Jackson Browne Signature Model Handmade Acoustic Guitar by Gibson to be Unveiled at NAMM and Available in Stores Nationwide on January 13

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 12, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- On Thursday, January 13, singer-songwriter Jackson Browne will join Gibson Guitar in introducing Gibson Acoustic's Jackson Browne Signature acoustic guitar during a press event at the 2011 winter NAMM Show (National Association of Music Merchants) in Anaheim, CA.  Five years in the making—through a series of evolving prototypes—the handmade instrument was designed and is being produced at the Gibson Montana Acoustic Master Shop in Bozeman, MT.  Browne collaborated with master luthier Ren Ferguson and Robi Johns at Gibson Montana throughout the process.  It is the first guitar to bear Browne's name.

"The Gibson team has thoroughly enjoyed creating this outstanding musical instrument with Jackson," says Henry Juszkiewicz, CEO, Gibson Guitar Corporation.  "We are confident that players seeking the very best in tone, whether in the living room, in the studio, or on the stage, will find this a must-have guitar."

Distinguished by a red spruce top and sustainably-farmed English walnut back and sides, the Jackson Browne Signature model was inspired by Gibson's legendary 1930s-era Roy Smeck model—several of which are among Browne's own prized collection of vintage Gibsons—known for its big tone, pure traditional acoustic sound, and flawless projection during concert performance.  Responsive and powerful, the "Jackson Browne" has a wide neck, deep round shoulders, and the scale of a classical guitar, with 12 frets to the body.  It is as much a fully modern instrument as a vital link to Gibson's heritage, with innovations including a sophisticated pickup offering unparalleled sound reproduction when amplified, and exceptional gain before feedback capability.

"It has been an extraordinary back and forth process with Gibson creating this guitar," says Jackson Browne.  "As a performer, I've learned over the last 20 years what I like, and what works for my music.  To use the iconic Roy Smeck model as a starting point—as well as Gibson's 1994 reissue—and build something that helps me bring my songs to life is really exciting."

The Jackson Browne Signature Model A (msrp $7,738) comes factory installed with the Trance Audio Amulet® true-stereo acoustic guitar pickup, Browne's system of choice.  Model 1, without pick-up—but with the capability for being retrofit—is also available (msrp $5,799).  

Renowned worldwide for his acoustic performances, Jackson Browne launches his 2011 Solo Acoustic Tour with a February 23 concert in Santa Cruz, CA.  The North American itinerary runs through April, with additional dates and regions to be added.  For special benefit seating, visit www.guacfund.org.  

Jackson Browne has written and performed some of the most literate and moving songs in popular music, and has defined a genre of songwriting charged with honesty, emotion and personal politics. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004, and the Songwriter's Hall of Fame in 2007.

Press and media are invited to attend the official unveiling and product launch of Gibson Acoustic's Jackson Browne Signature acoustic guitar at 12 noon on Thurs., January 13, 2011 at the NAMM Show.  The press event takes place in the private Gibson suite—Room 303 AB—on the third floor of the Anaheim Convention Center.

For more information:  www.jacksonbrowne.com

SOURCE Jackson Browne