Musicians Who Use Gretsch Guitars

Gretsch electric guitars are popular for their unique look and distinctive, brilliant high tones. Many musicians use them, and you might be curious about who some of these artists are. Here, I introduce musicians who love Gretsch guitars.

■ Chet Atkins

Chet Atkins was an American country musician known for his guitar playing influenced by jazz and blues. He was nicknamed the ‘God of Guitar’ and is famous for pioneering the galloping style of country music.

The galloping technique involves playing bass notes with the thumb while muting the bridge and using the index, middle, and ring fingers to play melodies or arpeggios. The motion of the right hand resembles a galloping horse, hence the name.

Gretsch / G6122T-62 VS '62 Chet Atkins Country Gentleman w/Bigsby WLN

This model is a reproduction of the 1962 Country Gentleman, known for being played by George Harrison of The Beatles. It carries Chet Atkins’ name.

■ George Harrison (The Beatles)

In the early days of The Beatles, George Harrison was also a big fan of Gretsch guitars. He owned several models, including a 1957 Duo Jet.

Gretsch / G6128T-89 Vintage Select 89 Duo Jet w/Bigsby Black

This model is similar to George Harrison’s 1957 Duo Jet. The sleek black full-hollow guitar is a standout.

■ Eddie Cochran

Eddie Cochran was an American rockabilly musician who used a custom Gretsch with a replaced front pickup and pickguard—quite rare at the time. His hit songs include “Summertime Blues”. Tragically, Cochran died at the age of 21 in a car accident during the peak of his popularity.

Gretsch / G6120 Eddie Cochran Signature w/Bigsby Western Maple Stain

This is a signature model that recreates Eddie Cochran’s 1955 G6120, featuring a P90 front pickup and a transparent pickguard.

■ Kenichi Asai (Blankey Jet City)

Among Japanese Gretsch users, Kenichi Asai of Blankey Jet City stands out. He owns multiple Gretsch models, including the Tennessean and White Falcon. Blankey Jet City was a three-member rock band, with Kenichi Asai serving as both guitarist and vocalist.

Asai’s delicate vocals combined with the aggressive rhythms of Blankey Jet City’s sound match perfectly with Gretsch’s luxurious guitar designs.

Gretsch / G6119T-65KA Kenichi Asai Signature Black Cat with Bigsby

This is Kenichi Asai’s signature model, featuring simulated f-holes designed by Asai himself. It’s a special version of the full-hollow Tennessean especially designed for Asai.

■ Yusuke Chiba (Thee Michelle Gun Elephant)

Thee Michelle Gun Elephant was a four-piece rock band that disbanded in 2003. They were known for their rock sound influenced by rockabilly and blues. Yusuke Chiba, the vocalist and guitarist, is known for using models like the Tennessean, Tennessean Rose, and White Falcon.

Gretsch / G6136TG Players Edition Falcon White

When you think of Gretsch, the White Falcon comes to mind. The combination of the white full-hollow body and gold hardware gives it a princely appearance.

■ Try Out Your Dream Gretsch

Gretsch guitars not only sound great but also have a gorgeous look that makes them stand out. Even just displaying one is a feast for the eyes. Why not try using a Gretsch, just like many of these famous musicians?

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