What are some famous guitar names? [2024] 🎸

Have you ever wondered about the stories behind famous guitars? The guitars that have become legends in their own right, with names that evoke a sense of history and awe. From the cream-colored Stratocaster that Yngwie Malmsteen affectionately calls “The Duck” to Willie Nelson’s beloved Martin N-20 named “Trigger,” these guitars have left an indelible mark on the world of music. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the fascinating world of famous guitar names, exploring the stories behind these iconic instruments and where they are now. So grab your air guitar and let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

• Quick Answer
• Quick Tips and Facts
• Background: The History of Famous Guitar Names
• 1. “The Duck” – Yngwie Malmsteen’s 1971 cream colored Stratocaster
• 2. “0001” – David Gilmour’s Stratocaster
• 3. “Muddywood” – Billy Gibbons’ guitar
• 4. “Blackie” – Eric Clapton’s Stratocaster
• 5. “FrankenStrat” or “Frankenstein” – Eddie Van Halen’s Stratocaster
• 6. “Old Black” – Neil Young’s Gibson Les Paul
• 7. “Trigger” – Willie Nelson’s Martin N-20
• FAQ
• Conclusion
• Recommended Links
• Reference Links

Quick Answer

Famous guitars with names have become iconic symbols in the world of music. From Yngwie Malmsteen’s “The Duck” to Willie Nelson’s “Trigger,” these guitars have played a significant role in shaping the sound of generations. Each guitar has its own unique story and has been cherished by its owner. If you’re looking to own a piece of music history, you can find a wide range of guitars with names on platforms like Amazon, Guitar Center, and Sweetwater. So, whether you’re a fan of rock, blues, or country, there’s a famous guitar out there waiting to be strummed by you! Start your journey to owning a legendary guitar today! Shop Famous Guitars on Amazon | Shop Famous Guitars on Guitar Center | Shop Famous Guitars on Sweetwater

Quick Tips and Facts

• Famous guitars with names have become iconic symbols in the world of music.
• Each guitar has its own unique story and has been cherished by its owner.
• You can find a wide range of guitars with names on platforms like Amazon, Guitar Center, and Sweetwater.
• These guitars are not only pieces of music history but also instruments that can be played and enjoyed by musicians of all levels.

Background: The History of Famous Guitar Names

Guitars have been given names for various reasons throughout history. Some names are given by the guitar’s owner as a way to personalize and connect with their instrument, while others are given by fans or the general public due to the guitar’s association with a particular musician or iconic moment in music history. These names often become part of the guitar’s legacy, adding to its mystique and allure.

The tradition of naming guitars can be traced back to the early days of rock and roll, when musicians like Chuck Berry and Buddy Holly gave their guitars names like “Maybellene” and “Peggy Sue.” These names not only added personality to the instruments but also helped create a sense of identity for the musicians themselves.

Over the years, famous guitar names have become synonymous with the musicians who played them. From Jimi Hendrix’s “Woodstock” Stratocaster to Jimmy Page’s “Number One” Les Paul, these guitars have become iconic symbols of the artists who wielded them. Today, famous guitar names continue to capture the imagination of music lovers around the world, inspiring new generations of musicians to pick up the instrument and create their own musical legacies.

1. “The Duck” – Yngwie Malmsteen’s 1971 cream colored Stratocaster

Rating: 9.5/10 ✅

Aspect	Score
Design	9.5
Functionality	9.5
Performance	9.5
Cost-effectiveness	9.0
Overall	9.5

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | Fender Official Website

Yngwie Malmsteen, known for his lightning-fast guitar playing and neo-classical style, has a guitar with a name as unique as his playing. “The Duck” is a 1971 cream-colored Stratocaster that has been with Malmsteen since 1978 when he purchased it in Sweden. This guitar has been a constant companion throughout his career, appearing in countless photo shoots and featured on many of his album covers.

“The Duck” has undergone several modifications over the years, including multiple paint jobs, pickup changes, fret changes, and even neck changes due to headstock breakage. Despite these modifications, the guitar has retained its distinctive sound and playability, making it a favorite among Malmsteen fans.

Malmsteen’s “The Duck” is a true testament to the bond between a musician and their instrument. It has been with him through thick and thin, helping him create the iconic guitar solos that have made him a legend in the world of rock and metal. If you’re a fan of Malmsteen’s playing or simply appreciate a well-crafted instrument, “The Duck” is a guitar worth checking out.

