeles in 2018 at the age of 72, leaving behind an unparalleled legacy that continues to inspire musicians and engineers to this day.

02/23/2025

Jimmy Page poses with his 1959 " Dragon" Fender Telecaster which was gifted to him by the late Jeff Beck when he joined The Yardbirds in 1966.

Jimmy Page's 1959 Dragon Telecaster is a legendary guitar with a fascinating history. The guitar was originally owned by Jeff Beck, who used it as a backup instrument during his time with the Yardbirds. In 1966, Beck gifted the Telecaster to Page as a token of appreciation for helping him throughout his early career.

When Page first received the guitar, it had a regular white finish. In 1967, he added eight circular mirrors to the body, inspired by Syd Barrett of Pink Floyd, who had a similar setup on his Fender Esquire. Later, Page decided to strip the finish completely and repaint the guitar himself. He created the iconic "Dragon" design, featuring a clear lacquer with a red and black dragon decal. He also added a custom-made clear plastic pickguard with reflective film underneath.

The Dragon Telecaster became Page's main instrument during his time with the Yardbirds and was prominently used on their album "Little Games" released in 1967. He continued to use the guitar during the early years of Led Zeppelin, including on their debut album "Led Zeppelin I".

In 1969, a friend of Page's stripped the guitar back, removing the dragon paint job and damaging much of the Telecaster. Despite this, Page kept the guitar and recently worked with a graphic designer to restore and repaint it. The restored Dragon Telecaster was revealed for the first time in 50 years in 2019.

The Dragon Telecaster holds a special place in rock history, symbolizing Page's early career and his transition from the Yardbirds to Led Zeppelin.

02/16/2025

10/25/2024

In 1963, George Harrison of The Beatles cemented his place in the annals of music history, not just through his guitar skills, but also by popularizing the iconic Gretsch Country Gentleman guitars. That year, Harrison's relationship with his instruments became legendary, showcasing his virtuosity as a guitarist and his keen eye for high-quality instruments. Harrison’s choice of guitar during The Beatles’ rise to fame was the Gretsch Country Gentleman, an electric guitar that became an emblem of his unique sound and musical identity.

The year 1963 was pivotal for The Beatles, as they embarked on a series of live performances, TV appearances, and studio recordings that would catapult them to international stardom. As the "quiet Beatle," Harrison was often seen playing one of his two Gretsch Country Gentleman guitars during these historic moments. Both guitars, made by Gretsch and modeled after the famous Country Gentleman design by Chet Atkins, were an essential part of Harrison’s sound. The deep, rich tones of these guitars paired perfectly with The Beatles’ evolving musical style, blending pop, rock, and hints of country influence.

Harrison first acquired a Gretsch Country Gentleman in early 1963, a model known for its unique body shape, arched top, and hollow construction, designed by guitar virtuoso Chet Atkins. The guitar’s warm tone, coupled with its sleek, stylish look, made it a favorite among guitarists in the rock and country genres. Harrison's second Gretsch, acquired later that same year, was nearly identical to the first, but he preferred it because of its more responsive sound.

Throughout 1963, Harrison wielded his Gretsch guitars in some of The Beatles' most memorable live performances. One notable occasion was their performance on the British TV show Ready Steady Go! in October. The Country Gentleman guitar, prominently featured during the performance, became almost as iconic as the band members themselves. Harrison's careful playing, paired with the guitar's distinctive sound, helped shape the sonic landscape of songs like “She Loves You” and “I Want to Hold Your Hand,” two tracks that defined the British Invasion.

However, the history of these guitars is also marked by loss. In December 1963, Harrison’s first Gretsch Country Gentleman suffered damage during The Beatles' tour in Bournemouth. A stage mishap led to the guitar being crushed, an unfortunate incident that would be immortalized in music history. Harrison's attachment to the guitar was evident, as he continued to use the second one during subsequent Beatles tours and recordings.

Harrison’s use of the Gretsch Country Gentleman guitars was a testament to his craftsmanship and dedication to achieving the perfect sound. These guitars contributed to the distinctive sound of early Beatles’ records, helping the band stand out in a crowded music scene. As The Beatles began their global conquest in 1963, the Gretsch guitars became symbolic of Harrison’s musical journey—a blend of precision, style, and innovation.

Today, the Gretsch Country Gentleman is forever linked with George Harrison’s legacy. His ability to craft intricate, melodic lines using the instrument was a key factor in shaping The Beatles’ early sound and influencing countless musicians in the years to come. Harrison’s Gretsch guitars were more than just instruments; they were a defining element of an era in music history.

06/01/2024

The Dolls' ex-manager allegedly took the guitar as payment for his management services, later giving it to The S*x Pistols' Steve Jones

04/15/2024

How many guitarists have had a headstock snap on their Gibsons after having it head dive?

03/29/2024