Leo Fender and the Birth of the G&L Broadcaster/ASAT - Ask Zac 188

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  • Опубліковано 29 січ 2024
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    Ever wondered how Leo Fender came around to making the G&L Broadcaster after a decade of Music Man guitars, and the early G&L designs with active electronics and too many knobs and switches? The truth is better than fiction here, and you're going to love to hear what motivated Leo to return to his roots, with a twist to save his pride. I also share the story of the early G&L ASAT I use in the video that was formerly owned by John Jorgenson and is now in the possession of Brad Paisley.
    Gear used:
    1987 G&L ASAT formerly owned by John Jorgenson, now owned by Brad Paisley
    Strings:
    EB 10-46
    Pick:
    Pick Boy Small Jazz, Tortoise Shell, 1.00mm
    Effects: Boss DM-3
    Amp:
    1964 Vox AC10.
    #bradpaisley #gandlguitars #johnjorgenson

КОМЕНТАРІ • 672

  • @GL_Guitars
    @GL_Guitars 2 місяці тому +121

    What a wonderful presentation. I don’t think I ever heard the Jeff Ross story with what must have been a G&L F•100 guitar. Thank you, Zac! - Dave McLaren

    • @louisvandenberg2153
      @louisvandenberg2153 2 місяці тому +8

      Yes. The F-100. I agreed with Leo. It was a sophisticated, powerful instrument. I love mine.

    • @richmaloof9710
      @richmaloof9710 2 місяці тому +5

      Love the stories. Dave - You were walking through the old Sam Ash on 48th Street in NYC (formerly Manny’s) around 2005 and recommended I buy the blond 1988 Leo sig ASAT that I was playing. Gave me your card. I had been dating that G&L for weeks but didn’t have the scratch. Two babies at home, etc. After years searching, I found the same model again and now we’re inseparable...except for my other G&L. Cheers.

  • @jupiterlegrand4817
    @jupiterlegrand4817 3 місяці тому +94

    I was at the (I believe it was) 1981 NAMM show, at the G&L "hospitality" suite (Inn At The Park?). Anyhow, I was playing a guitar and didn't see that anyone was watching me. I looked up and there was Leo Fender listening to me. He said "Very nice, young man". My mind was cancelled out. There is the man...THE man...without him, there IS no Jimi or Eric or Ritchie or anyone. Talk about star-struck! What an honor, and what a compliment. I'll never forget that. Thank you for everything, Leo.

    • @forester057
      @forester057 3 місяці тому +5

      Cool story but guitars are Just tools man. That’s like saying a carpenter couldn’t exist without Stanley or Crapsman (as I like to call it). The art would’ve sounded different but the art would’ve existed. I love Fenders though. Strat and Tele can make any music I want to make. Strat is enough really.

    • @christianlacheze3323
      @christianlacheze3323 2 місяці тому +5

      I am a lifelong diehard fan of Fender guitars and amps, but Jimi, Eric, Ritchie would definitely have existed without them: they could play any guitar, and in effect never limited themselves to Fenders.
      However, Charlie Christian and beyond him modern jazz guitar would not have existed without the Gibson ES-150 .
      To me, Fender’s most important breakthrough is the electric bass guitar.

    • @caiusmadison2996
      @caiusmadison2996 2 місяці тому +13

      ​@forester057 stop being negative without reason. What us the purpose or additional boost gained in anything you said? None is the answer. You simply wasted everyone's time to be a dick.

    • @hawnyfox3411
      @hawnyfox3411 2 місяці тому +3

      @@caiusmadison2996 = Well said & such a hilarious riposte - (& thanks for making me laugh !)

    • @jeffmancuso2715
      @jeffmancuso2715 2 місяці тому +1

      Great story, couldn’t imagine meeting Leo.

  • @mikedesensi6391
    @mikedesensi6391 3 місяці тому +49

    I floated all over the G&L plant in the 90's,hand cut the first "F" hole and was involved in the LB100 bass and Legacy hard tail, add to that , all the tooling I made,............amazing

    • @chipgaasche4933
      @chipgaasche4933 2 місяці тому

      ??

    • @plane_guy6051
      @plane_guy6051 2 місяці тому

      I'm confused too. Are you saying you were a genius who made a lot of the tooling, or that it was a cool place to work?

    • @mikedesensi6391
      @mikedesensi6391 2 місяці тому +5

      @@plane_guy6051 I was just a machinist that had alot of hands on experence with guitars ,and was by no meens a genius by any stretch

  • @bradpirochta9293
    @bradpirochta9293 2 місяці тому +48

    Love G&Ls. Great story. Leo never stopped innovating. Truly an American legend.

