The Ibanez JEM & RG: A Short History

Поділитися
Вставка
  • Опубліковано 29 тра 2020
  • PATREON sign up (new levels available): / fivewattworld
    For five watt world short history bundle and HX Stomp presets
    flatfiv.co/collections/five-w...
    T-shirts, hoodies, mugs, and tumblers
    the-five-watt-world-store.cre...
    To make a donation to support the channel click here:
    www.paypal.me/fivewattworld
    Get regular updates on what's happening at the channel on Instagram:
    / fivewattworld
    Here's our video on the short history of the Ibanez JEM and RG guitars. This one took a little longer for me to make because, well, pointy guitars were never my thing. But what I realized was that once I started the research, this is a great guitar story. And I can't resist a great story.
    As is often the case, I am indebted to Tony Bacon for his excellent writing. In this case in "The Ibanez Electric Guitar Book". ***Link to Amazon, amzn.to/2HmAZyX
    Also, "Ibanez: The Untold Story" by Paul Specht, Micheal Wright and Jim Donahue.
    ***Link to Amazon, amzn.to/34n1NHU
    I need to thank Jason Shadrick, John Bollinger and all the guys at Premier Guitar magazine for the use of the video clips of Andy Timmons Rig Rundown:
    • Rig Rundown - Andy Tim...
    I need to thank Tom Quayle and the excellent people at Dawsons Music in the UK for the use of the intro and outro RG music played by Tom. For the complete demo of the clips used here:
    • Video
    Until next time, thanks for being a part of the five watt world.
    Keith
    *I was not paid in any way to produce this video.
    ***Five watt world participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn commissions by linking to Amazon. In simpler language, this means that whenever you buy something from Amazon from a link on here, I receive a small percentage of its price.

КОМЕНТАРІ • 1,3 тис.

  • @StevenSiroVai1
    @StevenSiroVai1 4 роки тому +1382

    What a fantastic video. Thanks so much Keith. I found it fascinating as it unravelled info that I was unaware of. I very much appreciate the time and care you put into this.
    Steve Vai

    • @fivewattworld
      @fivewattworld  4 роки тому +198

      Hey Steve, Glad you liked it. I figure you’re the ultimate “fact checker” on this one.
      Thanks for checking it out!

    • @StevenSiroVai1
      @StevenSiroVai1 4 роки тому +304

      @@fivewattworld Right on. As far as facts go, you pretty much nailed it. Just a few little things perhaps. I don't believe Frank ever really worked with a guitar company. He had a lab under the studio where his brother-in-law, Midget Sloatman, would tear apart Franks guitars and do all sorts of things with them. That's when I realiZed you don't have to play a standard guitar. The idea to scallop the last 4 frets was actually inspired by Billy Sheehan. He had that on his basses. Later, just a few years ago, I started slightly scalloping the whole neck on some of my guitars. My buddy Joe Despagni spelled his company "Jem". That's where I got the spelling from. But these facts are relatively inconsequential. You got the gist and more. Thanks again.

    • @fivewattworld
      @fivewattworld  4 роки тому +146

      Thanks for the clarification. The misspelling on the "Jem" name came out of the Ibanez book actually. I had it correct in the first draft. Ah, well.
      That moment at NAMM had to be one for the books. Wish I was there for that. Thanks again.

    • @4ofwands
      @4ofwands 4 роки тому +21

      Now I want one!

    • @leedemkiw6085
      @leedemkiw6085 4 роки тому +14

      Very impressed with the amount of knowledge you have poured into your videos. I pretty much learn something new with each one.

  • @RickBeato
    @RickBeato 4 роки тому +609

    Awesome Hypes! Once again half of what I know about Ibanez I learned in the last 20 mins. Thanks dude!🔥🔥🔥🔥

    • @guybolt
      @guybolt 4 роки тому +22

      Hey Rick, I love that you take the time to watch and comment on other videos

    • @fivewattworld
      @fivewattworld  4 роки тому +17

      Thanks Hypes!

    • @umbertoyltp
      @umbertoyltp 4 роки тому +12

      For me there are three important youtubers on guitar and music history:
      Rick Beato
      Five Watt World
      Trogly's Guitar Show (daily videos!).

    • @guybolt
      @guybolt 4 роки тому +1

      @@umbertoyltp Paul Davids? Early Music Sources?

    • @umbertoyltp
      @umbertoyltp 4 роки тому +1

      @@guybolt I mentioned these three mainly for their historical value. I am subscibed to Paul Davids for his teachings.

  • @mlwilliam213
    @mlwilliam213 4 роки тому +153

    So Ibanez and Vai were able to come up with their own original guitar in such a short time, while John Mayer and PRS took years to come up with a strat with a PRS headstock.

    • @bondalero0074
      @bondalero0074 4 роки тому +7

      My exact thoughts! Why leave fender strat when you have your own $3k model?#Lol@mlwilliam213

    • @joshuajkoplin
      @joshuajkoplin Рік тому +7

      It has a pointer so you know if your tone knob is on 7 vs 8 😂😂😂😂l😂😂😂😂

    • @Bryce.-.
      @Bryce.-. Рік тому

      Ok

    • @funkster007
      @funkster007 Рік тому +12

      I guess because Vai already knew what he wanted. Meanwhile, Mayer still doesn't know. LOL

    • @daemonspudguy
      @daemonspudguy Рік тому

      As far as I know, the guitar was basically done in 2015 and took so long to come out because it needed to be tinkered.

