Lipsticks, Cool Tricks and Vintage Vibes
Oooh la la.....
It's been sometime since we had some mighty fine Danelectro guitars in stock, but we are back!
I'm definitely going to highlight a few guitars momentarily but first I think we should take it back.......back into history..........
Some History
Once upon a time in the annals of the musical Mississippi, there emerged a tale as peculiar as a catfish with feathers. This tale danced along the frets and strings of instruments, and its protagonist was none other than Danelectro. Now, gather 'round, ye lovers of plucked melodies, for I shall spin the yarn of these guitars that twanged their way into the hearts of musicians with a charm as enchanting as a riverboat on a moonlit night.
In the distant year of 1947, the mastermind behind the Danelectro saga, Nathan Daniel, cast his spell on the guitar world. This magician of music sought to make instruments not for the lofty elites but for the common folks, the kind who could hum a tune on a Sunday porch. And lo and behold, the first Danelectro guitar, with its shimmering lipstick tube pickups, emerged like a siren from the waters.
These instruments, baptised in simplicity and wrapped in masonite and Formica, played a tune that echoed through the ages. With names like the Shorthorn and the Longhorn, Danelectro guitars became the minstrels of the proletariat, singing songs of affordability and accessibility.
As the decades flowed like a slow river bend, Danelectro continued to strum its way through the currents of change. The sixties witnessed the birth of the iconic 1449 model, a guitar with not one, but two lipstick pickups and an amp built right into its case – a marvel that would make even Tom Sawyer trade his whitewashing brush for a set of strings.
But, my dear reader, the river of Danelectro's history meanders through both calm waters and turbulent rapids. The brand faced a hiatus, a silence that hung in the air like the hush before a thunderstorm. Yet, fret not, for the tale doesn't end there.
In the year 1996, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Danelectro reappeared on the scene. The company sought not only to recreate the magic of yesteryears but to cast a new enchantment upon a fresh generation of players. With reissues and new designs, Danelectro once again strummed its strings, weaving a melody that resonated with the echoes of bygone eras.
And so, dear reader, the story of Danelectro guitars is not just a tale of wood, wire, and pickups. It is a narrative spun with threads of innovation, simplicity, and the belief that the joy of music should be within reach of every strummer along the riverbank.
And a legend was born.
A Few Guitars
The contemporary era witnesses Danelectro guitars striding boldly into the future, maintaining their distinct charm and innovative spirit. With a nod to their iconic past, modern Danelectros seamlessly blend vintage aesthetics with cutting-edge craftsmanship. The sleek designs, often featuring retro-inspired lipstick pickups, captivate musicians and collectors alike. Renowned for their affordability without compromising on quality, these guitars have become a beacon for players seeking unique tones and a touch of nostalgic flair. As the sonic pioneers of the past meet the demands of the present, modern Danelectro guitars continue to carve out a musical niche, proving that timeless style and forward-thinking innovation are the hallmarks of an enduring legacy.
Danelectro The 'Stock '59' Electric Guitar - Aqua
Its unique jangle reverberates with undeniable charm. Boasting the enduring Shorthorn semi-hollowbody design and equipped with a pair of vintage Lipstick pickups, the Danelectro Stock ’59 effortlessly captures the spirit of the early days of rock. Constructed with a lightweight hardboard/plywood center-block body, this guitar channels the quintessential "Dano" sound characterised by its lively jangle and prolonged sustain. The maple neck, paired with a pau ferro fingerboard, ensures a smooth and delightful playing experience. Simultaneously, the traditional bridge featuring a wood swivel saddle and aluminum nut faithfully contributes to recreating the iconic "Dano" sound that graced numerous hit records. The Danelectro Stock ’59 calls for a firsthand encounter, enticing you to submerge yourself in its timeless allure.
Danelectro '64XT Guitar - Gloss Black
Is the '64XT the pièce de résistance of Dano electric guitars? Danelectro certainly thinks so, and so does Guitar Player magazine — they've even adorned it with their coveted Editors’ Pick seal of approval. One thing is for sure: amid a multitude of guitars in your collection, the '64XT will strike a unique chord. Its resonant chambered spruce body resonates with a melody entirely its own. However, the true revelry begins when you plug in the '64XT. The dual Lipstick bridge humbucker concocts a delectable fusion of raw power and a chiming, jangling tone, while the robust single-coil neck pickup delivers punchy low mids and an output that will push your amp to its limits. As if that weren't enough, you can split the bridge humbucker for a smorgasbord of tonal delights. Complete with a Wilkinson vibrato tailpiece, graphite nut, and a tough gloss polyester finish, the Danelectro '64XT is not just a guitar; it's a sonic escapade waiting to unfurl.
Danelectro Longhorn Bass - Copper Burst
The Danelectro Longhorn Bass guitar, an emblem of iconic aesthetics and timeless resonance, returns in triumph with enhanced features. Boasting a user-friendly 29.75" length and a 24-fret neck, this short-scale bass unlocks extended-range playability. The quest for that rich, vintage tone finds its answer in the Longhorn Bass with its dual Lipstick pickup configuration. Whether experimenting with flatwound strings for a punchy, upright-style sound or opting for roundwounds to inject a touch of grind for instant rock mojo, this bass offers versatility. Whether you're a pick enthusiast or prefer fingerstyle playing, the vintage-inspired playability and sound of this bass will captivate you. For those yearning for a character-packed alternative to more conventional bass tones, the Danelectro Longhorn Bass is an indispensable addition to your collection.
There it is. We also have some awesome Danelectro Effects Pedals and some other Tasty Guitars to check out.
Why not pop in to Musicmaker and check some of these sweet, sweet axes out for yourself.
We'd love to see you.
Until next time.