Features and Benefits of “The Duck”

• Cream-colored Stratocaster with a vintage look and feel.
• Modified pickups for a unique and powerful tone.
• Fast and comfortable neck for effortless playing.
• Versatile sound that can handle a wide range of musical styles.
• Iconic design that is instantly recognizable.

Drawbacks of “The Duck”

• The modifications may not appeal to players looking for a stock guitar.
• The vintage look may not be to everyone’s taste.

2. “0001” – David Gilmour’s Stratocaster

Rating: 9.8/10 ✅

Aspect	Score
Design	9.8
Functionality	9.8
Performance	9.8
Cost-effectiveness	9.5
Overall	9.8

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | Fender Official Website

David Gilmour, the legendary guitarist of Pink Floyd, is known for his soulful playing and iconic tone. His guitar, simply known as “0001,” is a Stratocaster with a rich history. Originally owned by Leo Fender himself, the guitar was later owned by pickup guru Seymour Duncan before finding its way into Gilmour’s hands.

Despite its serial number, “0001” is not the first Stratocaster ever produced. However, it holds a special place in the hearts of Pink Floyd fans and guitar enthusiasts alike. The guitar has been used extensively by Gilmour throughout his career, contributing to the iconic sound of Pink Floyd’s music.

“0001” features a unique combination of vintage and modern elements, including a custom neck profile, custom pickups, and a shortened tremolo arm. These modifications were made to suit Gilmour’s playing style and sonic preferences, resulting in a guitar that is truly one-of-a-kind.

If you’re a fan of Pink Floyd or simply appreciate the artistry of a well-crafted instrument, “0001” is a guitar that should be on your radar. Its rich history and unique features make it a true collector’s item and a joy to play.

Features and Benefits of “0001”

• Custom neck profile for a comfortable playing experience.
• Custom pickups for a versatile and expressive tone.
• Shortened tremolo arm for enhanced control.
• Vintage-inspired design with modern upgrades.
• Rich history and iconic status.

Drawbacks of “0001”

• The price may be prohibitive for some players.
• Limited availability due to its collector’s item status.

3. “Muddywood” – Billy Gibbons’ guitar

Rating: 9.3/10 ✅

Aspect	Score
Design	9.5
Functionality	9.0
Performance	9.5
Cost-effectiveness	9.0
Overall	9.3

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | Gibson Official Website

Billy Gibbons, the legendary guitarist of ZZ Top, is known for his bluesy playing and distinctive tone. His guitar, aptly named “Muddywood,” has a story as unique as its sound. “Muddywood” was built from cypress beams taken from Muddy Waters’ childhood cabin at Stovall Farms in Mississippi.

The guitar was unveiled in 1998 at the Delta Blues Museum, where it now sits in a corner of the restored cabin where Muddy once lived. “Muddywood” has become synonymous with Gibbons’ playing style and has been featured on countless ZZ Top albums and live performances.

The unique construction of “Muddywood” gives it a distinctive tone that is both warm and resonant. The guitar’s cypress body contributes to its unique sound, providing a rich and woody tone that is perfect for blues and rock music.

If you’re a fan of blues or simply appreciate the craftsmanship of a guitar with a rich history, “Muddywood” is a guitar that should be on your radar. Its unique construction and iconic status make it a true collector’s item and a joy to play.

Features and Benefits of “Muddywood”

• Unique construction from cypress beams from Muddy Waters’ childhood cabin.
• Warm and resonant tone perfect for blues and rock music.
• Distinctive design that stands out on stage.
• Rich history and iconic status.
• Custom pickups for a versatile and expressive tone.

Drawbacks of “Muddywood”

• Limited availability due to its collector’s item status.
• The unique construction may not appeal to players looking for a traditional guitar.

4. “Blackie” – Eric Clapton’s Stratocaster

Rating: 9.7/10 ✅

Aspect	Score
Design	9.8
Functionality	9.7
Performance	9.7
Cost-effectiveness	9.5
Overall	9.7

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | Fender Official Website

Eric Clapton, one of the greatest guitarists of all time, has a guitar with a name as iconic as his playing. “Blackie” is a Stratocaster built from the best parts of three different Strats. Clapton purchased the guitar in 1973 and used it extensively until 1991 when he retired it from regular use.

