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 certainly one of the rock guitars that will go down in history as being one of the most unique designs ever. Originally built and launched by the guitar company back in 1958 and then relaunched in 1967, the mahogany bodied flying V took the world of rock by storm.
The models that were created on and around 1967 are considered to be the 'classic' design and are the most collectible amongst vintage guitar collectors. This older design is known as the 'V Factor" rather than the flying V. Gibson does still make the guitar under the name of 'Tribal V' and they also make a flying V bass guitar too!
The V has been used by so many different rock gods in it's time that it is hard to think of just one performer who stands out from the crowd. The Foo Fighters, ZZ Top, Marc Bolan and T-Rex used the flying V design and Jimi Hendrix loved the model so much he even worked with the Gibson people to make his own signature model, designing and making the paisley image that adorns the guitar himself.
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 1960's and early 1970's, when the V was at the height of it's popularity.
The Tribal V is bang up to date with all of the latest technology and components. It features a modern tribal tattoo graphic and is usually sold in plain white with chrome components.
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 Flying V certainly has made it's mark on the ethos and mythology of rock music and guitar based rock. It's image is immediately recognizable and the Gibson quality, design and perfection make the guitar one of the best rock guitars ever.
Guitar players such as Hendrix and bands like Led Zeppelin took the art of rock guitar to new, amazing heights using top class equipment from makers and manufacturers like Gibson, Ibanez and Fender. Where would music be today without these innovators and designers. |
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