We represented Gibson, the iconic American instrument brand, in its acquisition of Mesa/Boogie, one of the most prestigious brands in sound and guitar amplification. Centered on decades of professional experience and a true passion for sound, this historical transaction perfectly aligned with Gibson’s efforts to renew the iconic brand’s legacy and commitment to musicians around the world. The partnership was a natural collaboration of iconic American brands on a mutual quest of sound, quality and craftsmanship and to push the boundaries of how guitar sound is delivered and experienced. In addition, Mesa/Boogie founder Randy Smith will join Gibson as Master Designer and Mesa/Boogie amps will be available in Gibson’s Custom Shop for Amplifiers.
The transaction was highlighted in several media outlets, including:
- “JC Curleigh, Cesar Gueikian and Randy Smith on Gibson’s Monumental Acquisition of Mesa/Boogie – and What it Means for the Iconic Brands,” Guitar World (January 6, 2021)
- “Gibson Has Purchased Amplifier Giant Mesa/Boogie,” Loudwire (January 6, 2021)
Gibson Brands, the world’s most iconic guitar brand, has shaped the sounds of generations of musicians and music lovers across genres for more than 100 years. Founded in 1894 and headquartered in Nashville, TN, Gibson Brands has a legacy of world-class craftsmanship, legendary music partnerships, and progressive product evolution that is unrivaled among musical instrument companies.
The Bass, Berry & Sims corporate and securities practice encompasses mergers and acquisitions, capital markets transactions, corporate governance and shareholder activism. We serve as primary corporate and securities counsel to more than 35 public companies and have counseled on 150 deals ranging in size from $20 million to more than $15 billion over the past two years. The team and our attorneys have been consistently recognized in leading industry outlets, including Chambers USA – ranked as a top corporate firm in Tennessee since 2003 – and M&A Advisor Award recipient for – “M&A Deal of the Year ($10MM-$25MM)” and “Healthcare and Life Sciences Deal of the Year (Over $100MM-$1B)” in 2018; and “M&A Deal of the Year (From $1B-$5B)” and “Corporate/Strategic Deal of the Year (Over $1B)” in 2017.