The Epiphone Guitar: John Lennon's Significant Choice
John Lennon, widely regarded as one of the most influential guitarists in the history of rock music, often experimented with a variety of guitars throughout his career. A notable instance of his preference for certain guitars is the Epiphone, particularly the Epiphone Casino. This article explores the significance of Lennon's choice of the Epiphone, tracing its journey from his early days to the prominence seen in the latest Get Back series on Disney.
John Lennon's Iconic Guitars
Throughout his career, John Lennon played a range of guitars, each with a unique character. He was well-known for his association with the Rickenbacker, which earned him the title of the Rickenbacker King. However, during his later years, Lennon's affection for the Epiphone became evident. In the latest episode of Disney's Get Back series, which explores the recording sessions leading up to The Beatles' iconic album The White Album, Lennon is seen playing a white Epiphone guitar, described as his 'surely coming back to the sessions the following day because he was leaving his favorite guitar — the Epiphone.'
The Epiphone Casino: A Special Choice
Lennon's fondness for the Epiphone Casino is particularly noteworthy. He often played the Casino, which he modified by scraping off all the paint. The Epiphone Casino and Gibson ES-330 are near twins, both featuring true thin hollow bodies and single coil P-90 style pickups, much like Gibson P-90’s. However, there are some distinctive differences worth noting. Typically, Gibson P-90’s were covered in black plastic, whereas the early Casino’s covers were nickel plated. This modification allowed Lennon to have a guitar that was both distinctly his own and closely resembled the legendary Gibson.
The Manufacturing Background: Equal Workmanship and Materials
During the time Lennon was playing the Epiphone Casino, both Gibson and Epiphone guitars were manufactured in the Gibson Parsons Street Factory in Kalamazoo. As a result, they shared similar workmanship and materials, making the comparison between the two models extremely interesting.
Legacy and Impact
The Epiphone Casino remains a highly sought-after guitar, appreciated not only for its sound but also for its historical significance. Lennon's preference for this model in his later years adds a personal touch to its legacy. The Gibson Parsons Street Factory in Kalamazoo, known for producing high-quality guitars, played a significant role in ensuring that both Gibson and Epiphone guitars were of similar quality and craftsmanship.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Epiphone has a special place in the history of John Lennon's guitar playing. From his early days with the Rickenbacker to his later preference for the Epiphone Casino, Lennon's guitar choices reflect his personal style and the evolution of his music. The re-emergence of the Epiphone in the Get Back series serves as a wonderful tribute to this significant period in Lennon's career and the impact that Epiphone guitars had on his life and work.
Keywords: John Lennon, Epiphone, Gibson ES-330, Rickenbacker, Get Back series