Gil Hembree

About The Author

Gil Hembree holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree from American University and a Master of Business Administration degree from Midwestern State University. In the early 1960s, Gil established a Kingston Trio-style folk group while attending high school in Bethesda, Maryland. Later, he formed a Kingsmen-style rock 'n' roll band during college, showcasing his early passion for music.

Gil's fascination with vintage guitars was kindled in 1966 while working at Kitt's Music in Washington, DC. His exposure to the professional musicians who frequented Georgetown's M-Street inspired him to delve into the world of early buy-sell endeavors. However, his academic dedication to finance and accounting ultimately guided him toward a corporate career with General Motors Corporation in Detroit, Michigan.

In 1993, Gil embarked on a new journey when he began writing for Guitar Digest. Here, he conceptualized the groundbreaking vintage guitar price index, a testament to his expertise and dedication to the subject matter. Throughout the 1990s, Gil and his wife, Jane, actively participated in numerous vintage-guitar shows across the United States.

Balancing his corporate role at GM, he remained committed to his musical roots by performing in various bands. His passion for vintage guitars led him on quests to seek out original-owner vintage guitars in cities like Flint, Saginaw, Bay City, Port Huron, Pontiac, Battle Creek, and Kalamazoo.

Upon his retirement from a distinguished 30-year career with General Motors Corporation in January 2000, Gil's expertise was sought after by Vintage Guitar Inc., where he co-authored the annual "Vintage Guitar Price Guide." In 2007, the Hal Leonard Corp published his biography of Ted McCarty, titled "Gibson Guitars: Ted McCarty's Golden Era: 1948 – 1966." Gil continued to contribute to the "Vintage Guitar Price Guide" as a co-author from 2000 to 2023.

Gil and his wife, Jane, reside in Austin, Texas, where he continues to captivate audiences with live guitar and vocal performances. Gil and Jane are fortunate owners of Bob Shane's original 1958 Martin D-28 (serial number 161168). They proudly share the sentiment, "We've Got a Guitar," with friends and associates.