  • @ebathurst9216
    @ebathurst9216 4 роки тому +106

    Can’t wait for “The Ibanez PIA: A SHORT History”

    • @naegleriafowleri1715
      @naegleriafowleri1715 3 роки тому +1

      Probably the ugliest “jem” ever made, they discontinued all the japanese models and left this flamboyant guitar lol

    • @matthewbehrle4428
      @matthewbehrle4428 3 роки тому +12

      @@naegleriafowleri1715 but who cares? It’s Steve’s style and it’s HIS signature guitar, not the public’s. It’s not like the other jems just up and disappeared, you can still buy one and Steve is probably going to continue using his jems like the evo or woody

    • @naegleriafowleri1715
      @naegleriafowleri1715 3 роки тому +2

      @@matthewbehrle4428 they did disappear lol he discontinued all the made in japan jems except tbe pia

    • @chickenlegs28porkchops94
      @chickenlegs28porkchops94 3 роки тому

      Pia is the name of his wife so he probably named it after her and the beautiful of the guitar on her looks maybe.🤔

    • @kellylee5842
      @kellylee5842 3 роки тому

      @@chickenlegs28porkchops94 I don't I do not necessarily like the Pia then again he is an artist maybe he's just evolving and changing his taste

  • @joshoptical
    @joshoptical 4 роки тому +44

    There is no doubt they bet the farm on the JEM & RG models. They had to have retooled entirely to make these especially in the quantities they pushed. IMO one of the great bets of guitar marketing history, and maybe beyond.

  • @davidgood6744
    @davidgood6744 4 роки тому +198

    I’m not even that interested in the Jem or the RG, but, as usual, I learned a boatload of guitar lore and see where those models fit into our world. I hoist my newly acquired Five Watt World coffee mug to you, sir.

    • @1ListerofSmeg
      @1ListerofSmeg 4 роки тому +6

      I concur in general.
      What I'm really struggling with is:
      Is it wrong of me to WANT a mug? Knowing perfectly well that I don't NEED a mug..

    • @whaguitars8783
      @whaguitars8783 4 роки тому +2

      I agree. I dig the Ibanez S Series guitars. But these JEM bodies are just plain ugly.

    • @fivewattworld
      @fivewattworld  4 роки тому +1

      Thanks David!

    • @fivewattworld
      @fivewattworld  4 роки тому +4

      Only you can answer the want/need questions "Lister". I need to look into Patreon or something like it so the shirts and mugs don't pile up in a corner of your music room.

    • @shaunw9270
      @shaunw9270 4 роки тому +6

      Exactly David ! I'm not a fan of these guitars personally but I enjoy learning the history of all the guitars and their players and who did what etc . It's cool Steve Vai himself even commented and added some more information! I won't pretend to know much about him or his records but I just thought that was really nice of him.

  • @observinghumanity3034
    @observinghumanity3034 4 роки тому +81

    I was a young teen just starting to play guitar when the Jem came onto the scene. I desperately wanted one, but at that age could never afford one, and my parents could not afford to buy me one either. Fast forward to 2017 and the release of the 30th anniversary LNG Jem777 and I finally got that guitar of my childhood dreams and I play the shit out of it and love every minute of it. I am not a collector, so to me it was about having a guitar that I dreamed about when I was starting my guitar player journey.

    • @funkster007
      @funkster007 3 роки тому +1

      I couldn't even afford an RG550 in '87. lol

    • @jamiemccabe6322
      @jamiemccabe6322 3 роки тому

      I relate to that and about to get the jem7v big difference I just loved the guitar and vai Satriani and others only been playing a few months now but I must have a jem

    • @ianedmonds9191
      @ianedmonds9191 3 роки тому +1

      @@jamiemccabe6322 I spent my UK student loan on an RG570 and a Boss ME6 in 1992. All of it. £715. Damn I was radical back then.
      I gave away the ME6 in the late 2010s to a guitarist in the band I was in. The RG570 is still hung on my wall and I play it all the time.
      It's still a fantastic guitar and still the fastest neck I've ever played on.
      I've got a PRS Custom now as well and the RG570 is still better than it in terms of playability though the Custom is probably the more flexible guitar in terms of tones...
      RG570 in Purple Neon is still the guitar I love the most though.
      Luv and Peace.
      Edit (than)

    • @jamiemccabe6322
      @jamiemccabe6322 3 роки тому

      @@ianedmonds9191 cheers man hope I’m still playing and a good level years down the line

    • @And1slash
      @And1slash 3 роки тому

      I know the feeling of when you get the guitar you always wanted
      my main guitar I always wanted was a RG 550 in DSY and a 1987 model though I settled for a white 1991 model
      and it was worth the 15 years of waiting

  • @paulcoleman3081
    @paulcoleman3081 4 роки тому +67

    These Short Histories aren't getting any better, Keith. But that's because the whole series started off as close to perfect as you can be and you've maintained the standard throughout. Essential UA-cam.

