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

[@GL_Guitars]

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]

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

[@richmaloof9710]

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.

[@vintagepearlguitars]

​@@louisvandenberg2153The F-100 is still one of the best electric guitars I know. I've had mine since the early nineties. I also love my new Stingray 2. Such versatile guitars!

[@jeffreypaulross9767]

Hi Dave, I would’ve thought that you heard my story from Dale, George, or Vern? Oh well. I hope all is good with you, and if Paul Gagon is still around, tell him I said hi.

[@jupiterlegrand4817]

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.

[@BeefNEggs057]

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]

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]

​@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]

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

[@jeffmancuso2715]

Great story, couldn’t imagine meeting Leo.

[@bradpirochta9293]

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

[@mikedesensi6391]

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]

??

[@plane_guy6051]

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]

@@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

[@erestube]

@@mikedesensi6391 Good job!

[@Jeremya74]

What a killer story..i dont even listen to country much but have always had much respect for paisley as a guitarist

[@upload2352]

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.

[@bhhNC]

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.

[@scotthoughton1802]

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.

[@ShiddyFinkelstein]

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

[@lostreb]

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]

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...

[@roberttaylor6981]

Thanks so much for the interesting history. I’ve had a Broadcaster for 50 years now. It’s the one guitar that I’ve hung onto while many others have come and gone. Your story telling makes me appreciate my Broadcaster even more.

[@dimitris70]

Belong together 50years !!!!!! So everything on that guitar was matched perfectly with you? I have an sg , and a no brand Tele type I love them but I can't say if they are the,, right,, guitars for me I'm not experienced yet 😢

[@duanewelsh5611]

Very cool story behind that guitar with an extremely impressive cast of characters! Thanks Zac for sharing it with us.

[@brucepaxton2471]

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]

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

[@brucepaxton2471]

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]

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.

[@TheRevDr]

Just to add, Leo Fender sold Fender only because he thought he was dying. He ended up recovering but had already sold the company so he went back as a consultant to Fender and wait out his non compete clause. Then his first wife Esther became sick with cancer and that was a huge hit for Leo. Only after he remarried that he really got going again and started innovating again full steam. Great video, I love learning guitar history esp these key moments.

[@RoseCityMusicClub]

Truly, one of the most gorgeous guitars I’ve seen on this channel. Nice piece, brother.

[@brokenacoustic]

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]

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

[@MisterTMH]

I own three G & L Guitars. They are great !

[@NickRatnieks]

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]

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]

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

[@57clc]

@@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]

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]

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]

@@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]

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

[@boxerfencer]

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]

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

[@OldWhitebelly]

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]

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]

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]

@@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.

[@Busk_N_Groove]

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

[@jamesburns4363]

Is there a fine wine year for the Larrivee's (and G&L's) to shop for? My G&L's are workhorses for sure.

[@bassyey]

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.

[@TheyreStillOutThere]

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.

[@angusorvid8840]

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.

[@GuiitarBilly]

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.

[@dancotterman1267]

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!

[@tomburkhardt811]

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.

[@PocketDelicious]

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.

[@teletran1175]

Absolutely fascinating! I remember reading an article in the early 90s about Carl Perkins in some guitar magazine. He was holding this black guitar that was shaped like tele, but wasn't a Fender. I didn't know until much latter that is was an early G&L Broadcaster! He played that guitar exclusively for the rest of his life and was rarely seen without it in photos.

[@Busk_N_Groove]

Indeed. GFTPM Classics VI is the mag/issue that contain that photo & interview.

[@erestube]

I remember seeing him on the Mike Douglas show or some other daytime talk show and he was playing that Broadcaster. I had one so I was excited to see somebody famous playing one as well. I always wondered if he kept using it. Now decades later I know!

[@adam411]

Nice review and story! I have a version of this EXACT same guitar, same year, model, color, everything (although, I will say mine is not as clean). Leo hit a home run with this one. After playing for nearly 30 years, my mind was blown when I first picked it up. Through the right amp and a touch of overdrive, it is hands down one of the best sounding and most versatile guitars I own, and I own a lot of really nice guitars. Something about these pickups sound like nothing else with clarity and grit, and the controls really respond to let you dial in your sound. A lot of people say they are simply a better sounding, fatter single coil and that's a very accurate way to describe them. If you're a guitar player and have never played one of these ASATs with the jumbo MFDs, don't be like me and wait so long, do it asap. G&L is still hanging on, but it's honestly a real shame these guitars aren't more widely known or played anymore.

[@timothycormier3494]

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!!

