It’s almost impossible to imagine Elvis Presley without a guitar. From his very first album cover, which became an instant classic, to his numerous hit movies, and unforgettable performances like the ’68 Comeback Special and “Aloha from Hawaii,” Elvis and his guitar were inseparable. Whether on stage in Vegas or relaxing at Graceland, a guitar was always within reach, ready for him to play. Interestingly, his musical talents extended beyond just the guitar; he also enjoyed playing the bass guitar.
Elvis’s journey with the guitar began at the age of 11 when he received his first instrument. For many years, this lone guitar was his constant companion. As he rose to fame and became the undisputed King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, his guitar collection began to grow, with many of these instruments becoming iconic pieces of pop culture history. Let’s explore some of the most famous guitars associated with the King.
Several of Elvis Presley’s cherished guitars are elegantly arranged on the grand staircase of Graceland, showcasing his deep connection with these instruments.
The 1955 Martin D-28: The Album Cover Star
Before acquiring his famed D-28, Elvis initially played a 1942 Martin D-18 during the formative years of 1954-55. However, in 1955, he traded in his D-18 for a newer Martin D-28 at O.K. Houck Piano Co. in Memphis, a music store he frequented for instrument purchases. This D-28 remained with Elvis for just over a year, yet it became incredibly significant.
This particular guitar holds a special place in music history as it is the very one Elvis is seen playing on the cover of his groundbreaking debut album, “Elvis Presley.” Adding to its unique appeal is the beautifully crafted leather cover, a custom creation by an employee of the same music store where Elvis bought the guitar. This personalized touch made the guitar even more distinctive and representative of Elvis’s emerging style.
The 1956 Gibson J200 and 1960 Gibson J200: Twin Kings of Sound
The 1956 Gibson J200 exudes an aura of rock ‘n’ roll royalty, perfectly befitting its owner. Elvis clearly adored this guitar and played it extensively, notably during many of his concerts and public appearances throughout 1957, cementing its place in his performances of that era.
After his service in the Army, Elvis wanted to restore his beloved, well-worn 1956 J200. He tasked his guitarist, Scotty Moore, with sending it for refurbishment. Unfortunately, the restoration wasn’t completed in time for Elvis’s recording session in Nashville on March 20. To ensure Elvis had an instrument ready, he was provided with a brand-new 1960 Gibson J200. Remarkably, this new guitar was nearly identical in appearance to his cherished 1956 model, highlighting the consistent craftsmanship of Gibson guitars.
Meanwhile, his original 1956 J200 underwent a stunning transformation. Gibson replaced the original red pickguard with a striking new black one and, in a personalized touch, inlaid “Elvis” onto the fingerboard. This revamped guitar made its grand debut in publicity shots for the film “Wild in the Country” and was also prominently featured in the documentary “Elvis: That’s The Way It Is.” Elvis was equally captivated by the 1960 J200 and decided to keep it as well. He notably used the 1960 model during his iconic ’68 Comeback Special and in numerous live performances, further solidifying the J200’s status as a quintessential Elvis guitar.
Both the 1956 and 1960 Gibson J200 guitars became favorites of the King and are now preserved as part of the permanent archival collection at Graceland, allowing fans to appreciate these iconic instruments firsthand. Notably, the 1956 guitar has been showcased at exhibitions like “Elvis at The O2” in London, giving international fans a chance to see this piece of music history.
Fender Precision Bass: Graceland and the Silver Screen
Many fans recognize the Fender Precision Bass as the guitar Elvis is seen playing in the iconic March 1965 photograph taken in the living room of Graceland. This image has become a beloved and intimate glimpse into Elvis’s personal life at his famous home.
This elegant bass guitar also made an appearance in his movie “Spinout,” further broadening its exposure to fans and moviegoers alike. Like many of his prized instruments, this Fender Precision Bass has been put on display at exhibitions such as “Elvis at The O2” in London, allowing fans to view it up close.
1965 Gibson EBS-1250 Double Bass: A “Spinout” Star
The 1965 Gibson EBS-1250 Double Bass is visually striking and became prominent through publicity shots and artwork associated with the movie “Spinout.” However, in the film itself, Elvis is only seen playing it briefly towards the end of the movie. Earlier in “Spinout,” his co-star, Jimmy Hawkins, is seen playing this distinctive double-neck guitar.
Despite its limited screen time in Elvis’s hands in “Spinout,” he acquired the Gibson EBS-1250 after filming wrapped and it quickly became one of his favored guitars. This unique and eye-catching Gibson is also part of the prestigious Graceland Archives, representing another significant piece of Elvis’s musical legacy.
Gibson Ebony Dove: From Aloha to Auction
The Gibson Ebony Dove guitar gained recent attention and excitement, especially among Elvis enthusiasts and collectors. This is the very guitar Elvis played during his groundbreaking “Aloha from Hawaii” television special, a performance seen by millions worldwide.
This historically significant Gibson Ebony Dove was placed up for auction at the renowned “Auction at Graceland.” It’s important to note that this guitar, along with other auction items, came from a third-party collector, emphasizing that items from the official Graceland Archives are never put up for auction. In line with their dedication to preserving Elvis’s legacy, Graceland often participates in these auctions, attempting to bring these cherished Elvis artifacts back home to Graceland for preservation and public display.
Beyond its iconic appearance in “Aloha from Hawaii,” Elvis used this Gibson Ebony Dove in numerous concerts, making it a familiar sight to fans who attended his live shows. Unique features of this guitar include a Kenpo Karate decal and Elvis’s name inlaid on the fingerboard, personal touches that made it distinctly his. Adding to its story, Elvis gifted this guitar to a fan in the front row at a concert in Asheville, North Carolina. This fan was the one who later consigned it to the Auction at Graceland, bringing the guitar back into the public eye.
Leading up to the auction, many of the items, including the Gibson Ebony Dove, were displayed at the car museum at Graceland, allowing visitors a preview of these remarkable pieces of Elvis history.
To delve deeper into the world of Elvis’s guitars, you can explore resources like Scotty Moore’s website, which offers extensive information on the guitars used and owned by Elvis Presley.
And of course, for the ultimate Elvis experience, visit Graceland and immerse yourself in the life and career of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, where many of these legendary guitars are preserved and celebrated.
