Gibson Flying V
The Gibson Flying V is an electric guitar model that was originally introduced by Gibson in 1958. The Flying V offered a brand new, radical, "futuristic" body design, much like its siblings: the Explorer, which was released the same year, and the Moderne, which was designed in 1957 but not released until 1982. The initial run of guitars used a distinctive wood of the Limba tree marketed by Gibson under the trade name "korina"; later models used more conventional woods.
Perhaps too radical for its time, the initial run of Flying V guitars was not very successful and fewer than 100 were manufactured and sold. Some players, such as blues guitarist Albert King and rock guitarists Lonnie Mack and Dave Davies, gravitated towards the unique design and helped popularize the model years after it had left production. After renewed popularity led to increased demand, Gibson manufactured a small number of Flying V guitars in 1963 from leftover parts from the original run, and the guitar reentered regular production in 1967 and has been reissued numerous times since then. A number of variant models, including the redesigned Flying V2 from 1979 to 1982, and an unusual Reverse Flying V from 2007 to 2008, have been released as well.
Quotes about the Gibson Flying V
[edit]- If there ever was a guitar that was way ahead of its time, it must be the Gibson Flying V. Its iconic angular V shape marked the brand’s forward-thinking, and that was proven by the fact that this model was first released in 1958, but it was only in the ‘60s and ‘70s that it got the attention it deserved. This guitar was completely different from any other guitar on the market, which in time turned from a weakness into its greatest strength.
- Donna Maurer of Mixdown (October 4, 2024)
- The Flying V followed a similar trajectory as its angular brethren [the Explorer and Moderne]. While not popular at first, the Flying V would find a new home at the heavier, more experimental end of the music spectrum – and well, the rest is history. [...] Much like the SG, the Flying V has a robust mid-range bark that makes it ideal for rockers looking to make an impact, while the neck pickup delivers a creamy tone that is sure to make your lead lines sing.
- Daryl Robertson of Guitar World (April 5, 2023)
- The V shape boosted the instrument’s sustain and resonance, making it a strong choice for any lead rock and metal guitarist. The best proof of quality is the fact that the Gibson Flying V was the favourite guitar of Michael Schenker, Jimi Hendrix, and Albert King, to name a few.
- Donna Maurer of Mixdown (October 4, 2024)