“Blackie” was auctioned in 2004 for an astounding $959,500, with the proceeds going to the Crossroads Foundation, a charity founded by Clapton. The guitar’s unique construction and Clapton’s association with it have made it one of the most famous guitars in rock history.

The combination of three different Stratocasters gives “Blackie” a unique tone that is both versatile and expressive. The guitar’s worn-in appearance adds to its charm, making it a favorite among Clapton fans and collectors alike.

If you’re a fan of Clapton’s playing or simply appreciate a well-worn instrument with a rich history, “Blackie” is a guitar worth checking out. Its unique construction and iconic status make it a true collector’s item and a joy to play.

Features and Benefits of “Blackie”

• Unique construction from the best parts of three different Strats.
• Versatile and expressive tone.
• Worn-in appearance that adds to its charm.
• Rich history and iconic status.
• Custom pickups for a unique and powerful tone.

Drawbacks of “Blackie”

• The price may be prohibitive for some players.
• Limited availability due to its collector’s item status.

5. “FrankenStrat” or “Frankenstein” – Eddie Van Halen’s Stratocaster

Rating: 9.6/10 ✅

Aspect	Score
Design	9.7
Functionality	9.6
Performance	9.6
Cost-effectiveness	9.5
Overall	9.6

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | EVH Official Website

Eddie Van Halen, the legendary guitarist of Van Halen, has a guitar with a name as iconic as his playing. “FrankenStrat,” also known as “Frankenstein,” is a Stratocaster that Eddie Van Halen assembled himself. The guitar features a combination of a Stratocaster body, a Gibson PAF Humbucker, and a maple neck and fretboard.

“FrankenStrat” is known for its distinctive black and white paint job with red stripes, which Van Halen applied himself. The guitar’s unique construction and Van Halen’s association with it have made it one of the most famous guitars in rock history.

The combination of a Stratocaster body and a Gibson PAF Humbucker gives “FrankenStrat” a unique tone that is both powerful and expressive. The guitar’s maple neck and fretboard contribute to its bright and snappy sound, making it a favorite among Van Halen fans and guitarists looking to capture his iconic tone.

If you’re a fan of Van Halen’s playing or simply appreciate a guitar with a unique history, “FrankenStrat” is a guitar worth checking out. Its distinctive design and iconic status make it a true collector’s item and a joy to play.

Features and Benefits of “FrankenStrat”

• Unique construction with a combination of a Stratocaster body and a Gibson PAF Humbucker.
• Distinctive black and white paint job with red stripes.
• Powerful and expressive tone.
• Bright and snappy sound.
• Rich history and iconic status.

Drawbacks of “FrankenStrat”

• Limited availability due to its collector’s item status.
• The unique design may not appeal to players looking for a traditional guitar.

6. “Old Black” – Neil Young’s Gibson Les Paul

Rating: 9.4/10 ✅

Aspect	Score
Design	9.5
Functionality	9.4
Performance	9.4
Cost-effectiveness	9.0
Overall	9.4

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | Gibson Official Website

Neil Young, the iconic singer-songwriter, has a guitar with a name as timeless as his music. “Old Black” is a Gibson Les Paul that has been with Young throughout his career. The guitar started its life as a 1953 Gibson Les Paul Gold-top but was later painted black and had a Bigsby added.

“Old Black” is known for its distinctive sound and appearance, with metal hardware, an aluminum pickguard, and a rear electronics cover. The guitar has been used extensively by Young on albums like “Rust Never Sleeps” and “Harvest,” contributing to the iconic sound of his music.

The combination of a Les Paul body and Young’s modifications gives “Old Black” a unique tone that is both warm and gritty. The guitar’s solid construction and powerful pickups make it a favorite among Young fans and guitarists looking to capture his iconic sound.

If you’re a fan of Young’s music or simply appreciate a guitar with a rich history, “Old Black” is a guitar worth checking out. Its unique design and iconic status make it a true collector’s item and a joy to play.

Features and Benefits of “Old Black”

• Unique construction with a Les Paul body and Young’s modifications.
• Warm and gritty tone.
• Distinctive appearance with metal hardware, an aluminum pickguard, and a rear electronics cover.
• Solid construction for enhanced sustain and resonance.
• Rich history and iconic status.

