Gibson Custom is commemorating the enduring legacy of Argentine rock legend Gustavo Cerati with the release of a meticulously crafted, ultra-limited edition ES-335 guitar. This special instrument pays homage to the iconic guitar that became synonymous with Cerati’s distinctive artistic voice and was an integral part of his most celebrated musical moments. The announcement, made exclusively by Billboard Español, highlights the profound cultural significance of both Cerati and his cherished instrument within the Latin American music landscape and beyond.
The Gibson Custom Gustavo Cerati ES-335 is an exceptionally rare offering, with only 60 instruments produced worldwide. This exclusivity underscores the guitar’s status as a collector’s item, destined to be sought after by devoted fans, musicians, and aficionados of musical history. Availability is strictly limited to in-store purchases or phone orders directly from Gibson Garage Miami, commencing on Friday, September 18th. This limited distribution strategy further amplifies the desirability and perceived value of these commemorative instruments.
A Guitar Steeped in Legend
The ES-335 model has a storied history in music, but its association with Gustavo Cerati imbues this particular reissue with a unique resonance. Inspired by Cerati’s original 1965 ES-335 TD, the guitar accompanied him through pivotal stages of his illustrious career. This includes its prominent role during Soda Stereo’s critically acclaimed 1996 MTV Unplugged performance, a watershed moment that redefined acoustic rock in Latin America. The instrument was also wielded during the band’s monumental El Ã⅕ltimo Concierto farewell tour in 1997, a series of shows that marked the end of an era for legions of fans. Its return for Soda Stereo’s highly anticipated 2007 reunion tour, Me Verás Volver, further cemented its iconic status.
Beyond his work with Soda Stereo, the ES-335 remained Cerati’s primary instrument during his highly successful solo career, notably during the creative period surrounding his 1999 album Bocanada. This album, a critical and commercial success, saw Cerati further explore experimental and electronic soundscapes, with the ES-335 serving as his sonic anchor. The guitar also made a memorable appearance during his 2007 Live Earth performance alongside global superstar Shakira, demonstrating its versatility and enduring appeal across diverse musical contexts.
Meticulous Craftsmanship and Authentic Details
The Gibson Custom Gustavo Cerati ES-335 is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship synonymous with Gibson’s Custom Shop division. Each instrument has undergone the renowned Murphy Lab aging process, imbuing it with the character and patina of a well-loved vintage guitar. Key features faithfully replicate those of Cerati’s original instrument, including a period-correct ’60s Cherry finish, factory-installed double pickguards, Grover kidney button tuning keys, and a B7 Bigsby vibrato tailpiece. These authentic details are crucial for collectors and musicians seeking an accurate representation of Cerati’s personal instrument.
The commitment to authenticity extends to the accompanying accessories. Each guitar is presented in a custom hardshell case, complete with a leather back pad and a Certificate of Authenticity, further validating its provenance and collectible nature. According to a press release from Gibson, "This rare offering presents collectors, musicians, and fans with a unique opportunity to acquire one of the most culturally significant Gibson Custom instruments ever produced." This statement emphasizes the guitar’s dual significance as a high-quality musical instrument and a piece of cultural heritage.
The Genesis of an Icon
The story of Cerati’s original ES-335 TD adds another layer to its legend. Gibson reports that Cerati acquired the guitar in the mid-1990s from Rudy’s Music in New York City. Crucially, the instrument was not in its original state at the time of purchase. It had already been customized with a second pickguard, a leather back pad, and the distinctive Bigsby vibrato. These pre-existing modifications, which Cerati embraced and integrated into his playing style, are faithfully recreated in the Gibson Custom reissue, making it an even more accurate homage to the guitarist’s personal instrument.
A Legacy That Continues to Resonate
Gustavo Cerati, born in Buenos Aires in 1959, remains one of the most influential figures in Latin American rock music. His career trajectory began with Soda Stereo, a pioneering band that emerged in the 1980s and became instrumental in shaping the rock en español genre throughout the following two decades. Cerati’s distinctive vocal style, innovative guitar work, and profound lyrical depth set him apart, influencing countless artists across the continent.
His solo career further showcased his artistic evolution, pushing boundaries with albums like Bocanada and Ahà Vamos (2007), which delved deeper into electronic, experimental, and alternative rock territories. These works solidified his reputation as a visionary artist who consistently evolved and challenged musical conventions.
More than a decade after his passing in 2014, Cerati’s impact shows no signs of diminishing. His influence continues to be felt deeply within Latin music, inspiring new generations of musicians and captivating audiences worldwide. This enduring legacy was recently recognized when Billboard named Soda Stereo the No. 1 Latin Rock Band of All Time, a testament to their unparalleled contribution to the genre. Currently, surviving members Charly Alberti and Zeta Bosio are continuing to celebrate the band’s music through the ECOS tour, featuring a lifelike digital avatar of Cerati, further bridging the gap between his past performances and the present appreciation of his work.
A Historic First for Gibson
The release of the Gibson Custom Gustavo Cerati ES-335 marks a significant moment for Gibson Guitars. It represents the first time the esteemed guitar manufacturer has formally honored a Latin American musician with a dedicated artist instrument. This collaboration signifies a growing recognition of the global impact and cultural significance of Latin American music and its artists within the international music industry. Gibson’s decision to celebrate Cerati’s legacy with such a high-profile and limited release underscores his stature as a true music icon.
Acquisition Details
For discerning collectors and dedicated fans eager to own a piece of musical history, the Gibson Custom Gustavo Cerati ES-335 is available through specific channels. Interested parties can secure one of the 60 limited-edition instruments by contacting Gibson Garage Miami directly. The phone number for inquiries and orders is (305) 709-2686. Alternatively, prospective buyers can visit the Gibson Garage Miami store, located at 2660 NW 3rd Avenue in Miami’s vibrant Wynwood Art District. The limited nature of this release suggests that interested buyers should act swiftly to avoid disappointment.
The release of this meticulously crafted ES-335 is more than just a product launch; it is a profound acknowledgment of Gustavo Cerati’s indelible mark on music history. It provides tangible proof of his lasting influence, allowing fans and musicians alike to connect with his legacy through an instrument that was so central to his artistry. The limited production ensures that these guitars will become highly prized artifacts, preserving the memory of a true legend for years to come.
0 Comments