Investigating Gibson’s ‘lost’ Jimi Hendrix model – the electric guitar based on what Hendrix would have played in 2009 had he been alive

Gibson Authentic Hendrix guitars
(Image credit: Reader supplied)

When guitar companies launch new models into the world, it can be difficult to predict how they’ll be received. But it’s fair to say few product launches received the same level of backlash as Gibson’s Authentic Hendrix line.

Back in 2009, long before John Mayer sparked controversy with the PRS Silver Sky, Gibson partnered with Authentic Hendrix to launch its own take on Fender’s Stratocaster, with Hendrix’s name splashed all over the headstock and pickguard.

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Michael Astley-Brown
Editor-in-Chief, GuitarWorld.com

Mike is Editor-in-Chief of GuitarWorld.com, in addition to being an offset fiend and recovering pedal addict. He has a master's degree in journalism from Cardiff University, and over a decade's experience writing and editing for guitar publications including MusicRadar, Total Guitar and Guitarist, as well as 20 years of recording and live experience in original and function bands. During his career, he has interviewed the likes of John Frusciante, Chris Cornell, Tom Morello, Matt Bellamy, Kirk Hammett, Jerry Cantrell, Joe Satriani, Tom DeLonge, Ed O'Brien, Polyphia, Tosin Abasi, Yvette Young and many more. In his free time, you'll find him making progressive instrumental rock under the nom de plume Maebe.