Episode one features Kathy Kelly, who has spent more than 50 years working for Gibson in Nashville
Welcome to “Backstage Heroes,” a brand-new and exclusive series from Gibson TV, shining a light on some of the longest-serving artisans at Gibson craftories in Nashville, Tennessee, and Bozeman, Montana.
Until now, many of our talented craftspeople have remained behind the scenes, helping to create the Gibson instruments heard on countless hit recordings and stages around the world. From our longest-serving employee to individuals who spearheaded innovations in product development, and other key figures in the Gibson team, Backstage Heroes tells the amazing stories of the people who make your dream Gibson guitars a reality.
In this first episode, we are proud to introduce Kathy Kelly. For more than 50 years, Kathy has helped shape Gibson guitars from within the finishing department at the Gibson craftory in Nashville. This is her story. It began at Gibson in 1975, shortly after Gibson relocated from Kalamazoo, Michigan, to Nashville in Tennessee. First, Kathy was a scuff sander, but she eventually became a member of the finishing department, helping to bring thousands of Gibson guitars to life over the decades—including yours.
Kathy shares fond memories of when Gibson first moved to Nashville with just 50 employees, reveals her thoughts on how the company has evolved over time, and explains why the connection between Gibson and its people means so much to her. From seeing the impact Gibson has had on Music City to reflecting on the moment she was honored with a beautiful Gibson Custom Dove acoustic in recognition of 50 years of service, Kathy’s story is a reminder that the people behind the guitars are the heart and soul of Gibson, and what makes Gibson so special.
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