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Introduction
The Gibson SG is one of the most iconic guitars in history, known for its sleek design and powerful sound. But have you ever wondered where the name 'SG' came from? In this article, we'll explore the history behind the original name of the Gibson SG, including its design and how it differs from the Les Paul.
The Design of the Gibson SG
The Gibson SG was first introduced in 1961 as a replacement for the Les Paul, which had been experiencing declining sales. The new design featured a thinner, lighter body and a double-cutaway design, making it easier to play in the upper frets. The SG also had a new type of bridge and tailpiece, which improved sustain and tuning stability.
The Name 'SG'
So where did the name 'SG' come from? The original name for the guitar was actually the 'Les Paul SG', as it was intended to be a new version of the Les Paul. However, Les Paul himself was not a fan of the new design and asked that his name be removed from the guitar. Gibson complied, and the guitar was renamed simply the 'SG'.
What Does 'SG' Stand For?
Despite the name change, many people still wonder what 'SG' stands for. Some have speculated that it stands for 'Solid Guitar', as the SG was one of the first solid-body guitars to be produced by Gibson. Others have suggested that it stands for 'Standard Guitar', as the SG was intended to be a new standard for Gibson's electric guitars. However, the true meaning of 'SG' remains a mystery.
Evolution of the SG Name
Over the years, the name 'SG' has taken on different meanings for different people. Some have referred to it as the 'Solid Guitar', while others have called it the 'Special Guitar' or the 'Standard Guitar'. Gibson has also used different variations of the name over the years, such as the 'SG Standard' and the 'SG Special'.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the original name of the Gibson SG was the 'Les Paul SG', but it was changed to simply the 'SG' after Les Paul requested that his name be removed from the guitar. The true meaning of 'SG' remains a mystery, but it has become an iconic name in the world of guitar. Whether you call it the 'Solid Guitar', the 'Special Guitar', or the 'Standard Guitar', there's no denying the impact that the Gibson SG has had on music history.
