Rather than hem and haw, Grover decided to double down and release Rhoads’s signature model under the moniker “Jackson,” and the rest is heavy metal history. Mr. Jackson’s innovative, visually striking designs immediately caught on among the virtuosos of the metal scene because of their superior playability, hot-rodded electronics, immaculate build quality, and flashy looks.
Though Randy Rhoads never saw his signature model go on to achieve staggering success, a host of artists have followed in his giant footsteps by gigging night in and night out with their Jackson guitars. Some notable users include Dr. Know of hardcore punk legends Bad Brains, just about everyone who has ever played in Megadeth, Scott Ian of thrash OGs Anthrax, Adrian Smith and Dave Murray of the incomparable Iron Maiden, and Phil Collen of glam-metal masters Def Leppard. But it’s not just legends that love their Jacksons: young bucks like Cory Beaulieu of Trivium, Chris Andreu of Gojira, and Misha Mansoor of prog powerhouse Periphery all proudly melt faces with their Jackson axes.
Wildwood Guitars is proud to partner with our friends at Jackson to bring you these fantastic instruments. We believe that Jackson Guitars are some of the most imminently shred-tastic guitars on the planet, and that their current models reflect the same innovative spirit that prompted Grover Jackson to take his great leap of faith in 1980. Whether you’re into chugging metal, breakneck thrash, crusty punk, or one of the many sub-genres in between, we know they will inspire countless sick riffs and gnarly solos.
