The History of the Gibson ES-5N

The ES-5 was introduced in 1949 and was Gibson's top-of-the-line electric guitar at the time, also being the first three-pickup guitar of its kind. It directly influenced the creation of the Epiphone Zephyr Emperor Regent and, consequently, the Fender Stratocaster. Blonde ES-5s like this one were produced in smaller quantities than the sunburst version, with only 22 units made in 1949.

Aside from its striking appearance, this ES-5 is a guitar with exceptional sound and playability, making it the most versatile among Gibson's full-hollow electric guitars, thanks to the additional tonal nuances from the middle pickup.

It is perfectly suited for a variety of styles, including jazz, pop, blues, and early rock 'n' roll, making it a highly sought-after instrument among collectors.

T-Bone Walker's ES-5N

Produced in a limited run of only 22 units in 1949, this guitar was the first to feature three P90 pickups, each connected to its own independent volume control and governed by an overall tone control. This innovative configuration, now rare, played a significant role in shaping the artist's signature sound. The meeting between T-Bone Walker and this groundbreaking instrument marked a major turning point in the evolution of blues, with the perfect combination of elements that would later become rock 'n' roll.

The meeting between T-Bone Walker and this new instrument marks a major turning point in the evolution of blues, with the perfect combination of elements that would later become rock 'n' roll.

The musician used this guitar throughout the 1950s and 1960s, honing his stage presence and cultivating his image as a charmer. His nonchalant poses and acrobatic guitar playing (behind the back, upside down, etc.) left a lasting impression. T-Bone Walker paved the way for rock, seamlessly blending blues and jazz in the Hot Clubs where he performed, notably in France.

During one of his tours, this beautiful ES-5N disappeared without any explanation. Forty years later, the guitar was identified as T-Bone's, and the current owner had no idea that they had purchased one of the 22 ES-5N guitars from 1949.

After documenting all the wood grain patterns, mother-of-pearl inlays, and other distinctive features, including repairs and modifications, the verdict was clear: it was indeed the missing guitar!

After likely having passed through several owners, this exceptional guitar finally regained its official identity in 2016, thanks to the expertise of François Charles, a member of the national company of experts, who confirmed its "unambiguous ownership."