The history of G&L guitar and basses
Once upon a time, in the 1970s, two guitar industry veterans, Leo Fender and George Fullerton, decided to start their own company, G&L (George & Leo) Musical Instruments.
Leo Fender was already a legend in the guitar world, having founded Fender Musical Instruments Corporation in the 1940s and revolutionizing the industry with the creation of iconic instruments such as the Telecaster and Stratocaster. George Fullerton was a close friend and collaborator of Fender, having worked with him at Fender for over 20 years.
Together, Fender and Fullerton set out to create a new line of guitars and basses that would build on the legacy of Fender instruments, but with a few key improvements. One of the biggest innovations of G&L instruments was the Magnetic Field Design (MFD) pickups, which used a unique combination of ceramic magnets and steel pole pieces to create a more versatile and dynamic tone than traditional pickups.
Another important feature of G&L instruments was the Dual-Fulcrum vibrato, which allowed for greater stability and precision when using the vibrato bar.
Despite initial skepticism from some guitar players and retailers, G&L instruments quickly gained a reputation for their high quality and innovative features. Many famous musicians, including Eddie Van Halen, have used G&L instruments on stage and in the studio.
They have also been responsible for introducing some iconic models such as the ASAT Classic and L-2000 basses which are still popular today.
G&L is still producing some of the best guitars and basses on the market, while also continuing to innovate new designs and technologies. With a commitment to quality craftsmanship and excellence in sound, G&L remains one of the premier names in guitar and bass production.
G&L instruments are still made in the same factory in Fullerton, California, and continue to be highly sought after by guitar and bass players of all levels. Despite Leo Fender passing away in 1991, G&L continues to innovate and produce high quality instruments, carrying on the legacy of its founders.