Gretsch G6199-RBB Jupiter Thunderbird “Billy-Bo” Masterbuilt Stephen Stern (2022)

The Gretsch “6199 Billy Bo” and its striking tail fin design, reminiscent of a 1950s road cruiser, was developed in 1959 by Bo Diddley, a legendary pioneer of Rock'n'Roll and Blues. And this exclusive guitar then found its way to none other than the legendary Texas rocker Billy Gibbons, who was presented with the original by Bo Diddley and was immediately impressed by this extraordinary guitar. He later reported: “Some time ago, Bo gave me this guitar as a present. It was during the last ZZ Top recordings when the technical team and I were looking for a special guitar in the guitar vault, and there it was! We didn't want to risk using such a rare instrument 'on the road'.” So Gretsch launched a reissue model, which Billy used as one of his main guitars on tour. If you want to go one better, you only have to look at this “Billy Bo”, which was made by none other than masterbuilder Stephen Stern in a strictly limited edition. This gem in the classic Gretsch color “Orange Stain” boasts a whole host of features such as gold-colored hardware and a tuning-stable Bigsby vibrato system. However, the highlight is the bold Western look with “Aged Pearloid” block inlays with detailed Western motifs and a characteristic branding on the top. And of course we are also fascinated by the sound of this impressive guitar. A “TV Jones T-Armond” on the bridge and a “P90 Dog-Ear” pickup on the neck are perfect for the sound that made ZZ Top so famous. Texas Blues at its best, “La Grange”, “Tush” and “Jesus Just Left Chicago” - these are the songs that immediately flow from your fingers. So today we are delighted to be able to offer you this exceptional Gretsch in absolute collector's condition.

• Including original case, certificate, Gretsch documentation, leather strap, patches, stickers, key ring
• Weight: 3284 grams