  • @OldWhitebelly
    @OldWhitebelly 3 місяці тому +32

    I was a G&L dealer in the 2000s. It's easy for instrument dealers to become jaded, but there were two brands where every instrument made me sad to see it go while happy to put it in the hands of its new owner-Larrivee and G&L. We actually had a silver sparkle ASAT that we kept in the store for about a year before letting go of it-what a damn fun instrument it was. Damn, I'd sure love to have that guitar back.

    • @darwinia8
      @darwinia8 2 місяці тому +6

      I'm not much of a player, but apparently I have good taste, as I own a G&L Asat, a G&L Doheny, and a Larrivee D-03 acoustic!

    • @reddsshaker3477
      @reddsshaker3477 2 місяці тому +3

      I tried to buy a brand new G&L ASAT from our local guitar shop in the early ‘90s. Every one we pulled off of the wall had issues. First one had microphonic pickups. Second one had a dead neck pickup. Third had razor sharp fret ends, and lousy fretwork in general. First impressions……

    • @OldWhitebelly
      @OldWhitebelly 2 місяці тому +4

      @@reddsshaker3477 By the time I was selling them, they were the only US guitars that arrived set up well from the factory; I guess they took some time to figure it out. The only other brand that was a well sorted-out was...wait for it...Samick. I dropped Fender in 2002 because of the absolute shit QC.

    • @BuskAGroove
      @BuskAGroove 2 місяці тому

      Welcome to the BBE-era of G&L. Leo would not be pleased nor positively impressed. Dale Hyatt sure wasn’t.

  • @brucepaxton2471
    @brucepaxton2471 3 місяці тому +73

    It's great to hear some of the back stories and the history of Leo and his guitars. I was born about a 20-minute drive from Leo's shop while he was developing the Strat (1953). These episodes are always enlightening, and entertaining.

    • @rosewoodsteel6656
      @rosewoodsteel6656 2 місяці тому

      Wow! Did you ever stop by Leo's shop back in the day?

    • @brucepaxton2471
      @brucepaxton2471 2 місяці тому

      I rode my bike by there a few times on my way up to the Brea foothills back in the 60's. Shoulda, woulda, coulda!@@rosewoodsteel6656

    • @dennismadderra3916
      @dennismadderra3916 2 місяці тому +1

      My grandfather worked as an engineer for Leo. He taught my father to solder working on Strat prototypes. My aunt still has one, it was in the Fender museum in Corona for years. I’ve heard some fun stories about Friday night testing in Newport Beach.

  • @scotthoughton1802
    @scotthoughton1802 3 місяці тому +43

    I got a black 86 ASAT in college- saw an ad at my local guitar shop and took all my money in the world and got it for myself that Christmas. made the mistake of selling it some years later. during the pandemic was able to track down an identical one and bought it as quickly as I could. not only does it sound awesome, it takes me back to those college days where I had no money to do anything other than play my guitar with all my spare time. thx for this episode- great story.

    • @user-iv5gy3rc2b
      @user-iv5gy3rc2b 2 місяці тому

      I recall the only colors in the brochure were classic sunburst, black, and white.

    • @lostreb
      @lostreb 2 місяці тому +3

      We all regret having to sell what are important to us because of circumstances. And still get totally P*$$ED off every time we think about what "life" forced us to do. I'm just glad you could find something that was close enough to what you had to sacrifice.

    • @clintwilson6380
      @clintwilson6380 2 місяці тому +1

      Scott, are you still pining & searching for your original, or are you OK with everything now. Your story reminded me of an old Fender Mustang I needed to sell before I got married. I think of that Sonic Blue Baby every single day...

  • @bhhNC
    @bhhNC 3 місяці тому +37

    Me and my wife almost teared-up at how sweet a thing you did for your old college buddy, Zac. That instrument has some road tales.

  • @upload2352
    @upload2352 3 місяці тому +30

    For those who do not know, G&L offers 2 types of MFD pickups - regular and jumbo. The regular pickups, found in the "ASAT" (and a couple of others), are closer to tele pickups, while the "jumbo" MFD (the ones in the this video's guitar) are found in the Asat Special (and a couple of others). The jumbo MFD have the sound Zac is discussing. This is "current production" info - it may have been different back in the '80s-/90s.

  • @SoundCastle00
    @SoundCastle00 3 місяці тому +25

    Zac Childs.
    The greatest American story teller that ever lived😊

    • @joeltunnah
      @joeltunnah 3 місяці тому +3

      He's the Garrison Keillor of the guitar.

    • @PhpGtr
      @PhpGtr 2 місяці тому +2

      How can he be? There aren't jump cuts in between every 5 words!

