7 - Malcolm Booher

Malcolm resides in Austin, Texas, and has been playing guitar for 16 years. He is a third-generation musician who grew up in rural south central Kentucky and was lucky to grow up in a household surrounded by all kinds of musical instruments. His family played in various bluegrass bands over the years, but he quickly ventured into rock music upon picking up the guitar. Soon after, he began playing anywhere where he and his friends could find a gig. Whether it be in regional music venues or clubs, he always wanted to be a performer in a band setting. He learned quickly that if he ever wanted to have a career in music, he would need to be proficient in sound and riff writing, which he began doing as soon as possible. He began touring around the southern US in his early to mid-20s and was lucky enough to join a band by the age of 30 called Blacktop Mojo. He is now part of a full-time touring band, a Gibson endorsed artist, and happy to tell folks that his profession is being a musician.

Malcolm’s Guitars:

• 2018 Gibson Sg 61 reissue HLE VOS 

• 1978 Gibson Les Paul Custom

• 2021 Gibson Es335 

• 2017 Gibson Les Paul CME Standard

• 2009 Gibson Les Paul Studio

• 2018 Gibson J45

• 1970 Gibson Southern Jumbo Country & Western

• 2005 Fender American Deluxe Stratocaster

• Early 2000s MIM Telecaster

• Epiphone Swingster 

  

  

  

  

  What was your first guitar, and do you still have it?

  My first guitar was an epiphone acoustic that I still have to this day. It wasn't easy to play but I learned the basic chords and a riff or two before moving on to an electric guitar. My first nice electric guitar was gifted to me by my father for my 20th birthday. It was a Gibson Les Paul Studio which I toured with for nearly 8 years. It has since been retired but I still pull it out from time to time.

  What's your favorite guitar right now, and why?

  My favorite guitar would have to be my SG 61 reissue. It's a custom shop historic limited edition and only 15 of them were ever made in the color and spec that I have. I was fortunate to have that guitar gifted to me by my wonderful fiance and soon to be wife.

  What's your newest purchase/build?

  My newest purchase is a 1978 Les Paul Custom with factory nickel hardware. It plays excellently and is still in great shape for its age. I'm sure it will be getting some more nicks and dings as I have plans to take it on tour in 2023.

  How often do you play?

  Being a full time musician its very important to me to continue to hone my craft and if at all possible i try to play and write something new every day.

  What's the music you're creating, and what is its mission?

  Playing guitar is truly my biggest passion in life outside of my family and it's something I enjoy every time I sit down to do it.