logo
episode-header-image
Jun 2019
24m 29s

Gibson vs Fender - The Stratocaster Blas...

Wondery
About this episode

Gibson's Les Paul sets a new standard for the solid-body electric guitar, and rival guitar maker Fender needs to respond. The company does so in 1954 with a sleek, futuristic guitar unlike anything else on the market: the Stratocaster. It's a hit.

With their higher volume and heavier tones, the Les Paul and Stratocaster help give rise to a new style of music: rock 'n' roll. It opens up a whole new market for electric guitars -- but which company will dominate?   


Support us by supporting our sponsors!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Up next
Oct 8
The Rise and Fall of Peloton | Welcome to the Ride | 1
In 2011, avid fitness fan John Foley comes up with an idea for an internet-connected exercise bike that allows users to experience the communal nature of a cycling class from the comfort of home. He thinks the idea will make gyms a relic of the past. The next year, he and four ot ... Show More
39m 31s
Oct 1
Dieselgate | Running on Fumes | 2
By 2014, Volkswagen has taken the U.S. auto market by storm with its fleet of affordable, fuel-efficient diesel cars. But a new study threatens to reveal the dirty truth behind so-called ""clean"" diesel. When the EPA comes knocking with questions, the company's very survival is ... Show More
38m 38s
Sep 24
Dieselgate | Truth or Dare | 1
In 2007, Volkswagen's new CEO Martin Winterkorn sets his sights on besting GM and Toyota to become the top automaker in the world. But the company can't get there without cutting a few regulatory corners.Be the first to know about Wondery’s newest podcasts, curated recommendation ... Show More
30m 45s
Recommended Episodes
Oct 2019
Tuning Up: Gibson Guitars Sings Sweeter Song
Today is Friday, October 4, and we’re looking at Gibson Guitars vs. Fender. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. 
5m 23s
Oct 2022
Guitar stars: Strumming through the ages
Get ready to shred! Joy and cohost Buddy are building the most epic guitarchestra (aka guitar orchestra) in this week’s episode — so they’re auditioning some of history’s most notable guitar players. Jazz innovator Charlie Christian shows off his strumming solos, which made score ... Show More
27m 42s
Oct 2021
Juha Ruokangas Part III
For the first time ever - Jay Jay welcomes back a special guest for the THIRD part of their conversation - legendary luthier Juha Ruokangas. For the guitar enthusiasts who couldn't get enough of their previous conversations - tune in to hear Jay Jay & Juha dive even further into ... Show More
1h 9m
Jan 2024
Modern Guitar Heroes: The Men
What is a guitar hero?...yes, yes, it’s a video game that vaguely simulates playing a real guitar…what else?...Yes, yes, it means someone who can rock the “expert level” at guitar hero, the video game…but before that, it meant something totally different…A guitar hero was a guy—a ... Show More
27m 51s
Oct 2021
Juha Ruokangas Part II
This week's episode is another must-listen for all guitar enthusiasts. Jay Jay welcomes back Juha Ruokangas of Ruokangas guitars for part II of their conversation. Juha joins Jay Jay from Helsinki & they get right back into it, discussing everything from heat treatments and finis ... Show More
54m 42s
Sep 2021
Louder! How the electric guitar conquered popular music
Whether it be a kerrang, a chop, a blistering solo, some finger picking or a subtle flange, the electric guitar is one of the defining sounds of the 20th century. Without it – and its constant companion, the amplifier - popular culture would be unrecognisable today: no big gigs, ... Show More
39m 39s
Dec 2023
How are electric guitars made?
How are electric guitars made? How are guitar strings made? And how, exactly, do guitars work? We’re answering questions about electric guitars with local luthier (guitarmaker) Lea in Burlington, Vermont. Creston gave us a tour of his studio–including his custom glitter room, to ... Show More
24m 31s
Apr 2015
Guitar Month
For National Guitar Month, a show featuring great guitarists from the 1920s through the 1950s. Guitarists include: George Barnes, Charlie Christian, Eddie Lang, Lonnie Johnson, George van Eps, Alvino Ray, Frank Ferera, Django Reinhardt, Les Paul and Elmore James. Songs include: Y ... Show More
51m 40s
Dec 2020
Yamaha's digital saxophone
Tom Sumner, the president of Yamaha Corp. of America, tells Jefferson Graham all about the new Yamaha digital sax, a more versatile and easier to play instrument. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sel ... Show More
6m 10s