[@josephfetz1748]

My Fullerton ASAT Special is my absolute favorite guitar. I was an LP-style player from about 1996 until 2011 when I bought my first Tele (a Mexican Special called the "Blackout Tele", with 3 Tele pups laid out like a Strat). In 2021 I bought my ASAT Special and haven't touched any of my other guitars since. I am actually considering selling them all, but I hold onto them just in case I need an LP or Strat-like Tele sound. My primary instrument is bass, so of course, I also have an L2000. Again, it is the only bass that I play. G&L is truly a hidden gem in the guitar/bass world, I am definitely a fan.

[@OldeDog_NewTricks]

What is a strat like tele sound? If you want a strat sound why not just play a strat? Genuine question. Not meant to be snarky at all.

[@josephfetz1748]

@@OldeDog_NewTricks it sounds like a twangy Strat. I never dug the Strat tone, but dug the "quacky" sound in positions 2 and 4 that only a Strat has (just with different pups). Look up "Nashville Tele" videos, you'll get the idea. I really only ever use that Blackout Tele for "quacky" sounds (middle/neck or middle/bridge), nothing else. I have this guitar if only to have sounds different from the norm.

[@SubtractiveMoves]

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

[@joeltunnah]

He's the Garrison Keillor of the guitar.

[@PhpGtr]

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

[@zachjarrett8730]

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.

[@rafaelcarmany463]

Thank you for all the G & L Information. In 1983 I had never heard of G & L. A friend had purchased a G & L S-500 - essentially an updated Stratocaster. He was the second owner and didn't care for it. We were jamming at his house and he allowed me to try it - and I lost my mind! I HAD TO HAVE IT!! He sold it to me - and the original Neck Pick up sounded amazing. But it had 2 DiMarzio pickups in the middle and bridge position - which the G & L Neck Pickup blew away. It had a very unique tone - sounded rich and clear. It had the Strat "Chime" - only better - waaay better. I immediately ordered the G & L Middle and Bridge Pickups, which were very expensive - but worth every penny. Other than that I know nothing about these guitars. I have used them in recording studios around the USA and I get many comments regarding the tones the guitar generates. The guitar can sound like so many different types of guitar that I and others really can't believe it. I have small hands - and the "1957 V-Neck" is so easy for me to play.

[@stevec.1802]

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

[@jmfd7168]

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.

[@montetredway4129]

First visit to this site. Can’t believe how well spoken you are. A lot said in a short time….. really resonates…. and with humor. Bravo!

[@keenedgedesigns]

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

[@AT-27182]

Beautiful, multifaceted story. Thank you.

[@Hoyt-o1k]

What a great story about some of my guitar heros AND my favorite guitars, I'm a long time G&L player and lover of all the great music out of Nashville TN, and though I'm on the west coast now, my heart will always remain in the south, miss y'all terribly ❤❤❤

[@spkay31]

Thanks for sharing that awesome story. It's great to hear how Brad kept his friends close to him in his career development. Says a lot about his character and loyalty to his friends.

[@billknudson7895]

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.

[@picksalot1]

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

[@TrickyGomez]

Incredible story! I can't even imagine the sentimental value of that instrument...

[@davidpatton3180]

I bought an F-100 II active electronics guitar after playing one at the factory in Fullerton, Ca. in early 1980 specifically because of all the knobs and switches that provided both single coil and humbucker sounds. Eventually the active electronics failed and it was rewired to factory passive specs and is still a dynamite instrument. It hangs on my guitar wall to this day and is one of my favorites to use. I met George Fullerton when I demoed the guitar at the factory but, sadly, Leo was out of town. I finally got to meet Leo at NAMM just a few years before he passed. Leo is a true legend of the industry and was a real gentleman to me.

[@chrislestermusic]

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.

[@Busk_N_Groove]

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.

[@johnbotsford6897]

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!

[@ssiowi]

Thanks Zac. Hearing Jake Cinninger play his G&L and then talking about the instrument, starting me listening to pros share their G&L stories. Leo, a serial innovator viewed obstacles like Marcus Aurelius. To quote the Roman emperor's view of obstacles and challenges, "What stands in the way Is The Way." Fender, Edison, Telsa, Jobs; they all took setbacks head on and opportunities to improve. Thanks again for this great look into G&L.

[@fourtoon]

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!

[@nickdevriese]

I always wanted to get a G&L. I absolutely love Telecasters as my go to. Maybe it’s time to try one out.

[@markiszak]

It’s time 🙌

[@bunkie2100]

Back in 2002, I was jonesing for the Fender ‘52 Reissue Telecaster. I dropped into 48th Street Guitars (just up rhe block from Manny’s) and, to make a long story short, I walked out with a G&L ASAT Classic custom shop model. Mine has an Antique Maple neck, maple banding on the body, a white pearloid pickguard and an absolutely gorgeous hand-painted metallic swirl red finish. It is, truly, one a kind and I have the privilege of looking after it.