    • @wreams2964
      @wreams2964 4 роки тому +5

      *thought we really had them in the first half*

  • @YourTryingLuck
    @YourTryingLuck 4 роки тому +16

    I remember it was 2005-06, skipping band class every chance I had to go to Guitar Center. I saw this epic looking guitar. Affordable too. It was a RG. I grabbed it and it felt so amazing. I fell in love. I saved some money with the small part time I had, and turned out they had sold out and also no longer produced them anymore. They released more RG's but none captured my attention like the one I saw. Ended up with a Les Paul instead that I only used twice .. later in 2016, went into a pawn shop and saw the exact model I wanted. Bought it for $150. Still have it. And also a Prestige Model now. Love all my guitars but all my Ibanez especially the RG's are my favorites. Also still have that Les Paul alongside another one.

  • @FloridaManMatty
    @FloridaManMatty 4 роки тому +94

    9:59 - “The fingerboard was scalloped, something he borrowed from Malmsteen”.
    Minor correction, Keith - Vai actually got the idea to scallop those last four frets from Billy Sheehan, with whom he had worked when he was with David Lee Roth.
    Everything else was spot on! Except you still can’t pronounce “Yngwie Malmsteen” to save your life 😂. As a nearly 30 year Ibanez Jem and Vai fanboy, I can personally certify that this video is VERY accurate and hits all of the high points. You even got the photo of the right Maxxas that Hoshino sent to Vai for Christmas! Solid work!

    • @fivewattworld
      @fivewattworld  4 роки тому +37

      You know, everytime I put Malmsteen in a script I just shake my head.

    • @fvr08
      @fvr08 4 роки тому +10

      The first electric guitarist to use a scalloped fretboard on a popular recording is someone Jeff Beck called ‘the best guitarist alive’: John Mclaughlin. John used a scalloped fretboard on his groundbreaking albums with the fusion band Mahavishnu Orchestra (a Gibson ES-345) as well as his Indian-influenced band Shakti (an Abe Wechter-built 13 string built from a Gibson J-200). Mclaughlin used the scalloped fretboard for those unique Eastern bends straight down towards the fingerboard wood.
      The next big player who used one was the great Ritchie Blackmore, from Deep Purple and later, Rainbow. Ritchie, who knew Mclaughlin, was influenced by the lute music of the British Isles. His exciting style used mostly single notes played very fast, mixed in with wild bluesy bends. His scallops were a little different as they were deeper towards the next higher fret and virtually nonexistent under the larger strings. These asymmetrical scallops helped Ritchie achieve his big bends and wild cello-like vibrato.
      Yngwie Malmsteen is the one many guitarists today associate with a scalloped fretboard. His playing was influenced by Baroque violin and cello playing, and helps him obtain a similar vibrato. Being a big fan of Ritchie Blackmore helped too.
      (Source www.seymourduncan.com/blog/the-players-room/unleashing-the-mysteries-of-a-scalloped-fingerboard)
      (y)

    • @glenkepic3208
      @glenkepic3208 4 роки тому +1

      @@fvr08 Nice bit about John. He used that ES guitar to great effect on what is now my favorite release from him "Electric Guitarist".

    • @fivewattworld
      @fivewattworld  4 роки тому +12

      Well Mathew, you got this right. Steve Vai commented and clarified this point for us all. There you go.

    • @FloridaManMatty
      @FloridaManMatty 4 роки тому +5

      five watt world At the risk of coming off like a know it all internet keyboard commando, I think
      I can help with Yngwie’s name.
      It’s silly to try to pronounce it like a native Swede, but the Americanized version is so close as to make nearly no difference at all. It took me a few attempts to get it right too, so don’t feel bad.
      Just pronounce his first name “Ing-Vay”.
      Malm rhymes with “palm”, so just try “Ing-Vay Malm-steen”
      From now on, every time I watch one of your videos, regardless of whether it’s the first time I’ve seen or or the twentieth, every time you butcher Yngwie’s name, I’m probably going to giggle out loud. That admission would be a lot funnier if you knew what I looked like and could imagine that visage giggling...
      Anyway, I absolutely LOVE this channel and how you manage to present my two favorite things: Guitars and history. If you ever need a bonafide backup guitar nerd to assist with research, writing, or editing, I’m your nerd! *Will work for fun*

  • @LucasLeCompteMusic
    @LucasLeCompteMusic 4 роки тому +3

    The older MIJ RG550 etc are are still great to this day!

  • @devlieg72
    @devlieg72 4 роки тому +10

    I've never had an Ibenez guitar. But I've got two Ibenez bowl back mandolins that were built in the early and late 1960s. They are both still great players.

  • @greekfreak1980
    @greekfreak1980 3 роки тому +8

    One thing to add: The design of the JEM was heavily influenced by Steve Vai´s "Green Meanie", which was originally a Charvel San Dimas superstrat, that Vai modded extensively over the years. Among other things, he had the cutaway widened for better upper fret access, scalloped the neck and had the H-S-H pickups with the 5-way blade switching installed by DiMarzio. All things that ended up in the design of the JEM.

