Epiphone has officially unveiled the Fatoumata Diawara Signature SG, a stunning new instrument that marks a historic milestone in the world of guitar manufacturing. Priced at $699/£599, this Ember Red beauty celebrates the career of the GRAMMY-nominated Malian artist, making her the first woman of color to be honored with an Epiphone signature model.
The release is more than just a new product; it is a tribute to Diawara’s genre-bending influence, which weaves traditional Wassoulou music into the fabric of contemporary global blues and rock.
A Fusion of Heritage and Modern Performance
The Fatoumata Diawara SG is a masterclass in blending bold aesthetics with professional-grade versatility. Based on the popular Epiphone Muse SG, this signature version has been refined with Fatoumata’s personal modifications to suit the needs of world-touring musicians.
Signature Aesthetics
The first things that catch the eye are the Ember Red finish and the unique signature graphic on the Mahogany body. The guitar is adorned with gold-plated hardware, including Epiphone locking tuners and a LockTone Tune-O-Matic bridge. To complete the look, the guitar features color-coordinated red pickup mounting rings, speed knobs, and a toggle switch tip.
Professional Playability
Built for comfort and speed, the guitar features:
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Neck Profile: A “Custom C” mahogany neck for a comfortable grip.
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Fretboard: A bound rosewood fingerboard with 22 medium jumbo frets.
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Inlays: Iconic pearloid trapezoid inlays for a classic Gibson-inspired look.
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Stability: A Graph Tech nut ensures the guitar stays in tune even during aggressive playing.
Alnico Classic PRO humbuckers for Sonic Versatility
Under the hood, the guitar is powered by a pair of Alnico Classic PRO humbuckers. These pickups are wired to a highly flexible electronics suite, offering push/pull coil-splitting for single-coil tones and a phase switch for that signature “out-of-phase” sound famously used in blues and world music.
About Fatoumata Diawara
Born in the Ivory Coast to Malian parents, Fatoumata Diawara has become a global cultural icon. From her acclaimed 2011 debut Fatou to collaborations with Paul McCartney, Damon Albarn, and Herbie Hancock, she has redefined the role of the modern African woman in music. This signature guitar is a testament to her love for the SG shape, which she has used to captivate audiences on the world’s biggest stages.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Specification |
| Body Material | Mahogany with Signature Graphic |
| Neck Shape | Custom “C” Profile |
| Pickups | 2x Alnico Classic PRO Humbuckers |
| Controls | 2 Vol (Coil-Split), 2 Tone (Phase Switch) |
| Hardware | Gold-plated LockTone Bridge & Tailpiece |
| Case | Hardshell Case (Included) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What makes the Fatoumata Diawara SG different from a standard SG?
Unlike a standard SG, this model features custom graphics, gold hardware, locking tuners, and a specific “Custom C” neck profile. It also includes advanced electronics, such as coil splitting and phase switching, for a wider variety of tones.
Is a case included in the price?
Yes! The Epiphone Fatoumata Diawara Signature SG comes with a premium hardshell case included in the price point.
What kind of music is this guitar best for?
While it excels at the Wassoulou-fusion style Fatoumata is known for, the Alnico Classic PRO pickups and coil-splitting make it versatile enough for rock, blues, jazz, and pop.
Is this a limited edition model?
While not explicitly labeled as a limited run, signature models often have specific production windows. It is currently available at authorized Epiphone dealers.
Guitar Bomb Verdict: A New Icon for a New Generation
The Epiphone Fatoumata Diawara Signature SG is more than just an electric guitar; it is a symbol of representation and artistic excellence. With its pro-level specs, unique Ember Red aesthetic, and versatile electronics, it offers incredible value for both “Fatou” fans and guitarists seeking a unique, high-performance instrument.
Price & Availability
Available at Andertons, priced at £599
More Information
#Epiphone #Fatoumata Diawara
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