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In 2022, Lzzy Hale made history when she was honored with her first signature guitar, the Gibson Explorerbird – a spin-off of the Explorer, which in turn has been her go-to electric guitar for much of her career.
However, the Halestorm guitarist wasn’t always such an Explorer loyalist. In fact, she started out on another Gibson model but ultimately switched ranks – after buying her first Explorer second-hand from Craigslist.
“Originally I was a Les Paul girl,” she reveals to Guitar World’s Paul Riario. “I fell in love with the Explorer shape while we were making our first album [2009’s Halestorm] out in California.
“I ended up getting my first Explorer off Craigslist. This poor guy had to sell his guitar because of medical bills. So I went to see him, and he was so incredibly excited that it was gonna actually get played and go out on the road.”
The switch from Les Pauls to Explorers was a no-brainer, according to Hale. The Explorer just had the right vibe.
She continues, “What I love about the Explorer shape is that it doesn’t matter whether you’re front row or in the nose bleed [seats] section, you see that shape and it’s undeniable. It’s like, ‘Okay, this isn’t going to be country. This probably isn’t going to be pop. This has to be rock.’”
Shortly after unveiling her Explorerbird, Hale introduced the pointier-but-still-Explorer-inspired Kramer Voyager.
Elsewhere in her interview with Guitar World – for which she’s joined by bandmate Joe Hottinger – Hale looks back on the band’s involvement in Back to the Beginning, and recalls how they had to pivot to their plan B after Metallica ended up covering their first-choice Black Sabbath song.
Lzzy Hale has also singled out one guitarist as proof that the future of rock ‘n’ roll is in very safe and capable hands.
Lzzy Hale on Swapping Les Pauls for Gibson Explorers – Finding Her First Explorer on Craigslist
The Emotional Tale Behind a Guitar Sold for Medical Bills
In a touching story that underscores the emotional weight a guitar can carry, Lzzy Hale recently shared an experience involving a man who had to part with one of his cherished guitars due to overwhelming medical bills.
“This poor guy had to sell his guitar because of medical bills. He was so incredibly excited that it was gonna get played,” Lzzy Hale recounted, highlighting the profound connection between musician and instrument.
This story reveals how guitars transcend their physical form, becoming treasured relics of hope, creativity, and personal history. For many players, selling an instrument is a heartbreaking decision, done out of necessity rather than desire.
why Lzzy Hale Chose to Swap Les Pauls for gibson Explorers
Lzzy Hale’s guitar journey is as dynamic as her powerful vocals and stage presence. Known for her commanding rock anthems and fierce guitar solos, she initially favored the classic Gibson Les paul. However, over time, she found herself drawn to the bold and aggressive silhouette of the Gibson Explorer, inspired by the guitar’s movie-star presence and distinctive tone.
Key Reasons for the Swap
- Distinct Tone and Playability: The Explorer offers a slightly brighter, more cutting sound compared to the warmer Les Paul tones.
- Unique Visual Impact: The angular design of the Explorer helps her stand out on stage and matches her energetic performance style.
- personal Connection: Finding her first Gibson Explorer on Craigslist made the instrument feel more meaningful, a discovery story that many musicians can relate to.
Finding the First Gibson Explorer on Craigslist – A Firsthand Experience
Lzzy Hale’s first Gibson Explorer came from an unexpected place: Craigslist. This unconventional buy not only gave her a new favorite guitar but also connected her with a guitar community that values second-hand treasures.
Buying guitars on Craigslist can be daunting but also rewarding. Lzzy’s experience shows how authenticity, storytelling, and passion can turn a simple transaction into a lasting relationship with an instrument.
Tips for Buying Guitars on Craigslist
- Research: Know the model’s details and market price before messaging sellers.
- Ask Questions: Inquire about the guitar’s history, maintenance, and playability.
- Inspect Thoroughly: Always meet in a safe location and test the guitar carefully before purchase.
- Negotiate Respectfully: Sellers appreciate genuine interest rather than a lowball offer.
The Gibson Les paul vs Gibson Explorer – A Comparative Overview
| Feature | Gibson Les Paul | Gibson Explorer |
|---|---|---|
| Body Shape | Rounded, classic | Angular, aggressive |
| Typical Tone | warm, thick | Bright, cutting |
| Weight | Heavier | Lighter |
| Stage Presence | classic rock staple | Standout, eye-catching |
| Preferred Genres | Blues, rock, jazz | Hard rock, metal, alternative |
Emotional and Practical Benefits of Swapping Guitars
Swapping guitars is not just about sound-it’s about reigniting passion and exploring new creative avenues. Here are some benefits and practical tips for musicians considering a swap:
Benefits
- Fresh Inspiration: A new guitar tone sparks creativity and experimentation.
- Financial Sense: Trading guitars can be a cost-effective way to update your gear.
- Community Building: Swapping encourages connections among musicians and collectors.
Practical Tips for a Successful Guitar Swap
- Be Clear About Your Needs: Know what tone and playability characteristics you want next.
- Test Both guitars: Play the new guitar extensively before finalizing the swap.
- Use trusted Platforms: Craigslist, Reverb, and local music shops are ideal swapping venues.
Lzzy hale’s Impact on Guitar Culture & inspiration for musicians
As the frontwoman of Halestorm, Lzzy Hale inspires countless guitarists worldwide to explore and innovate. Her public embrace of both Les Pauls and Explorers has helped elevate the latter’s status in rock music circles, showing that even less conventional shapes like the Gibson Explorer have a powerful voice.
Her story of discovering a precious guitar on Craigslist also reminds players that priceless musical treasures are often hidden in unexpected places – and that instruments truly come alive when they get played and cherished.