  • @Bruce.t.thomas
    @Bruce.t.thomas 4 роки тому +12

    Bought my first RG last summer after being a long time Ibanez player: first band rehearsal I brought it to my other guitarist offered to buy it on the spot because he had always wanted an RG to add to his collection. That guitar is still mine and it's a workhorse.

  • @BarryMoeCraig
    @BarryMoeCraig Рік тому +1

    I was on that first David Lee Roth tour. I worked as a guitar tech for Frank Hannon of Tesla. I remember during one load in, Vai’s tech Elwood Francis, put skateboard trucks on the back of one of Vai’s axes. He was riding it around backstage. Elwood was a hoot.
    Elwood was actually Joe Perry’s tech but was moonlighting for Vai. He later became ZZ Top’s tech and has since taken the spot of bass player, after Dusty passed.
    Oh, the glory days of youth.

  • @markcatron8996
    @markcatron8996 4 роки тому +4

    Of all the guitars I own and have owned, My Ibanez RG-570 that I picked up in 1991 is still my baby, It'll never leave my collection. I still enjoy playing it today as much as I enjoyed back in early 90's.

  • @Barbarapape
    @Barbarapape 4 роки тому +6

    At last i now have all the history of the Jem and RG, i used to be a Fender buyer, but never liked their necks due to my small hands, then a friend suggested trying an Jem / RG. i now have a Jem and 2 RG's, fantastic guitars that sound as good as any fender even playing clean.

  • @freddieellis8449
    @freddieellis8449 4 роки тому +3

    I have an RG in bright yellow.
    It was the last guitar sold by a music store in my hometown before they closed down. It was quite sad because I had done my high school work experience in that store. But at least I have a memento to remember the place!
    RIP Pool’s Music, Grimsby, UK! Gone but not forgotten!

  • @timschuh6524
    @timschuh6524 4 роки тому +5

    My wife and I have watched Andy Timmons playing around the Dallas area for years. He always leaves time to meet the fans after the show, which we certainly appreciate.

  • @LeoTorresGuitar
    @LeoTorresGuitar 4 роки тому +21

    Yeeeees! You made my Saturday.

  • @pops71
    @pops71 4 роки тому +6

    Here’s my Ibanez JEM/RG Story: I was 16 the summer of 1987 when the JEM released and my most often visited (to play the “Look at all the bad @$$ licks I learned” game) Ibanez dealer Thoroughbred Music had a LNG777 Jem #137 (if my memory serves) that I wanted sooooo bad. There was one dude, Chris Knoth I dealt with all the time. He was a great player and didn’t have to sell me to hard on that Jem. They had 90 day “Lay-A-Way” with only 10% down. I scraped up the requisite $178.00 and plunked it down on Chris Knoths counter for the dream guitar. I was pretty faithful dropping cash on that guitar every week. I had seen Chris a few times already in the middle of August when I came in to pay down my balance. I overheard Knoth talking to one of the other guys about going to see Steve Vai at the Eat ‘em and Smile dress rehearsal. When it came time to pay out I asked him what was up conversation? He told me that David Lee Roth’s dad was a Dr in Lakeland and he was doing dress rehearsals at the Lakeland Civic Center before the tour started and tonight was the last night. Ibanez was making sure Thoroughbred was taken care of since they had sold so much gear. The light bulb went off and I reminded him that I was the holder of the Jem777, #137 how about getting me in. He said wait a minute, got on the phone, came and got my ticket, pointed to my last name for my approval as he talked and waked back and forth on the phone. He hung up and said, “OK your in, go to the will call window, tell them who you are and there’ll be a ticket with your name on it. Oh and make sure you bring your ID”. Sure enough, the ticket was their, and the show was there and I got to meet Mr Vai and have been a total Jem/RG guy ever since. I even made my living dealing primarily in Ibanez RG parts on e-Bay for a couple of years.

    • @Henrique_Henriques
      @Henrique_Henriques 4 роки тому

      Great Story!!!

    • @anthonycrudo2728
      @anthonycrudo2728 3 роки тому

      Yes, I remember Chris and Thoroughbred very well. I started going there in 1977 when they had that little hole in the wall shop by USF. Let's see, they sold me a Medallion Flying V ($400), a 1968 ($400) and a 1969 Les Paul Standard($475), a Floral Pattern Jem ($700) and even a first year RG555 ($175) - all used of course. I sold the V, the FP Jem and the RG555 but still have the 2 Gibsons. I bought a bunch of other stuff but it is all a blur now. Chris was like my drug dealer back then...but for guitars. I haven't heard Chris's name is decades. It' seems like a small world sometimes

  • @wesleyzimmerman94
    @wesleyzimmerman94 4 роки тому +4

    My first guitar wasn't an Ibanez but the first one I ever paid for myself was a GIO and I don't think any amount of money could make me part ways with it. It holds a place in my heart since it was the first guitar I ever bought and was what kicked me into my Ibanez addiction

  • @careycummings9999
    @careycummings9999 4 роки тому +10

    I've been waiting for this one Keith! The JEM is my "forever guitar", and I finally got a 1995 JEM 777 in Desert Yellow last year. Like a vintage car, it only comes out on special occasions, or when I'm feeling extra shreddy. It's surprisingly not as easy to play as my trusty Jackson Reverse Dinky, but it definitely has a feel all its own and sounds just amazing. One tidbit you forgot to mention was the JEM 2K DNA, which featured some of Steve's blood in the actual swirl paint job. Talk about innovation ;)

  • @DarttheLegend
    @DarttheLegend 4 роки тому +4

    I am so pleasantly surprised you covered this. now a Jackson soloist episode doesn't seem like a pipe dream anymore!

