Exciting News from NAMM 2025: Teh Gibson RD is Set to Make a Comeback!
NAMM 2025: In a thrilling announcement, Gibson’s CEO, Cesar Gueikian, has nearly confirmed the revival of the Gibson RD, a unique electric guitar that gained traction in the 1970s, particularly among iconic musicians like Dave Grohl.
Reviving the Classics: A Trend Under Gueikian’s leadership
under Gueikian’s guidance, Gibson has consistently drawn inspiration from its rich history. The company successfully reintroduced the Gibson Victory last year and even brought back a previously unused archival design with the Theodore.
The Distinctive Features of the Gibson RD
While the Victory and Theodore models represented the sounds of the 1980s and late 1950s, respectively, Gueikian is now championing a model that first hit the market in 1977, showcasing a sharper design reminiscent of the Gibson Firebird.
The RD’s body shape has been utilized for both electric guitars and basses, with the six-string variant notably featuring a 25.5” scale length, diverging from the conventional 24.75” length typical of Gibson guitars.
A Mixed Reception: The Original RD’s Journey
Initially, the RD struggled to gain traction and was eventually phased out. Critics pointed to its unconventional design and the active circuitry, which included a switchable radiant mode and treble/bass boost on select models, as potential reasons for its lack of success.
Legacy and Influence: The RD’s Notable Users
Despite its brief period of popularity, the RD found favor with several prominent musicians. Dave Grohl famously played one during the early days of Foo Fighters, even using it to record the iconic track Everlong. Additionally, members of the band Ghost, led by Tobias Forge, also embraced this unique instrument, while Krist Novoselic utilized its bass counterpart.
Looking Ahead: A Hopeful Future for the RD
with hopes of a more favorable reception this time around, Gibson appears optimistic about the RD’s revival. Gueikian’s recent social media post suggests a promising outlook for the guitar’s return.
Exciting Insights from Gueikian
In his Instagram update, Gueikian enthusiastically stated, “This fiddle is ‘Really Dope.’ I’ve already played it 14 times this january 2025 through a top-secret Mesa amp solo; no pedals needed!”
The Mesa Connection: A New Era for Gibson Amps
The mention of the Mesa amp adds an intriguing layer to the announcement. As acquiring Mesa/Boogie in 2021, Gibson has integrated these legendary amplifiers into its offerings, enhancing its product lineup. This partnership has already revitalized Gibson Amps, with the mesa/Boogie Mark IIC+ making a triumphant return after a 40-year hiatus.
Metal Vibes? the Potential for a New Direction
Interestingly, Gueikian was seen playing Tool in the video, hinting at a possible shift towards a heavier sound for Gibson. With Mesa/boogie renowned for its high-gain tube amps, fans are left wondering if this new RD will cater to a more metal-oriented audience. As NAMM 2025 approaches, the anticipation for further details is building.