  • @NickRatnieks
    @NickRatnieks 3 місяці тому +37

    A great analysis of these guitars from G & L. Back in July 1993, Guitar Player did a "Gods of the Telecaster" issue. There were reviews of all manner of Teles but the magazine asked the reviewers to nominate the guitar they most liked and it was the ASAT Classic that was chosen from the many that were given the top scores. I decided to get one and finally bought one at Manny's Music in 1995. A friend of mine who has played Teles and Esquires since the early 60s has always said it is the perfect Telecaster style guitar from his many years of experience. For some odd reason, these guitars never generated the following they deserved, which is a shame.

    • @468string
      @468string 3 місяці тому +7

      I fondly recall that GP issue, after reading that Tele shootout I ended up getting 2 ASAT Classics later on, great guitars! I wish I still had them now.

    • @TexanUSMC8089
      @TexanUSMC8089 2 місяці тому +3

      G&L are still selling. I see people playing them all the time.

    • @l.l.c.
      @l.l.c. 2 місяці тому +1

      @@TexanUSMC8089I have 3. ASAT Tribute Classic, Fullerton Deluxe S 500, Legacy USA. I luv all three. I had a George Fullerton Signature with the V cut maple neck. Sold it years ago in a moment of weakness. Wish I still had it. Great guitars.

  • @ci3008
    @ci3008 2 місяці тому +31

    I've known Jeff Ross since the late 70s when I managed a small music store that Jeff gave lessons at. He has always been a Tele guy. He's one of the best at Tele/Steel guitar bends. He later became Leo's favorite demo man at the G&L NAMM booth. That is not the only guitar given to Jeff by Leo that was stolen. Leo also gave Jeff an early 50s Tele which was stolen out of his car. Great review on the history of this guitar.

    • @colinfarel
      @colinfarel 2 місяці тому +4

      I wonder if these thieves stalk musicians or are friends of the workers at these places who steal these instruments?
      Through the decades we hear almost every musician talk about stuff people stole when they were on tour etc

    • @boxerfencer
      @boxerfencer 2 місяці тому

      @@colinfarel probably friends of people with passes who work on some low level jobs, which is how they get past security at shows.
      Of course most of these people are dirt low scum bags which is why they just go along with what ever opportunistic thievery their friends come up with.

    • @corndog2835
      @corndog2835 2 місяці тому +2

      Yes, thieves stalk musicians at shows. It's very common in Nashville.

    • @boxerfencer
      @boxerfencer 2 місяці тому

      Strange, I was wondering why I was notified of this last comment, as I don't see a message of mine herein. That was untill I recalled I did post a comment, only it got deleted.
      It wasn't political or dark humoured, so I don't think youtube deleted. Strange, very strange.

    • @russblack443
      @russblack443 2 місяці тому

      Steve Jones from the sex pistols ripped off all kinds of gear from the Hammersmith Odeon in London. Pretty much all of the equipment on never mind the Bollocks or any old sex pistols footage was hot. That's why him and Paul Cook started a band. The fender super reverb that he used was stolen from Bob Marley. I am from the Detroit area and have a older friend that used to steal equipment from Cobo Hall all of the Time. He has a hagstrom Swede that was stolen from Bob Seger. One of Frank Zappa's gold too Les Paul's that was stolen in the 70's just sold at auction in the UK. It is very common for equipment to be stolen. ​@@colinfarel

  • @brokenacoustic
    @brokenacoustic 3 місяці тому +22

    My dad and his buddy were huge G&L collectors back in the day, my dad had the only two lefty Broadcasters, and they had I think 3 of the Interceptors, and they managed to find me one of the original 12 test runs they did for the silver sparkle finish on the Asat. Between the two of them, they've played a lot of different guitars over the years, but they still stand by G&L.

    • @1johnnygunn
      @1johnnygunn 2 місяці тому +1

      I'd love to play any lefty I can get ahold of.

  • @bassyey
    @bassyey 2 місяці тому +7

    Leo is a great inspiration. He's clearly proud of his work and knowledge to the point that he'll get mad if you mock him. But he's still humble enough to acknowledge when something is wrong. Admit the problem and solve it. We can apply that to anything in our life.

  • @imannonymous7707
    @imannonymous7707 3 місяці тому +16

    This is a great channel, never miss an episode

  • @picksalot1
    @picksalot1 3 місяці тому +3

    What a great story to be part of. Thanks for sharing it. You've had some wonderful blessings in your life.

  • @AT-27182
    @AT-27182 3 місяці тому +9

    Beautiful, multifaceted story. Thank you.

