Among the great names of rock’n’roll, some have turned their style, sound, and appearance into cultural landmarks as iconic as their music. Like movie soundtracks, the greatest hits come alive through a carefully crafted visual identity. Today, we take a closer look at a true master of the art: Billy Gibbons.
Over decades of hits and countless live shows, ZZ Top have built an eccentric and unmistakable image. The three Texas cowboys forged their own style — hats, long beards, and striking guitars. It was common to see Billy Gibbons and Dusty Hill on stage with matching instruments, specially made for them. Many of these were customized, painted, decorated, or even entirely built for the duo.
Yet few guitars are as emblematic as Billy Gibbons’ famous Billy Bo — one of his signature models. Its unusual shape became typical of the American guitarist, who has reimagined it in various colors, finishes, and styles. The guitar’s roots go back to a true classic: the legendary Jupiter Thunderbird, one of three guitars designed by the great Bo Diddley for his band in 1959. A passionate connoisseur of Gretsch and the history of the electric guitar, Gibbons turned this rare instrument into a lasting tribute that bears both their names: the Billy Bo, for Billy Gibbons and Bo Diddley. Its construction follows the 1959 original — still owned by Gibbons himself. Legend has it that, being too precious to tour with, he asked Gretsch to build him an identical version for the road.
Since then, history and endless tours have made the Billy Bo an iconic and celebrated guitar. Over the years, Matt’s Guitar Shop has had the privilege of selling several from Reverend Billy Gibbons’ personal collection — including the one from the famous “Live in Texas” and a special prototype built by his luthier, John Bolin. If you love classic Texan rock, follow us for more stories and instruments from the legendary ZZ Top!
Guitars to Discover in Our Shop
The Billy Bo John Bolin Prototype, coming directly from Billy Gibbons’ personal collection. The Gretsch Billy Bo “Live From Texas” signed by Billy Gibbons in the background.
