The Fat Bottom Guitars Blog

Few guitarists have influenced the sound of modern blues and rock quite like Eric Clapton. Across a career spanning more than six decades, Clapton’s tone has evolved alongside a remarkable collection of instruments—from the legendary “Beano” Gibson Les Paul Standard that defined the British blues boom to the iconic “Blackie” Fender Stratocaster that became his signature voice. In this article we explore the guitars that shaped Clapton’s sound and helped define some of the most important moments in guitar history.

From the workshop of a tone-obsessed repairman to one of the most respected names in guitar electronics, Seymour Duncan pickups have shaped the sound of rock, metal, blues and beyond. In this post, we explore the company’s origins, its most famous models like the JB and ’59, and the legendary players who trust Duncan to define their tone.

Founded by Leo Fender after selling Fender to CBS, G&L represents the final evolution of the electric guitar’s original blueprint. From the powerful ASAT to the refined Legacy and innovative Magnetic Field Design pickups, this is the story of Leo’s last and arguably greatest work — built in Fullerton and designed to improve on tradition.

Founded in Tokyo in 1975, ESP Guitars rose from a specialist parts supplier to one of the most influential electric guitar brands in modern music. Renowned for precision craftsmanship, cutting-edge playability, and deep roots in rock and metal culture, ESP’s journey mirrors the evolution of high-performance electric guitars themselves.

Before the electric guitar became a lead instrument, Charlie Christian proved it could sing like a horn. Armed with early Gibson electrics and the blade-style pickup that now bears his name, Christian helped invent modern electric guitar language — and a tone that still inspires players today.

Introduced in the early 1980s, the Gibson Les Paul Heritage Series marked a turning point for Gibson — a deliberate return to late-’50s design, tone, and craftsmanship. Featuring Tim Shaw humbuckers, classic tonewoods, and vintage-inspired appointments, these guitars laid the groundwork for the modern reissue era and remain highly respected by players and collectors alike.

Introduced in the late 1980s, the Fender Stratocaster Plus marked a bold new chapter in Strat history. With Lace Sensor pickups, locking hardware and modern electronics, it redefined what a Strat could be for a new generation of players.

From the first electric “Frying Pan” to the jangly anthems of the British Invasion, Rickenbacker guitars have helped shape modern music like few other brands. This article explores the history of Rickenbacker, its most iconic models, and the legendary players who made its unmistakable chime part of rock ’n’ roll DNA.

From a California machinist’s workshop to the world’s most iconic guitars, Bigsby’s story is one of quiet innovation. Explore how Paul Bigsby’s vibrato design reshaped electric guitar tone, aesthetics, and playing style—leaving a legacy that still defines vintage cool today.