  • @MrGavinspoppop
    @MrGavinspoppop 2 місяці тому +2

    I absolutely love stories about Leo and all the pioneers of the guitar industry. Thanks so much for showing us that tele and it's history... really enjoyed it !!!

  • @keenedgedesigns
    @keenedgedesigns 3 місяці тому +4

    I have that exact guitar as an ASAT and have loved it for more than 30 years. Great story Zac.

  • @fourtoon
    @fourtoon 3 місяці тому +8

    You are a great story teller Zac! I particularly liked this episode since I have been a huge John Jorgenson fan since the Hellecaster days. I liked how you seamlessly wound the Jeff Ross story all the way from the beginning through the presentation of the guitar to Brad! Oh, the opening where you were playing the ASAT, that last little flurry of licks you played caught my attention!!! I really enjoy this show and the entertaining guests you have on TruTone Lounge! You add a lot of value to the world of guitar!

  • @GuiitarBilly
    @GuiitarBilly 3 місяці тому +12

    Thanks for this, I’m a longtime G&L fan and appreciate the history lesson. Love the story about the JJ guitar going to Brad. My brother was Desert Rose Band’s road manager from 1988ish-91 and I saw them several times. I recall when he mentioned John was having trouble keeping his vintage Vox AC30s up and running on tour and that a tech he knew in LA was building him a more roadworthy take on a Vox. These new amps worked out and were eventually commercially released under the name ‘Matchless”..
    After DRB I followed John to the Hellecasters, saw them live twice-something I now consider fortunate as they toured relatively little. I also went to an artists performance /personal appearance at a local music store where they played a few things from their just released first album ‘Return of..”, told stories and answered questions. It was sponsored by G&L guitars. Looking back it was kind of priceless, a group of 10 or 15 of us tele freaks getting to talk to JJ, Jerry and Will and listen to them do some amazing playing over rhythm tracks from the album.
    Afterward I went into the store’s showroom and played my first G&L. I didn’t buy the ASAT Classic i demoed that day but I did buy different one not long after. I still have it.

  • @iamanovercomer3253
    @iamanovercomer3253 3 місяці тому +3

    And Leo Fender didn't play a guitar, yet made the best 🎸 ever ‼️

  • @tomburkhardt811
    @tomburkhardt811 3 місяці тому +18

    Wow! You outdid yourself on this story Zac. I was really wrapped into hearing this as you progressed. Thanks for sharing your insight with us common folk. If it wasn't for you, we would hardly ever get the kind of insight to country music and the business the way that an insider can tell about it. Once again, greatly appreciated, fine, fine job sir!😅 Ooooo, I almost forgot, thanks for explaining the name ASAT. I have always wondered where that word came from. I never thought about it being an acronym.

  • @mattskillman
    @mattskillman 3 місяці тому +5

    Really enjoyed this one. Always love learning the history behind the guitars. To be honest, I knew very little about G&L, so this video really taught me a lot about the company.

  • @tedboatright8924
    @tedboatright8924 3 місяці тому

    Zak I always enjoy each episode, they are always, historical, technical, informative in all areas and generally pleasurable to watch. I look forward to each new episode. Thanks 👍.

  • @stevec.1802
    @stevec.1802 2 місяці тому +4

    Thanks Zak-
    A wonderful back story presentation. I bought an ASAT Special in 2002 and still have it to this today.

  • @angusorvid8840
    @angusorvid8840 3 місяці тому +11

    Excellent video Zac! I love learning about G&L and anything about Leo Fender. I absolutely love G&L. I always thought of G&L as the genius of Leo Fender unleashed. The ASATs for me always embodied everything the tele could have been but never was.

  • @TheyreStillOutThere
    @TheyreStillOutThere 3 місяці тому +11

    Found a Broadcaster a few years ago, had the little tag in the neck pocket signed by Leo. The pickups were ridiculously hot. Interesting and rare guitars.

  • @TheMoodyLoners
    @TheMoodyLoners 3 місяці тому +3

    Really appreciate the further background and depth you provided on the history of G&L. Owned an early 90's ASAT special and have to say that no other manufacturer offered equal build quality at that price point.

  • @dancotterman1267
    @dancotterman1267 2 місяці тому +2

    Leo’s story is just so amazing. His guitar and amp designs are going stronger now than ever. RIP Mr, Leo Fender. You changed and molded the music industry like no other. I’m happy to have owned an original 1950’s era Strat. Good job on the story thumbs w!

  • @PocketDelicious
    @PocketDelicious 2 місяці тому

    He was stories like this are exactly why the internet is amazing sometimes. I'm so glad stories like this have ways of being told. Thank you for sharing this.

