Jazz Electric Guitars

Jazz Guitars

The L5 is said to be the first jazz guitar and was introduced by Gibson in 1923. The L5 distinguished itself from classical acoustic guitars by its arched top that was inspired by traditional violin making. The development of the jazz guitar paved the way for the guitar for becoming a more central part within a band. This was promoted even further by the invention of the electromagnetic pickup in the 1930ies. One of the jazz guitar pioneers was Charlie Christian, who played with Benny Goodman and who boosted the status of the guitar as an instrument for soloistic and melodic approaches.

Up until today the jazz guitar is mostly used in jazz music but feels at home in blues music, too. Guitar players like George Benson, Jim Hall, Pat Metheny, Joe Pass or Wes Montgomery are just a few examples for artists that are associated with these kinds of instruments.

The jazz guitar is built as a semi acoustic instrument and it usually is made of maple or spruce. The style of jazz guitars is characterized by their body design - which is reminiscent to that of a woman - and their f-holes that are a heritage from classical string instruments. The pickups that are used mostly are humbuckers but P90s are established as well. Jazz guitars provide a clear and percussive sound with superb string separation.