When Gibson launched the Varitone-equipped ES-345 semi-hollowbody electric guitar in 1959 (priced $345) they promised “18 separate sounds" along with "hundreds of voices.” And in this incredible clip from the 1966 TV show The !!!! Beat Freddie King provides a masterclass on harnessing the full potential of the Gibson ES-345 as we hear it echoing through the studio on full tilt.
Following a genuine golden era introduction from legendary Nashville R&B DJ Bill "Hoss" Allen, the band kicks off on a groovy stage flanked by go-go dancers and decked out in quintessential '60s style.
Look out for Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown – guitarist and Musical Director of the show’s house band – who can also be spotted rocking a 345 (albeit a cool early ‘60s Rickenbacker Capri 345 in natural/Mapleglo!)
Guitar strap slung casually over his right shoulder, Freddie King pulls out the funkiest of riffs from his ES-345 as he effortlessly explores the myriad tones of this classic Gibson semi-hollowbody, from sizzling treble licks to full throated grind.
Known to favor Gibson electrics throughout his career, in the mid-‘60s King moved from using a ’54 Les Paul Goldtop to a variety of 3-series semis, including 345s with and without stop tailpieces .
Check out Gibson’s Freddie King ES-345 recreation – the Freddie King 1960 ES-345 Sixties Cherry VOS – here.
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