  • @OTOss8
    @OTOss8 2 місяці тому +1

    This is the first video of yours I've ever watched and I've gotta say, you're an excellent storyteller. I'm really looking forward to your next videos and I'll be happily watching your back catalogue in the days to come. Cheers.

  • @InsolentMusicalPeasant
    @InsolentMusicalPeasant 3 місяці тому

    Love this channel for keeping these stories alive.

  • @garybratton7756
    @garybratton7756 2 місяці тому

    Great video and story, as ever. Thanks, Zac! My uncle had what must have been a pretty early ASAT when I first started playing. Even back then, I never had much interest in it. He and the guitar are gone now, but at least you have helped me learn to appreciate it. RIP Leo. RIP uncle Pete.

  • @dukeofearl4117
    @dukeofearl4117 2 місяці тому

    I grew up in the 60’s and everyone had a Fender guitar and amp, including me. Leo made a huge impact on the music industry. Your story kept me captivated till the end. It’s so cool that Brad has it and cherishes it. I’m so glad you were there and was instrumental in getting Sony to get him this guitar.

  • @zachjarrett8730
    @zachjarrett8730 3 місяці тому +7

    Own a 89 ASAT 0:37 and love it. One of the most 3D sounding guitars.
    Of all my guitars this stands alone as the top of the hill. Love the neck profile, width, and radius.

  • @PastaPatate
    @PastaPatate 3 місяці тому +2

    Love my G&L’s, happy you’re giving G&L a little time of the day. Great video Zac.

  • @markmorris8553
    @markmorris8553 2 місяці тому

    I have only watched a few of your episodes and have enjoyed them all. Seeing this today has entertained and informed me. I am now a big fan. Thank you for your research and for sharing these stories.

  • @chrislestermusic
    @chrislestermusic 3 місяці тому +17

    What a wonderful backstory to the beginning of G&L and a sweet story of John passing his guitar on to Brad. Its nice to hear that Brad wanted you in the photo.
    I had an endorsement with G&L in 1990 and Dale Hyatt treated me like a star instead of some podunk kid from New Hampshire. He was a very nice man and I will always treasure that experience.

    • @BuskAGroove
      @BuskAGroove 3 місяці тому +1

      You’re a lucky guy. I would have loved to have met Dale. He made G&L shine. There’s a NAMM interview with Dale from 2007 detailing his life & experiences. It’s not on YT. Just google Dale Hyatt NAMM Interview & click on Full Interview.
      There’s also a G&L factory tour guided by Dale on YT posted by the band, Band of Susan’s from 1988. Its kind of erratic but its a cool snapshot in time & gives great insider’s look to the original G&L factory & its operations. Sounds like you were there & probably more than once but thought you might dig seeing it nonetheless.

  • @geminidreamno2
    @geminidreamno2 3 місяці тому

    Thank you for this great Leo Fender history lesson. It was also nice to hear something about your history. I had no idea who you were, other than just another youtube blogger until now. I bought a G&L ASAT Deluxe last year, and I love it. It is my favorite guitar right now.

  • @taylorfusion
    @taylorfusion 2 місяці тому +1

    What a fantastic tribute and oral history bringing full circle the kind of love only hard core musicians will ever appreciate. You sounded like you were getting a little choked up there by the time of the Paisley celebration (got me too). I felt the heart in that terrific story.
    This was a great one Zac, thanks!

  • @Gogreenoo3
    @Gogreenoo3 2 місяці тому +1

    What a great story! I learned a lot more than I ever knew. My second guitar was the first one I purchased myself, a 1999 G&L Legacy I was young and didn’t really know what I was buying, but all these years later, I know it was a smart choice.

  • @gregormcgregor7522
    @gregormcgregor7522 3 місяці тому +1

    Another great episode! Loved the history of G&L and that guitar. Thanks so much!❤

  • @lynnfrancesanderson1829
    @lynnfrancesanderson1829 2 місяці тому

    Great story! I love listening to all the things you share about the history of guitars and the people who play them!

  • @timothycormier3494
    @timothycormier3494 2 місяці тому

    As collectors we love the story behind the things that we collect. Cars, guitars,art and everything else. That guitar has a great story behind it and besides it being a beautiful piece of kit. It’s got that roundabout path back to Leo fender. Very cool! Thank you for sharing that story!!

  • @wendyandgeoffpattison2610
    @wendyandgeoffpattison2610 3 місяці тому

    Zac, that is probably the coolest video I've ever seen on YT. What a wonderful back story behind that guitar. Thanks for that.