  • @ericsyre9418
    @ericsyre9418 4 роки тому +4

    Been playing an RG for the last 16 years and I tried a lot of other guitars in the meantime, ending up selling all of them and reverting to my good old RG.

  • @SolamenteVees
    @SolamenteVees 4 роки тому +5

    Keith makes a topic that’s not typically in my wheelhouse interesting enough that I’m now perusing the Ibanez website 😉
    Came for the Tele, Strat, Champ- stayed for the Jem.

  • @kevinwilson1124
    @kevinwilson1124 4 роки тому +2

    Back in 92, i bought a candy apple red RG750. It was so nice, just a wonderful guitar. Then, in late 93, i actually won a brand new Universe 7 string in a raffle. It was the black with fluorescent green knobs and pickups. The case was incredible too, rectangle with bright pink padded fuzz. I could have slept in it! Like most young guitarists, they got traded off for other gear. Today, the original Universe I had is a collectors item.

  • @cybershredder2171
    @cybershredder2171 4 роки тому

    Great video! I always look forward to these coming out.

  • @LiesThatBind
    @LiesThatBind 4 роки тому +4

    Loved it! I'm an Ibanez fan and your short history of Ibanez video was fascinating. Great job!

  • @norlynclick6824
    @norlynclick6824 4 роки тому +3

    For so many years and many guitars i always considered myself a 'vintage' / classic styles guitar guy (Gibson/Fender). But after a 15 yr hiatus from playing i found myself drawn to these models and hence to this video. I was a senior in high school when they were released and even though they are now considered 'classics' i will always consider them very cutting edge. Thanks for the video.

  • @cowtowncustoms2110
    @cowtowncustoms2110 4 роки тому

    Like always, you put out another great one!

  • @BOBXFILES2374a
    @BOBXFILES2374a 3 роки тому

    Thanks for putting this up!

  • @fprintf
    @fprintf 4 роки тому +12

    I bought an RG570 when it first came out. I had no interest in metal and if I'd done my research would have probably been happier with a plain old Strat to play my 3-chord punk/alternative. But I still have that guitar 30 years later. It isn't worth much but it represents more than 30 years of this intermediate plunking around on electric guitars so I don't get rid of it.

    • @markrogers7304
      @markrogers7304 2 роки тому +1

      Not worth much, lol...you need to check reverb on current prices. My 1991 rg570 purple color changing is around $1000 now. I paid $130 for it in 2000. My 1990 rg570 jewel blue is worth about $800-$1000 now and I paid $50 for it in 1993...lol
      They really jumped up in last couple years.

    • @fprintf
      @fprintf 2 роки тому

      @@markrogers7304 Thanks for the info, I had no idea. I need to sell it then. I've never been happy with it and would likely prefer a Tele or Strat anyway.

    • @markrogers7304
      @markrogers7304 2 роки тому

      @@fprintf now would definitely be the time. Guitar sales new and used have increased a lot in the past year,its even caused a shortage. Plus the prices of currently made in Japan guitars are up there too. If I had the cash now I'd offer to buy it.

  • @recordatron
    @recordatron 3 роки тому +6

    Really fallen down the rabbit hole with these videos. The way you deliver them is really pleasing to listen to and the videos are really well researched. You've definitely earned a sub 🙌

    • @fivewattworld
      @fivewattworld  3 роки тому +1

      Welcome to five watt world recordatron!

  • @jayavey3114
    @jayavey3114 4 роки тому

    Fantastic as always. Please don't stop doing these.

  • @rosstapson
    @rosstapson 2 роки тому

    Always enjoy these videos, thank you.

  • @BluesCast
    @BluesCast 4 роки тому +3

    Bravo! loved this Short Ibanez history episode. Though I play my various American guitars more often today. I still own my early 90's Black RG550 and Desert Yellow RG550. In 87 I was 20 and didn't have the scratch to pick up the Jem so settled for the next best thing, the RG550.

  • @1ListerofSmeg
    @1ListerofSmeg 4 роки тому +5

    Thanks Keith,
    Personally, I'm a huge fan of mid/early 80s Roadstars(II).
    I consider them the grandfathers of the gem lol.

  • @montlejohnbojangles8937
    @montlejohnbojangles8937 4 роки тому

    Fantastic video. Thanks for the all the work you put in!

  • @greglivo
    @greglivo 4 роки тому +2

    Thanks again for another one of your straightforward, no nonsense, informational gear videos. It is absolutely crazy in the United States right now (early June 2020), but your videos have provided me with a much needed moment of peace while watching during my lunchbreak at work.
    Incidentally, I met Head from Korn after a show a few years ago and he is a truly caring person and born-again Christian. He said a prayer for me for my stepmother that was nearing the end of her battle with cancer.