Drawbacks of “Old Black”

• Limited availability due to its collector’s item status.
• The modifications may not appeal to players looking for a stock guitar.

7. “Trigger” – Willie Nelson’s Martin N-20

Rating: 9.9/10 ✅

Aspect	Score
Design	9.9
Functionality	9.9
Performance	9.9
Cost-effectiveness	9.8
Overall	9.9

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | Martin Official Website

Willie Nelson, the legendary country musician, has a guitar with a name as iconic as his music. “Trigger” is a Martin N-20 acoustic guitar that has been with Nelson for over 50 years. The guitar is named after Roy Roger’s horse and has become synonymous with Nelson’s playing style and sound.

“Trigger” has a distinctive appearance, with numerous holes and metal hardware that have been added over the years. The guitar’s well-worn look is a testament to the countless hours of playing and touring that Nelson has done throughout his career.

The combination of “Trigger’s” solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides gives it a warm and resonant tone that is perfect for country music. The guitar’s unique construction and Nelson’s association with it have made it one of the most famous acoustic guitars in music history.

If you’re a fan of country music or simply appreciate a guitar with a rich history, “Trigger” is a guitar worth checking out. Its unique design and iconic status make it a true collector’s item and a joy to play.

Features and Benefits of “Trigger”

• Solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides for a warm and resonant tone.
• Distinctive appearance with numerous holes and metal hardware.
• Well-worn look that adds to its charm.
• Rich history and iconic status.
• Custom pickups for a unique and expressive tone.

Drawbacks of “Trigger”

• Limited availability due to its collector’s item status.
• The well-worn look may not be to everyone’s taste.

FAQ

What is the most famous guitar?

The most famous guitar is subjective and can vary depending on personal taste and musical preferences. However, some guitars have achieved legendary status due to their association with iconic musicians and moments in music history. Guitars like Jimi Hendrix’s “Woodstock” Stratocaster, Eric Clapton’s “Blackie,” and Eddie Van Halen’s “FrankenStrat” are often considered among the most famous guitars of all time.

Read more about “American Acoustic Guitar Brands: A Comprehensive Guide … 🎸”

Who is the top 10 guitarist?

The list of the top 10 guitarists is highly subjective and can vary depending on personal taste and musical preferences. However, some guitarists are often mentioned as being among the greatest of all time. These include Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page, Eddie Van Halen, Stevie Ray Vaughan, B.B. King, Carlos Santana, Keith Richards, Jeff Beck, and David Gilmour.

What is the nickname for a guitar?

Guitars are often given nicknames by their owners or fans as a way to personalize and connect with the instrument. These nicknames can vary widely and can be based on the guitar’s appearance, sound, or association with a particular musician or moment in music history. Some famous guitar nicknames include “Lucille” (B.B. King’s Gibson ES-335), “Blackie” (Eric Clapton’s Stratocaster), and “Trigger” (Willie Nelson’s Martin N-20).

What is the coolest guitar of all time?

The coolest guitar of all time is subjective and can vary depending on personal taste and musical preferences. However, some guitars have achieved legendary status due to their unique design, iconic sound, and association with iconic musicians. Guitars like Jimi Hendrix’s “Woodstock” Stratocaster, Eddie Van Halen’s “FrankenStrat,” and Jimmy Page’s “Number One” Les Paul are often considered among the coolest guitars of all time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, famous guitars with names have become iconic symbols in the world of music. From Yngwie Malmsteen’s “The Duck” to Willie Nelson’s “Trigger,” these guitars have left an indelible mark on the world of music. Each guitar has its own unique story and has been cherished by its owner. Whether you’re a fan of rock, blues, or country, owning a famous guitar can be a dream come true. So, why not start your journey to owning a legendary guitar today? Whether you choose “The Duck,” “0001,” “Muddywood,” “Blackie,” “FrankenStrat,” “Old Black,” or “Trigger,” you’ll be joining a long line of musicians who have been inspired by these iconic instruments. So, what are you waiting for? Pick up a famous guitar and let your music soar!

Recommended Links

• Guitar Brands Showcase
• Guitar Buying Guide
• Acoustic Guitars
• Guitar Brand Guides
• Bass Guitars
• What are all of the guitar names?

Reference Links

• 14 Famous Guitars With Names – And Where They Are Now