  • @johnbotsford6897
    @johnbotsford6897 3 місяці тому +3

    I NEVER listen to C&W but I've heard of a couple of these guys. Never the less this is a great story. That awesome guitar has never been sold only given!

  • @anthonymcgill8035
    @anthonymcgill8035 3 місяці тому

    Zac, terrific episode. Appreciate the time and effort that goes into this.

  • @1953BobF
    @1953BobF 2 місяці тому

    Great job Zac, that was a terrific story and your presentation was flawless. I wish I had the gift of presenting a video half as much as yourself. It kept my attention the entire time.
    Bob

  • @emr11films
    @emr11films 2 місяці тому +1

    Such a great story, WOW...the history....! Thank you for sharing Zac!

  • @Bassman2353
    @Bassman2353 22 дні тому

    I bought my ASAT in 1986. Picked it up, played it and that was that. Been my good friend ever since.

  • @johnhardin8601
    @johnhardin8601 3 місяці тому +4

    Now, that was one cool story and I don't say this very often. I always wanted a Good G&L guitar but could never afford one and sure can't today as life has prevented me from ever getting one. I love their pickups and the bridge. I really enjoyed this.I love the story of Leo Fender. I am old now and will never get one but that is ok. Thanks for the story.

  • @BrianVallotton
    @BrianVallotton 3 місяці тому

    Wow! Great story and told so well. God bless you and all you love Zac.

  • @Chrosa
    @Chrosa 3 місяці тому

    I have been waiting for the G&L episode for years. Thanks so much Zac

  • @andysanchez1
    @andysanchez1 3 місяці тому +1

    This is my favorite video you’ve made so far, thanks what a terrific story

  • @jmfd7168
    @jmfd7168 3 місяці тому

    I feel so privileged to be able hear these great stories, you really take us to great moments in time and touch my heart. All my friends call me JMFD but it has nothing to do with the pickups! That's a story for another time, LOL. This was a great way to start my workday. I hope you have a glorious day. Blessings to you and your family.

  • @markcress7484
    @markcress7484 3 місяці тому

    Great story Zac!! Leo's designs and innovations still amaze me to this day! Thank you for this history lesson and the story of John gifting that amazing guitar to Brad!! Your stories are the reason I've subscribed to your channel!! 😀😀😀

  • @spikeafrican8797
    @spikeafrican8797 3 місяці тому

    I just love that. Leo was a hero to me and it's nice the hear these inside stories documented for history. Great job Zac.

  • @MetalTerrorist
    @MetalTerrorist 3 місяці тому

    Fantastic story! Thanks for sharing it with us.

  • @rosewoodsteel6656
    @rosewoodsteel6656 3 місяці тому

    You are such a good story teller! Thank you for sharing this with us.

  • @hasserl
    @hasserl 3 місяці тому +2

    Maybe the best show you've done to date Zac, really great stories.

  • @philipmarsh3522
    @philipmarsh3522 2 місяці тому

    My first really professional guitar was a G&L ASAT, with the semi-hollow body and the Seymour Duncan humbucker in the neck position. Beautiful instrument. It’s been my primary guitar for many years now. That bridge pickup is just perfect, not quite as twangy as a telecaster pickup and so much more expressive than what you get with a humbucker. Kind of the perfect guitar for me and I just love it.

  • @nazmoking3171
    @nazmoking3171 2 місяці тому

    Now that’s some great storytelling right there! Absolutely loved it. John Jorgensen is one of my favorites so Zac was so lucky to get this guitar from one of the greats for show and tell!

  • @mattrodela2030
    @mattrodela2030 Місяць тому

    Thank you for sharing these great stories! You play and sound great.

  • @gdkopinionator4356
    @gdkopinionator4356 3 місяці тому

    Amongst all of the UA-cam guitar channels, "Ask Zac" has rapidly developed a reputation as a "Fluff Free Channel". Thank you for your on-topic work Zac. This channel is a great reference for students and tonemeisters alike!

  • @carlton1390
    @carlton1390 3 місяці тому +1

    Fantastic video! Great information and stories! Thank you.I read that Dale Hyatt worked up the Broadcaster model while Leo was on holiday. Leo was initially unhappy about the use of the old body shape but came around when the response from dealers and players was so positive (hardly surprising). Leo always studied other company's designs and often interpreted them in his own way. In the 70s/80s he was influenced by Alembic (onboard preamps), Dimarzio (ceramic pickups with adjustable poles), and Badass (high mass bridges). It's very tough for anyone that has to compete with their own (extremely successful) past!