  • @beepboop974
    @beepboop974 4 роки тому +3

    this series is excellent, im an amateur luthier and these are my gospel.

  • @thedevilinthecircuit1414
    @thedevilinthecircuit1414 4 роки тому +3

    Great review! It's Fujigen (hard G, as in "get").

  • @kamspork8408
    @kamspork8408 4 роки тому

    I so love your videos!!! You answer questions that I didn't know I had

  • @BurntMcgurnt
    @BurntMcgurnt 4 роки тому

    Hell of a job as always man !

  • @buffalo7163
    @buffalo7163 4 роки тому +8

    Thank you for this video. Fujigen’s “ge” is supposed to be pronounced like guess’s “gue.”
    Anyways, I bought white JEM in 1996 when I was living in Japan. I still have it.

    • @fivewattworld
      @fivewattworld  4 роки тому +1

      Thanks for the help on the pronunciation man.

  • @kevin7rxxx346
    @kevin7rxxx346 4 роки тому +4

    I first noticed Vai as the Devils minion that takes in Lighting Boy in the movie Crossroads and I’ve bern a fan since 🤘🏼

  • @warner631
    @warner631 4 роки тому

    Thanks Keith! You keep cranking out what you do and I'll keep watching for as long as you do it

  • @gregguepy763
    @gregguepy763 3 роки тому +2

    When the RG came out my world was flipped upside down. I would visit this music store almost daily and stare at the RG550s and Jems. My parents co-signed a loan for me for one of their rare late 80's USA custom shop models, I was hooked. I've gone more traditional on the past years, but I find myself craving a high end RG again. Amazing guitars.

  • @gtr1952
    @gtr1952 4 роки тому +4

    That was outstanding Keith! As an old blues guy, I've never seen or had an Ibanez in my hands, and new very little about them. I do now, thanks to you! Hope you and yours are safe and well! --gary

    • @raulperez2308
      @raulperez2308 4 роки тому

      man you might wanna try a blazer, they're basically more compact strats, pretty awesome

    • @svenkaahedgerg3425
      @svenkaahedgerg3425 4 роки тому

      I've been playing blues too since I started playing in -86. Stratocaster. Try the Ibanez az premium 22 frets. Solid, sturdy and can take a fierce playing style. I switched from fender last year because it was like it was a strat designed for my way of playing. I locked the term with a piece of wood and put a 011 standard set on.

  • @Kreln1221
    @Kreln1221 4 роки тому +8

    *It's ironic that the Jem has become more iconic and far more successful than the Barretta, the guitar that inspired Ibanez to say, "We need a rockstar to do for us what Eddie Van Halen has done for Kramer..." In all honesty, that's a good thing though. I was never a fan of one pickup, 22 fret guitars... The three pickup 24 fret Jem, who's bridge can pull sharp as well as push flat, is a far more versatile instrument... Basically, the Jem can do everything the Barretta can, but the Barretta can't do everything the Jem can do... The only minor exception being that the Jem's Edge Floyd is free floating, while the original Floyd on the Barretta, being dive only with a hard stop, does provide a bit more bridge stability, which helps for tuning stability when palm muting, using double stops, going to Drop D, etc..., but with the addition of one of several tremolo stabilizers that are available on the market to a Jem, then even that one small advantage is removed...*

    • @kospandx
      @kospandx 3 роки тому

      A Baretta most definitely isn't dive-only. Kramer didn't add recessed tremolos until late 1987, after the JEM was introduced, but even before that you could pull the Floyd Rose up (to be honest, a recessed Floyd Rose has more to say for fine-tuning the height of the action and removing the need for neck shims than it does for the ability to pull up). If you've looked at Eddie's guitars, he would add a coin under the Floyds in order to make them dive-only. A more substantial difference is the slanting of the pickup. This hasn't been a long-term winner, but if can help to warm your tone, though at the expense of tightness.

  • @OldManTenno
    @OldManTenno 3 роки тому

    Great documentary. Thank you for this!

  • @BrokenStrings231
    @BrokenStrings231 Рік тому

    This was so enjoyable to watch. Nicely done!

  • @brownwrench
    @brownwrench 3 роки тому +3

    Vai used the 7 string on "Slip of the Tongue" with Whitesnake.

  • @GoodVolition
    @GoodVolition 4 роки тому +11

    Ibanez's in general were of great quality. Their necks are my favorite. Dangerously thin. I noticed around 2014 or 2015 the quality kind of went down a bit. The Artcores are my preferred ES-335 variants beating out the Epiphone Dots.

    • @pdy666
      @pdy666 4 роки тому +1

      A couple of years ago I picked up a used Ibanez Artcore Custom AS103 from 2011/2012. Its SOOO nice.

    • @glenkepic3208
      @glenkepic3208 4 роки тому +1

      I've had a SB AS73 for over 10 years now. Its great !

    • @misterknightowlandco
      @misterknightowlandco 4 роки тому +1

      Quality is going down on all gear these days. I think these companies have realized that the market has changed. It's no longer a majority of players being working musicians but basement/garage players who don't need the quality or ruggedness just a good price point. It's sad really.

