1965 Gibson Melody Maker

Gibson introduced the Melody Maker in 1959 to satisfy the market for affordable, beginner-grade electrics. Constructed of a slab Mahogany body with a set Mahogany neck, the Melody Maker was designed to be cost effective. In 1961, the original single-cutaway body was replaced with a new double-cutaway body. The eye-catching pointed horns were intended to attract the rock n' roll generation. In 1962, Gibson offered the Maestro Vibrola as an option, too. The Vibrola added another dimension of expression, sure, but it also brought the Melody Maker more in-line with other lower-cost solid-body guitars (such as Fenders, which dominated the lower end). This Melody Maker dates to 1965, and it features a single pickup, the optional Maestro Vibrola, and the Cherry Finish that became standard in '63. By the end of '65, the Melody Maker switched over to an SG body shape, so this may be one of the last to with the unique, double-cut body shape. It's not like any other Gibson shape, and it balances