    • @BuskAGroove
      @BuskAGroove 3 місяці тому +2

      Yes indeed. Leo also liked Dale’s ingenious scheme to use the Broadcaster name again. Leo told Dale tho he didn’t want to spend any time or $ in court so Dale devised a plan to avoid that. Bottom line, the brilliant marketing ploy made a big splash & put G&L on the map.
      Fun fact, Dale & Lloyd Chewning found an old Esquire body laying around & traced it’s outline on a piece of plywood. Dale made a few slight changes to the shape… & the rest is history

  • @rcbaylis
    @rcbaylis 2 місяці тому +1

    What a great story! Due to the algorithms of UA-cam, I fell upon this as my first video. I really enjoyed the story telling and I'm looking forward to watching your other videos on the channel. A new fan.

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 місяці тому

      Welcome aboard!

  • @jamasters62
    @jamasters62 3 місяці тому

    What a fun video! Thanks for the great stories about Leo, G&L, and your ASAT's history.

  • @derekhand7904
    @derekhand7904 3 місяці тому +8

    I think it’s kinda funny the Leo invented these iconic guitars, and tried improving on them through out his life, but the guitar community has always rejected any changes for the most part.

    • @jimdixon3470
      @jimdixon3470 2 місяці тому

      Duke Ellington supposedly used to say "'My greatest competition isn't Basie or anyone else, it's the old Ellington.” Visually speaking, the Telecaster is perfection. The guitar community is fine with tweaking the pickups, the neck thickness, and other aspects of the Telecaster, but it wants that beautiful "supermodel" look that Leo came up with in the beginning. Unfortunately for Leo, Fender owned the look (the "trade dress" as the lawyers say), and all his technical innovations couldn't buy that vibe he'd created at the start. But obviously the G&L instruments found a following, if not on the same scale.

  • @guitareveryone
    @guitareveryone 3 місяці тому

    Man! That is so cool. What a great episode. Great info on G&L, Leo, John Jorgensen and that particular guitar. I have that Austin City Limits show transferred from my VHS tape to DVD and still show it till this day. Thanks for this Zac.

  • @charlie-obrien
    @charlie-obrien 3 місяці тому

    Thanks for the great story.
    We all know that Leo started Fender music instrument company and created the Telecaster, Stratocaster and many more.
    But I love the stories about how he, George Fullerton and Dale Hyatt started G&L and all the new innovations that came by way if that company. It also seems like they were operating like the wild west in getting the brand to catch on.
    I've played a lot of guitars and I can say that I have never been disappointed by a G&L product.
    Also my CLF Skyhawk has been my #1 player for a long time. I know it comes from an original Leo design and I love everything about it.

  • @mjvicc1952
    @mjvicc1952 3 місяці тому

    This episode was WONDERFUL! 👏🏻

  • @phillipcole3068
    @phillipcole3068 3 місяці тому

    Thanks for sharing this little bit of history that I've been wondering about! It's also great to hear the story behind that particular guitar. I bet you could do some other great "Behind the Guitar" stories!

  • @karl6094
    @karl6094 3 місяці тому

    Ordered an ASAT Classic #35096 from Veneman’s Music in Rockville, MD in June 1993. My first pro guitar. Still have it, still love it. The MFD pickups teach you to use your tone knob for sure. Lots of versatility there if you take the time to learn and don’t just dime it. I’ve got an S-500 and a Doheny V-12 as well, both made in Fullerton. The PTB system on those is super flexible. Loved these stories, Zac! I know a bunch of G&L history from George’s book, but some of these are new… Thanks so much for the episode!

  • @chipsterb4946
    @chipsterb4946 3 місяці тому

    A wonderful story told by one of the best storytellers. Thank you!

  • @swaffy101
    @swaffy101 3 місяці тому

    Wow Zak you have a true gift of storytelling. Had my attention the whole time. Thank you!

  • @aroe3896
    @aroe3896 3 місяці тому

    wow, so many layers to that story! Excellent

  • @louisdombrowski4198
    @louisdombrowski4198 3 місяці тому

    Fantastic story by a incredible story teller.
    Thanks for sharing 🎸😎

  • @Docsjeff
    @Docsjeff 3 місяці тому

    Wow.That was an Awesome story.You’re very fortunate to have been around a lot of really good players and people in general.

  • @brianrollins7275
    @brianrollins7275 3 місяці тому

    Great information thank you.
    Always enjoy your videos.

  • @mikeaustin4138
    @mikeaustin4138 3 місяці тому

    Great stuff! I have a mid-90s ASAT Special that I really love. Not just for country, it sounds amazing through a cranked amp. I also once had a mid-90s ASAT Custom with a mahogany body, a gorgeous flame maple top and rear-mounted controls.