[@imannonymous7707]

This is a great channel, never miss an episode

[@MrGavinspoppop]

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 !!!

[@dukeofearl4117]

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.

[@Jeb_binch]

I’m not a pro or anything, but the various species of MFD are the nicest sounding single coils to my ear. I have an ASAT Classic and play it every day. Great stories in this video. G&L represents my favorite era for Leo, so it’s cool to hear that a Broadcaster/ASAT has pride of place in Brad’s studio.

[@PastaPatate]

The MFD pickups are great I also play them every day

[@zero318]

I agree, I have an ASAT and as a 40+ year Telecaster guy, it is by far my favourite iteration of the platform. It never has a bad day...ever.

[@Gogreenoo3]

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.

[@TheMoodyLoners]

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.

[@bobaldo2339]

I just have to say that I think that is an exceptionally great sounding instrument! Thanks for telling the story.

[@gdkopinionator4356]

Amongst all of the KZbin 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!

[@JimWalkerMusic]

Spent this past weekend watching many of my fav Ask Zac episodes. Some I have seen as many as 10 or more times, but this particular one I significantly relate to. I too seen DRB on ACL and was impacted by it. So when my Super Reverb took a shit at the gig for a 3rd time I sold all my Fender stuff, I was done. I then purchased a new ASAT Special along with a pair of Peavey Bandit 65's. By 1991 I was still so in love with G&L, I purchased a brand new G&L Legacy that became my #1 for several years! It took a while but Skip's Music in Modesto and The Fender Corporation finally tricked me back to their camp in 1996 with a Parsons / Green B-Bender equipped AM STD Telecaster. 🎸 Dang it, they got me! 🤣

[@shanemichael3250]

I stumbled upon your channel and as a guitarist I'm Uber stoked I found your spot.. gratitude for the history the love and journey of guitars and the musicians that they influence..

[@1rwjwith]

Incredible story! I have an ASAT, semi-hollow.,AMERICAN made , got it in 1999, its a great guitar.

[@mjolnircarlssen4211]

This instrument mixes two of my favorite things: Telecasters and P90s! When it comes to Electric Guitars and Basses, Leo Fender designs always win the day with me.

[@dannyrivers3922]

That's awesome that Leo fender asked what he didn't like instead of just getting mad and yelling at him

[@iancombs857]

I had lunch with John Jorgenson when I was in middle school. He was (and I assume still is) a total sweetheart. And a MONSTER player good lord.

[@veitchy88]

Yes! I’ve been wanting to see your take on these guitars since the start of the channel. Hopefully not the last we see of then.

[@webber977]

A brilliant musician and an eloquent teacher

[@edc3093]

Zac, what a wonderful story, and it is now a part of music history.

[@nahummartin5698]

Love learning this history, thank you! For years I have said that my '97 ASAT Special is definitely my desert island guitar. it can do everything. I literally had to stop using it to test amps and pedals b/c I can't make it sound bad through anything!

[@jamesburns4363]

Wow. That is an epic story. A story that involves Leo AND Brad Paisley AND the Church is my kind of story. Thanks for sharing.

[@jscrummett]

I have an ASAT classic that was given to me as a neck and body by a friend and former G&L employee who was once tasked with destroying pallets of routed bodies and fully finished necks, they were burning them in the fire pits in Huntington Beach but he squirreled a few away in his attic. The way I put it together it's basically a tele that says G&L on the headstock but I love it and it has a cool story. This video was a great glimpse into G&L history, thanks.

[@nazmoking3171]

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!

[@sideshow1297]

I own a Broadcaster, as I passed on a new one when I was only 13 years old and it haunted me ever since because of the collectibility. I didn’t know what I was doing. Anyways, I bought one 35 years later used, and I had no idea of the innovations it has. Thanks for sharing!

[@SuperShecky]

I own a SC-2 from the early 80s, white non vibrato model, two pickup, non point headstock. I'd wanted one since seeing the ad in Guitar Player when they came out. I found it used in 1990 and snatched it up. As simple as the instrument is, it's made with fine attention to detail. This model might have been sparsely adorned, but it's every bit an uncompromising, professional level instrument. The split maple neck has very attractive birdseye figure. I think Peavey used to split and flip their maple necks back then, too. Over the years, the white finish has taken on a cream, almost yellow hue. And it's the only electric I've ever played that really rewards adjusting the volume and tone controls to dial in a suitable sound for whatever application is needed.