    • @victorformosa2825
      @victorformosa2825 4 роки тому

      I have the artcore A75, its a very good guitar for such a low cost.

    • @andersf324
      @andersf324 4 роки тому

      Yeah. I do have an AS73 that I got for free and the fit and finish is great and plays beautifully after I benched it. PUs are good but will need to replace the rest of the electronics.

  • @shredimaster78
    @shredimaster78 3 роки тому

    Thank you for making this, 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

  • @paulsmith380
    @paulsmith380 2 роки тому

    Very informative and entertaining! Well done!

  • @justinhamilton9381
    @justinhamilton9381 4 роки тому +4

    My initial thought was ‘how much can there really be to say about the Jem?’ As usual you delivered a thoroughly researched video that kept me fascinated the whole way through and gave me a new appreciation for the subject. Way to go Keith!!

  • @sammyrabon7736
    @sammyrabon7736 4 роки тому +3

    I’m a fender guy but I thoroughly enjoyed this Keith. Another Home Run.

    • @fivewattworld
      @fivewattworld  4 роки тому +2

      Thanks Sammy, I’m sort of right there with you..,but it’s a great story and Steve’s a great guy.

    • @adamrichards2072
      @adamrichards2072 4 роки тому

      Also a fender guy. Have a custom shop strat. Still use my j craft rg though and gets that 2 and 4 position sound spot on. Definitely worth a try if you're into it.

  • @mikebryant8922
    @mikebryant8922 4 роки тому

    Really interesting video as always. These short histories are anything but short in content and attention to detail. Thanks a lot!

  • @elenbrandt290
    @elenbrandt290 4 роки тому

    Fascinating - thank you very much!

  • @truckercowboyed2638
    @truckercowboyed2638 4 роки тому +4

    How about another metal head brand. Do a history on Jackson or Schecter!!

  • @firewalker6712
    @firewalker6712 4 роки тому +14

    Great! Next you should do Eddie's Ernie Ball Music Man and Wolfgang guitars.

    • @Knightmare-gz9ls
      @Knightmare-gz9ls 4 роки тому +2

      The entire Wolfgang series would be cool. The Ernie ball, peavey, and the new evh

    • @avgjoegat8126
      @avgjoegat8126 4 роки тому

      I was thinking the same thing but covering his guitar's evolution

    • @firewalker6712
      @firewalker6712 4 роки тому

      @@avgjoegat8126 Yeah he could do all of them.

    • @Malum09
      @Malum09 3 роки тому

      Ernie Ball Music Man would be interesting

  • @chuwy2k
    @chuwy2k 3 роки тому

    This was sooooo awesome, thanks for share this knoledge with all of us, it's great for a new year learning things.

  • @grinder2401
    @grinder2401 4 роки тому +1

    I have an Ibanez RG550LTD (all black with a mirror pickguard) made in Japan by the infamous FugjiGen factory (according to the S/N it's a February 1998 build). It was a gift from my parents when I made it to university after finishing high school. 22 years have passed since then, but I still remember the conversation very vividly: My mom asked me what I 'd like to have for my success and without hesitation I said an electric guitar. "But you already have one" she noted to which I responded "So? That's what I want. Thank you". I was targeting an all white Gibson Explorer with no pickguard, but it was too expensive. I ended up paying a visit to almost all the major music stores in the city centre where I lived at the time trying superstrats when I saw the RG. Immediately fell in love with the Wizard neck and the overall looks. So, I eventually ordered it from my local music shop. As I was getting more and more into heavy music some years later I discovered that Glenn Tipton from Judas Priest (my favourite band) had a Fender Strat with similar looks (black, mirror pickguard). So another reason to love it :) Apparently, I still have the guitar. She's actually next to me together with my ESP Edwards Explorer (yeah I finally got an Explorer :p) and my PRS. Here is a photo of the family: tinyurl.com/ybbq8umk And that's my story with the RG. Thanks for the great video Keith :)

  • @michaelbashford2733
    @michaelbashford2733 4 роки тому +3

    I swear by RG's. I have 4 electric guitars and 3 of them are RG's.

  • @Flyingcybersec
    @Flyingcybersec 4 роки тому +11

    New FWW day, and Led Zep releasing celebration day. Is this a dream?

    • @moabt.frican7163
      @moabt.frican7163 4 роки тому

      @Chris Huntington yes it is and its also a wet dream

  • @LucasR-xl4sl
    @LucasR-xl4sl 4 роки тому

    Great video, thanks for making it, love the whole series! =)

  • @Stratocus
    @Stratocus 4 роки тому

    Always informative and entertaining.

  • @mariogamutan6513
    @mariogamutan6513 4 роки тому +13

    Should it be Ibanez be pronounced as " ee BA nyez " since the name is derived from a Spanish name?

    • @WizardOfArc
      @WizardOfArc 4 роки тому

      The image of Salvador Ibañez name definitely has the ñ.... so maybe it should be?

