Vic DaPra, David Plues

ES Believers Plus

Introduced by Gibson in the 1930s, the ES (Electric Spanish) series would transform the role of the guitar in the world of the big bands and jazz groups. With amplification, the guitarist could solo along with the horn sections and mix with the percussion. Gibson featured many prominent guitarists naming them “Gibson Allstars.” An inspired marketing tool which helped Gibson become a world-leading manufacturer. The ES-5, Super 400s, artist models and hugely popular ES-175 were brand leaders. The 175 is the longest-running model still in production. It was the thin line series which caught the attention of the blues and rock world who appreciated the power and tone they produced. The classic “thin line” design was hugely popular as an alternative to the solid body type offering the ability to control feedback in a harmonic way. The ES series is an art form in its own right and are played and collected by guitar aficionados from all parts of the world.