Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (8)
$3,499.99
Reverb
5.0 (12)
$3,499.99 New
$2,569.00 Used
Thomann
5.0 (3)
$3,444.00

Average Price: $3,253

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Gretsch Billy Bo G6199". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Gretsch Billy Bo G6199 is not just a guitar; it's a statement piece that echoes the rebellious spirit of rock 'n' roll legends. Born from the collaboration between Billy F. Gibbons of ZZ Top fame and the iconic Bo Diddley, this guitar embodies a fusion of history and innovation. Its chambered mahogany body and laminated maple top resonate with rich, dynamic tones, while the unique design ensures you stand out on any stage.

The Billy Bo G6199 doesn’t just look the part; it delivers an electrifying performance thanks to its TV Jones Power'Tron pickups. These pickups provide a hotter, more powerful take on the classic Filter’tron sound, perfect for those dirty rock riffs or soaring solos. The guitar's classic 24.6-inch scale length offers a slinky feel, making bends effortless and playability smooth across the rosewood fingerboard.

Whether you're a seasoned performer or a passionate collector, the Gretsch Billy Bo G6199 is a guitar that demands attention and delivers on its promise of vintage style coupled with modern reliability. With its pinned Adjusto-matic bridge and built-in Schaller straplocks, this guitar is engineered to withstand the rigors of the road while keeping you in tune and secure.

Key Features:

  • Chambered mahogany body with a laminated maple top
  • 24.6-inch scale length for slinky feel and easy bends
  • Mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard
  • Dual TV Jones Power'Tron pickups for powerful, dynamic tones
  • Adjusto-matic bridge with pinned rosewood base for improved intonation
  • Vintage-style Gretsch G-cutout tailpiece
  • Built-in Schaller straplocks for secure strap attachment

Product specs

Brand Gretsch
Model G6199 Billy-Bo Jupiter Thunderbird
Finish Firebird Red
Year 2005 - 2025
Made In Japan
Categories Solid Body Electric Guitars
Artist Bo Diddley
Body Material Maple
Body Shape Double Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Stop-Bar
Color Family Red
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Gretsch Jupiter Thunderbird
Neck Construction Set-Neck
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 6-String
Offset Body Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Gretsch Artist Signature

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Gretsch Billy Bo G6199?

The Gretsch Billy Bo G6199 features a comfortable set-neck construction with a mahogany neck, providing a smooth playing experience ideal for both rhythm and lead guitarists.

What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the Gretsch Billy Bo G6199?

The Gretsch Billy Bo G6199 is equipped with dual humbucking pickups, delivering a rich and powerful tone suitable for rock, blues, and jazz, with a strong emphasis on clarity and sustain.

Is the Gretsch Billy Bo G6199 suitable for beginners or advanced players?

The Gretsch Billy Bo G6199 is designed with advanced players in mind, offering high-quality craftsmanship and versatile tonal options that cater to experienced musicians seeking a unique sound.

How does the body shape of the Gretsch Billy Bo G6199 affect its playability?

The Gretsch Billy Bo G6199 features a unique double cutaway offset body shape, enhancing access to higher frets and providing a distinctive aesthetic appeal along with comfortable playability.

What is the primary construction material of the Gretsch Billy Bo G6199 body?

The body of the Gretsch Billy Bo G6199 is constructed from maple, contributing to its bright tonal characteristics and excellent resonance.

Deo Bohn

Deo Bohn

Gretsch G6199 "Billy-Bo" Jupiter Thunderbird Great Blues Sounds...

Video thumbnail for Gretsch G6199 "Billy-Bo" Jupiter Thunderbird Great Blues Sounds... by Deo Bohn

Gretsch G6199 "Billy-Bo" Jupiter Thunderbird Great Blues Sounds...