    • @zachthomas7810
      @zachthomas7810 4 роки тому +2

      English speakers usually just say “eye-bun-ez”

    • @toneseeker4968
      @toneseeker4968 4 роки тому

      I thought Ibanez guitars are a Japanese company... not a Spanish company...

    • @davisphillips6409
      @davisphillips6409 4 роки тому +2

      @@toneseeker4968 That is explained in the video. They were originally built in Spain by someone whose surname was Ibanez but they shifted production factories in Japan and kept the name.

    • @davisphillips6409
      @davisphillips6409 4 роки тому +2

      Depends on who you talk to, my Hispanic friends pronounce it correctly, but they are the only ones. I just use the Americanized name because it's what I grew up thinking the name was and change is hard. Also people don't always know what you're talking about.

  • @sneekinaboutom9450
    @sneekinaboutom9450 3 роки тому

    Amazing... As usual... Thanks Keith!

  • @doughipp6415
    @doughipp6415 4 роки тому

    Another outstanding video! Made my Saturday morning.

  • @timlyons5191
    @timlyons5191 4 роки тому

    Great stuff please keep up such informative content

  • @Duke60Duke60
    @Duke60Duke60 4 роки тому

    Fantastic video. I've been anticipating this one! I absolutely love my RG.

  • @sidneysnottley6414
    @sidneysnottley6414 4 роки тому +1

    Always look forward to a new addition to the ' short history' series - Informative , authoritative & entertaining - A great enduring resource - Thanks

  • @philfrank5601
    @philfrank5601 4 роки тому

    I was just thinking about these guitars and when they would get your treatment, awesome!

  • @joeyfarley9916
    @joeyfarley9916 4 роки тому

    so informative like always! I love your show format its so professional very good info every time. I have watched every single short history most of them more then once.

  • @KeyanHoushmandLive
    @KeyanHoushmandLive 4 роки тому

    This was such an amazingly composed and insightful video. Loved every single second of it, thank you!

  • @IAmTheIsland
    @IAmTheIsland 4 роки тому +1

    These videos are such a pleasure to watch and listen to. It has a well-researched podcast feel.

  • @angel2of7death
    @angel2of7death 3 роки тому

    So glad I stumbled across this channel. Freakin solid

  • @youssefkasim7556
    @youssefkasim7556 4 роки тому +1

    Love the work that was put into making this video.

  • @dlemon90
    @dlemon90 4 роки тому +1

    such an awesome channel... as always, very well researched and interesting!

  • @Hermiel
    @Hermiel 4 роки тому

    Another top-notch watch. Really well done. Highly enjoyable.

  • @brianstrawser5695
    @brianstrawser5695 4 роки тому

    Stellar as always.

  • @AllenWilliams25
    @AllenWilliams25 4 роки тому +1

    I have always wanted a ibanez when i was 11 yrs old. I am now i proud owner of a ibanez RG series 320fm from Japan. Im loving this amber color with flame maple top.😌

  • @zazoomatt
    @zazoomatt 4 роки тому +1

    Carving Your OWN History Keith as your documentaries are Stellar. Crisp, Insightful and carving a Groundswell of Interest in every product Presented. Thank You .

  • @JasonChannell
    @JasonChannell 4 роки тому

    Great work again Keith.

  • @1skatinggamerchannel
    @1skatinggamerchannel 4 роки тому

    Great video, really enjoyable! Keep up the good work sir

  • @fordhammie
    @fordhammie Рік тому

    I'm grateful for youtube shows like this 5WATT!

  • @teemunator
    @teemunator 2 роки тому

    Brilliant video. Cheers!

  • @andreyvanakoff9412
    @andreyvanakoff9412 3 роки тому +1

    I'm a happy owner of RG521Genesis. In the neck pickup (3.5mm), i have Gibson Les Paul and Fender between Tele and Strat (on a coil split). At the bridge (2.2mm) i have shredder/rock/metal machine called Ibanez. The most comfortable guitar. The best build quality, 11/10.

  • @MarcGuitarVideos
    @MarcGuitarVideos 4 роки тому

    Another excellent documentary!

  • @monno2600
    @monno2600 4 роки тому

    Amazing, love these video's!

  • @AnthonyBrown-qt4qd
    @AnthonyBrown-qt4qd 3 роки тому

    Thank you so much!! I love Ibanez so much!!

  • @thebutton7932
    @thebutton7932 3 роки тому

    Another excellent History highlight, Keith. . . really interesting, thanks

  • @lucasmooy2922
    @lucasmooy2922 4 роки тому

    Yes!! Thank you so much sir!

  • @Nonexistanthuman
    @Nonexistanthuman 4 роки тому +2

    I remember you liking my comment about asking if you could do the Ibanez series of guitars. Glad the video is out :))))))

  • @HakusW140
    @HakusW140 4 роки тому

    Fantastic. Filled in many gaps in my Ibanez knowledge. Thank you for This!

  • @coreyrenstrom
    @coreyrenstrom 2 роки тому

    That was fantastic what a great episode

  • @djrbfmbfm-woa
    @djrbfmbfm-woa 4 роки тому

    thank you for your hard work and excellent histories. j.

  • @78tag
    @78tag 4 роки тому +1

    Another quality session - thank you.