The Resurgence of D’Angelico Guitars
In the 1950s and 60s, D’Angelico guitars were a staple in the jazz and blues scene, with legendary musicians like Wes Montgomery and Django Reinhardt using them to create iconic sounds. However, the company went into decline, and by the 1980s, it had largely disappeared from the music scene.
What Led to the Resurgence? Several factors contributed to the resurgence of D’Angelico guitars in 2011. The company’s founder, John D’Angelico, had a vision for creating high-quality, handcrafted instruments that would appeal to musicians who valued tone and playability. The company’s return to the market was also driven by the growing demand for vintage and retro-style guitars. Key factors that contributed to the resurgence of D’Angelico guitars include:
The Korean-Made Models
In 2011, D’Angelico guitars made a comeback with a range of Korean-made models.
D’Angelico guitars are truly exceptional instruments that deserve to be played and appreciated by anyone who picks one up.
The History of D’Angelico Guitars
D’Angelico guitars have been around since 1928, when the company was founded by Antonio D’Angelico. The company started out as a small workshop in New York City, where Antonio and his brother, Mario, would handcraft guitars for local musicians. Over the years, the company grew and evolved, but it never lost its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Some of the most iconic D’Angelico guitars include the “Gibson ES-150” and the “D’Angelico EXL-1”. These guitars were popularized by legendary musicians such as Billie Holiday and Charlie Christian.
The Sound and Playability of D’Angelico Guitars
D’Angelico guitars are known for their rich, warm, and balanced sound. They have a unique tone that is both vintage and modern at the same time. The guitars are also incredibly playable, with a smooth and responsive neck that makes it easy to navigate the fretboard. Some of the key features that contribute to the sound and playability of D’Angelico guitars include: + A mahogany neck and body + A set of high-quality, hand-wound pickups + A precision-cut bridge and tailpiece + A smooth, ebony fretboard
The Craftsmanship and Attention to Detail
D’Angelico guitars are truly exceptional instruments that are built to last.
D’Angelico’s early work was heavily influenced by the Italian Renaissance style, which emphasized the use of high-quality tonewoods and intricate craftsmanship.
The Birth of a Legend
In the 1930s, John D’Angelico began to develop his own unique sound and style, which would eventually become synonymous with the iconic D’Angelico guitar.
D’Angelico Guitars’ commitment to quality and craftsmanship has endured for generations, with the company continuing to innovate and push the boundaries of guitar design.
The Early Years: A Legacy of Excellence
In the 1930s, D’Angelico Guitars was founded by William D’Angelico, a skilled luthier with a passion for creating exceptional instruments. The company’s early success was largely due to its focus on quality and attention to detail. D’Angelico’s commitment to using only the finest materials and traditional craftsmanship techniques helped establish the brand as a leader in the industry. Key characteristics of D’Angelico Guitars’ early years: + Focus on quality and attention to detail + Use of finest materials + Traditional craftsmanship techniques + Early success in establishing the brand as a leader in the industry
The Golden Age: Archtop Guitars and Jazz Legends
By the late 1940s, D’Angelico Guitars had gained a reputation as the “finest builder of archtop guitars” in the country. This was largely due to the brand’s ability to craft instruments that were both visually stunning and sonically exceptional.
The D’Angelico brand was looking to appeal to a new generation of players.
A New Era for D’Angelico
The D’Angelico brand was founded in 1916 by Italian immigrant Antonio D’Angelico. The company started out as a small workshop in New York City, producing high-quality guitars for the jazz and classical music scenes. However, by the mid-20th century, the brand had fallen on hard times, and the company was eventually sold to a new owner.
Revitalizing the Brand
In 2011, the D’Angelico brand was acquired by the Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC). FMIC saw an opportunity to revive the brand and bring it into the modern era. The company began by revamping the brand’s image, introducing new designs, and creating a fresh marketing strategy. The new D’Angelico brand was designed to appeal to a new generation of players, with a focus on modern materials and innovative designs. The company introduced a range of new models, including the D’Angelico EXL-1, which featured a unique blend of traditional and modern design elements. FMIC also invested in social media and online marketing, creating a strong online presence for the brand.
Modernizing the Product Line
The D’Angelico brand has undergone significant changes in recent years, with a focus on modernizing the product line. The company has introduced a range of new models, each with its own unique features and design elements.
The guitar’s versatility has made it a favorite among musicians across genres.
The Birth of D’Angelico Guitars
D’Angelico Guitars was founded in 1929 by John D’Angelico, an Italian immigrant who had a passion for music and craftsmanship. The company’s early success was largely due to its innovative approach to guitar design and construction.
The Excel line is positioned as a step up from the Premier, offering higher-end materials and craftsmanship. The Deluxe line is the most premium, with the finest materials and expert craftsmanship.
The D’Angelico Premier Line
The Premier line is the entry point for D’Angelico guitars, offering a range of models that cater to different playing styles and budgets. Here are some key features of the Premier line:
The Premier line is perfect for those who want to experience the sound and feel of a D’Angelico guitar without breaking the bank.
The Deluxe lineup is comprised of the following models:
- The Deluxe Series: This series includes models with custom features, limited edition finishes, and unique pickup configurations. The Limited Edition Series: This series includes models that are only available in limited quantities and feature exclusive designs and finishes. The Signature Series: This series includes models that are signed by the artist or musician, making them a unique collectible item. The Artist Series: This series includes models that are designed in collaboration with a specific artist or musician, offering a unique perspective on the instrument. The Custom Series: This series includes models that are tailored to the individual needs of the player, offering a one-of-a-kind instrument. The Heritage Series: This series includes models that pay homage to the rich history of the instrument, featuring classic designs and finishes.