[@Busk_N_Groove]

You’ve nailed it… esp re the vol & tone controls. Plus they’re shot in old school nitrocellulose lacquer & sound more tele-like than the Broadcaster & ASAT due to a unique tone circuit & greater slant to the bridge pickup. Yes, Hartley Peavey allowed Leo to utelise the.bi cut neck design & Leo gave Hartley the rights to use the improved neck tilt adjust. Great & rare instruments!

[@johntruman6571]

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.

[@Bassman2353]

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

[@giulioluzzardi7632]

Best episode so far. Leo Fender created a Monster that tormented him just like in the Mary Shelley Frankenstein story. Maybe Leo was the Prometheus that gifted Electric Guitar to Man?

[@1johnnygunn]

I remember seeing You and Brad play at the marathon county fair in wisconsin, always a great memory.

[@Busk_N_Groove]

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.

[@karl6094]

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!

[@carlton1390]

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!

[@Busk_N_Groove]

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

[@NewHopeAudio]

Very cool. I’m a huge G&L fan, nice to see you feature this guitar and story.

[@laserflexr6321]

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

[@AskZac]

Thanks for listening

[@charlie-obrien]

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.

[@martydibergi5228]

I was fortunate to buy two John Jorgenson silver sparkle guitars. One rosewood neck, one maple neck each autographed by John. Still have them. ❤

[@garybratton7756]

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.

[@phaeded0ut]

Thank you, Zac, this is a great retelling of the story with Jeff Ross, Leo Fender, Dale Hyatt, and George Fullerton. No love for the Fender StarCaster…. Have to say, my favorite of the G&L was the Comanche (for guitars). I was always shocked that G&L didn’t go into extended range instruments. I’m not sure if there was an influence from Yamaha SG-2000 and higher guitars where they would sink a brass plate into the body connected directly to the bridge, but it would be interesting to know about this.

[@philipmarsh3522]

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.

[@emr11films]

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

[@howardskinner4916]

I would agree with Jeff. I had an early, low serial number Music Man Sabre II. The active electronics were buzzy and noisy. I considered the noise to be unprofessional. I had my favorite luthier (CB Hill, Huntington Beach, Ca.) make a custom pickguard with three pickups in a passive setup. It sounded great, played great.

[@bartboop]

Great stories Zac! I have 3 MusicMan Sabre guitars from the late 70’s. Highly underrated, and very different from the G&L line.

[@PastaPatate]

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

[@barrywuthrich8530]

I walked into a pawn shop in Victoria, Texas in the 1990s and saw what I thought was a Stratocaster on the the wall. It turned out to be a USA made G&L Legacy. I think it's a '94. I bought it with the hard case for $300 and fell in love with it. I liked everything about it except the tone knobs. Years later, I finally figured out how the tone knobs were wired differently than my strat. That's kind of important. lol

[@oxcarthabu]

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.

[@randallcl9925]

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!

[@4602experience]

I don’t understand why everyone forgot about Leo and his products after he left Fender. I have a G&L ASAT and it’s a fantastic guitar

[@alcoc4201]

What a cool story! Thanks for sharing. I acquired a beautiful ASAT Classic back in the 90's from a LMS. Action was not quite right. Was lucky to have a locally-based set up wizard (Pete Schmidt) near by who made some adjustments and to this day, this guitar has remained my main instrument of choice. By coincidence, I also acquired a F100 (series II) just a few years prior to getting ASAT and while I still have it, I've played it only a few times.

[@mattskillman]

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.

[@lauriemacquanan2141]

Jeeze, I have always loved G&L ASAT, I LIKED that you gave me some history about Leo and George. I remember reading the news that Leo had passed but I was so young I didn't realize the significance of it. Thank You an thanks to Brad for letting you do this video!

[@OTOss8]

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.

[@bostonaudi]

Interesting story behind G&L. I bought a G&L bass back around 1987, a 1000 if memory serves. It was a decent axe, I played it hard and gigged out a couple years with it. I didn’t think it brought that much more to the table than a Fender Jazz or P bass though. Finally I discovered Music Man, the Stingray for me is the one to have, after seeing Tony Levin play these in the 90’s and the great tone I had to have one, been playing those ever since.

[@TheNino37]

That story at the end... wow! I mean, how cool is that!

[@dalecoffing8655]

You and Kieth are the best story tellers!

[@ElBrooklyn1]

LOVE the many stories surrounding this guitar. And I was extra-attentive because I just scored a 1997 ASAT Special in SILVER FLAKE with a matching headstock and mirrored pickguard! So I guess I have John to thank for that, too.