Gibson Marquee Artist ASH embarks first Nashville journey, designs dream Les Paul

Japanese guitarist ASH, celebrated as a Gibson Marquee Artist, made his first-ever trip to Nashville, Tennessee, immersing himself in music, craftsmanship, and iconic experiences in Music City. The two-day journey saw ASH design a custom Les Paul, explore legendary Gibson Vault instruments, and perform alongside renowned musicians.

From the moment he arrived and spotted a giant Les Paul™ mural, ASH’s excitement was evident. “I consider the Les Paul to be the king of guitars,” he said. At the Gibson Custom Shop, he collaborated with the Gibson Made to Measure team to create his ultimate Les Paul in his signature white motif, building upon the custom white guitar he has played on countless stages worldwide.

Gibson craftsmanship and iconic moments

ASH toured the Gibson Garage Nashville and the Gibson Vault with Mark Agnesi, encountering some of the rarest guitars ever produced, including a 1958 Flying V™. A visit to the Gibson USA main craftory with Master Luthier Jim DeCola allowed him to see the artisanship behind every instrument and even the machine that built his first ES-335™. “Everyone works together to create so many great instruments,” he noted.

His trip culminated in a jam session with Gibson ambassador Jared James Nichols and educator Marty Schwartz, as well as performances at local venues. “Everyone was genuinely kind. I am truly blessed to finally visit Nashville,” ASH said, describing the sights, vibe, and experiences as unforgettable.

ASH’s musical journey and global impact

As Gibson Marquee Artist of the year, ASH joins a global network of musicians supported by Gibson’s artist development programs, which provide career resources, product development opportunities, and cultural collaborations. “I will continue to express myself through this guitar and deliver even more powerful performances,” he said.

ASH began playing guitar at 17 and launched his solo career in 2018, touring major cities and performing with acts like AI, EXILE, Misato Watanabe, HEY! SAY! JUMP, and YOASOBI. He has appeared at Coachella, Lollapalooza, and Primavera Sound, contributed to studio recordings, and shares expertise via YouTube masterclasses and gear reviews. In 2024, he co-founded the rock group Kyso, which released the EP MULTITUDES and amassed over 600 million YouTube-related views.

Reflecting on his early years in Shibuya, Tokyo, ASH said, “I lived in a prefab room with walls less than an inch thick, just a sofa and a boombox. That space gave me freedom. I played guitar every chance I could, and that love is what brought me here.”