Deo Bohn

Deo Bohn

Video thumbnail for Gretsch G6199 Billy-Bo Firebird Red played by Milo Groenhuijzen | Demo @ The Fellowship of Acoustics by TFOA Demos

Gretsch G6199 Billy-Bo Firebird Red played by Milo Groenhuijzen | Demo @ The Fellowship of Acoustics

TFOA Demos

TFOA Demos

Video thumbnail for Demo Así suena la GRETSCH G6199 BILLY-BO La guitarra más extraña del guitarrista de ZZ Top - Eusica by Eusica

Demo Así suena la GRETSCH G6199 BILLY-BO La guitarra más extraña del guitarrista de ZZ Top - Eusica

Eusica

Eusica

Reviews

PROS

  • Combines retro looks with modern performance for a unique aesthetic

  • Chambered body resonates beautifully, enhancing sound even unplugged

  • Exquisite neck finish with smooth, smaller frets for comfortable play

  • Versatile tone range thanks to TV Jones pickups

  • Master volume control integrated into pickguard for easy access

  • Flawless craftsmanship with impeccable attention to detail

  • Unique body style offers surprising comfort during play

  • Suitable for a wide array of genres from blues to jazz

  • Lifetime quality instrument, built to last

  • Striking Firebird Red finish with bold aesthetic appeal

CONS

  • Plexi pickguard design may bubble over time

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gretsch Billy Bo G6199.

Features and functionality

  • The Gretsch Billy-Bo G6199 comes equipped with TV Jones Power'Tron Plus pickups, known for their dynamic range and vintage tone, ideal for clean and overdriven sounds.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some owners compare the TV Jones pickups to the TV Classic, noting enhanced dynamism and a "thick woman tone," making them superior to other high-end pickups.

    Source
  • The Gretsch Billy-Bo G6199 is likened to a Firebird, described as "ugly but cool," indicating its appeal lies in its unconventional aesthetics.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners highlight the guitar's versatility, stating it delivers a great clean tone and roars with overdrive, making it suitable for various musical styles from blues to rock.

    Source
  • Players note the distinctive body shape requires a longer strap adjustment for comfort, differing from standard guitar models like the Telecaster or St. Vincent.

    Source
  • The guitar is described as feeling "invincible and mighty" when played, suggesting a strong personal connection and confidence boost for performers.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The guitar is noted for its unique shape and aesthetic, distinguishing it from common Stratocaster look-alikes, appealing to fans of distinctive, vintage-inspired designs.

    Source
  • Owners use the Gretsch Billy-Bo G6199 for heavier music genres like doom, crust, and metal, highlighting its adaptability beyond traditional Gretsch styles.

    Source
  • The guitar's unconventional design evokes imaginative descriptions, like being "cried out of an eye into a vortex," reflecting its strong visual impact for stage presence.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Although the guitar is celebrated for its unique design and sound, one owner mentioned a significant investment when purchasing it from a guitar shop in Houston.

    Source
  • Owners consider $1500 a "steal" for a Gretsch Billy-Bo G6199 in near-mint condition, highlighting its high resale value.

    Source

Build quality

  • It's observed that the guitar's unique design resembles a "blood stain," contributing to its bold visual appeal and character on stage.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Gretsch G6199 'Billy-Bo' Jupiter Thunderbird review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Gretsch Billy Bo G6199 is an eccentric and unique guitar that stands out with its striking design and iconic Gretsch twang. While it boasts a great muscular tone, it's not a bargain at its price point. The guitar is well balanced, with no neck dive, and features high-quality craftsmanship. The Power'Tron pickups deliver a robust, hot-rod Gretsch sound, making it perfect for both classic and modern rock. However, the small fretwire might not please everyone, and the price is a definite 'ouch' factor. Overall, it's a niche instrument for those who appreciate its quirky aesthetic and unique sound.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Zac Brown uses Gretsch Billy Bo G6199

Zac Brown

Singer, Guitarist

Zac Brown Band

...
Verified via Chicago Music Exchange
Color/Finish: Korina Year: 2019

"Gretsches sit in a different part of the frequency mix than the Fenders or the Gibsons. They carve a different spot, which is why I played so many live." - Zac Brown

See how Josh Ramsay uses Gretsch Billy Bo G6199

Josh Ramsay

Singer, Guitarist

Marianas Trench

...
Verified via YouTube

Custom Gretsch Billy Bo at 7:24. Really cool smashed mirror model, and eventually shows a checkered model.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gretsch Billy Bo G6199, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

MXR M102 Dyna Comp
MXR M102 Dyna Comp Compressor Effects Pedals
1

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