  • @carljohnson8364
    @carljohnson8364 3 місяці тому

    Love the story time episodes
    Thanks so much Zac

  • @billknudson7895
    @billknudson7895 2 місяці тому

    This video made my night, Zac. After hearing The Hellecasters back in the early 2000s, I decided to try out a G&L guitar. I bought a G&L ASAT Special. It’s one of only two guitars I regret selling, but medical bills forced my hand. It took a while, but I eventually found a later model ASAT that I’m very pleased with. After hearing your stories, I decided it was time to go grab it and play. Thanks for a very entertaining 33 minutes.

  • @mbtrav0
    @mbtrav0 3 місяці тому +1

    Love to hear these stories. Thanks so much for sharing the history of the guitar and the touching way it was passed on.

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  3 місяці тому +1

      Glad you enjoyed it

  • @randallcl9925
    @randallcl9925 2 місяці тому

    Thanks Zac for an amazing story! I love G&L and own five Tributes and hearing a backstory like that just adds to my interest in the company, their guitars and Leo himself. The Tributes are incredible for what little they cost. I own an ASAT Special, Classic Ash, Bluesboy, Legacy and the latest is the Comanche. My favorites are the Special and Comanche as they are both the Super versions of a Tele and Strat. The MFD pickups are my favorites, thanks Leo!

  • @monahantp3767
    @monahantp3767 2 місяці тому

    Easily one of my favorite Ask Zac episodes! What a great story :D

  • @oxcarthabu
    @oxcarthabu 2 місяці тому

    This was awesome! I was looking for a guitar a few years ago, and did a whole bunch of research on line, looking and listening to many, including G&L. The price was too much at that time, I got something I could afford, but I was so impressed by the story of its origin. Still impressed.

  • @laserflexr6321
    @laserflexr6321 2 місяці тому

    What a fascinating bunch of stories. Thanks for pulling this all together and sharing.

    • @AskZac
      @AskZac  2 місяці тому +1

      Thanks for listening

  • @johntruman6571
    @johntruman6571 3 місяці тому

    I so enjoyed listening to this story Zac. There are many Fender lovers in the UK as you know. I have been one of those guys that in my youth pressed my nose up against the window of the local music shops, wishing that I could afford a real Fender. Alas, in the mid to late seventies, poor copies were all we (or rather our parents) could afford. I'm pleased to say things have changed over the decades and I now play and own some fine guitars. Thanks as always.

  • @laurentmcdonald2096
    @laurentmcdonald2096 3 місяці тому

    What a great story! Thanks for sharing!

  • @MrKevbo82
    @MrKevbo82 3 місяці тому

    Oh man amazing story, thanks for sharing it!

  • @jerrysolonsmith8471
    @jerrysolonsmith8471 3 місяці тому

    ONE OF THE BEST GUITAR-LORE STORIES EVER! Well done z!

  • @wallymarx9646
    @wallymarx9646 2 місяці тому +1

    Great episode, Zac. Probably the most complete spinning of the G&L yarn I’ve heard. Answering many nagging questions. Loved it.

  • @Vern859
    @Vern859 3 місяці тому

    Beautiful!!!
    Thank you so much for the information...
    Always enjoy your show..
    Makes me want to go play my Asat Special now... 😅👍

  • @GuitarDocAndMore
    @GuitarDocAndMore 2 місяці тому

    What a nice story and heartwarming storytelling. Thanks a lot for this!

  • @BuskAGroove
    @BuskAGroove 3 місяці тому +2

    Cheers for the Jeff Ross story! That DRB Austin City Limits episode is so great. Much like the Leo years of G&L, it marks the end of a golden era…. the whole band is superb & John’s playing showcases his versatility & that of the ASAT. Especially love the neck/body bends.

  • @ManchurianCounterweight
    @ManchurianCounterweight 3 місяці тому +3

    Back in my younger days, when I played for a living, my only guitar for many years was a 90's cream asat classic with a rosewood fretboard and those amazing pickups. It was a great guitar -sounded great, played great, and it could take the 4 nights a week cover band beating I was giving it, no problem. That guitar could do eagles, zeppelin, police, squeeze, seals and croft, steely dan, you name it, such a versatile instrument. In my 30's I joined the real world as a university faculty and I had no time for pro playing for many years, and I finally sold it. A very, very big regret.

  • @aardvarkusrex
    @aardvarkusrex 3 місяці тому

    Another great story! You continue to outdo yourself. Keep 'em coming.

  • @itsrob2321
    @itsrob2321 2 місяці тому

    Wonderful tone, Zac! Blissful…

  • @AdamWellsMusic
    @AdamWellsMusic 3 місяці тому

    Another awesome video. Thanks for sharing this guitar and a great story.