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History of Norlin®
The Beginning (α)
In 1969, Norlin® became the majority shareholder of the Chicago Musical Instrument Co. The name “Norlin” was created as a portmanteau of Norton Stevens of ECL and Arnold Berlin of CMI. This marked the beginning of the legendary Norlin® era in music history.
The Influence
It’s difficult to measure the full impact Norlin® had on the music industry. From pioneering manufacturing techniques to introducing unique designs and construction methods, the Norlin® era helped shape generations of musical instruments and musicians alike.
During its time, Norlin® owned many legendary brands including but not limited to...
1969 - 1986 | Epiphone® - Guitars
1969 - 1978 | F. E. Olds & Son® - Brass Instruments
1969 - 1986 | Gibson® - Guitars
1969 - 1986 | Lowrey® - Organs
1973 - 1986 | Moog® - Synthesizers
1969 - 1986 | Pearl® - Drums
1969 - 1986 | Selmer® - Legendary UK Instrument Store
1969 - 1973 | Standel® - Amplifiers
1969 - 1986 | William Lewis & Son Co.® - Stringed Instruments
You’d be hard-pressed to find an album recorded after 1969 that didn’t feature a Norlin® era instrument somewhere in the mix.
The End (Ω)
In 1984, Norlin® found itself on the receiving end of a hostile takeover that marked the end of the Norlin® era. Over time, company assets were divided and sold off, leadership was replaced and the once-powerful Norlin® name faded from the forefront of the music industry.
What had once been a major force behind some of the most recognizable brands in music eventually became a dormant asset, remembered primarily through the instruments, innovations and unmistakable legacy left behind during the Norlin® era.
Even decades later, the influence of that period continues to resonate throughout the guitar world, with collectors, players, builders, and enthusiasts still celebrating the designs and manufacturing techniques that defined the time.
The Resurrection
In 2025, Norlin® made an unexpected comeback, reemerging after decades of dormancy to reclaim its place in music history.
Once known as one of the most influential names connected to the golden age of electric guitars, the revived Norlin® brand returned with a renewed focus on innovation, customization and premium hardware for modern players and vintage enthusiasts alike.
The comeback was driven by a passion for the Norlin® era and the unmistakable character that defined the instruments of the late 1960s, 1970s and early 1980s. Rather than simply revisiting the past, the new Norlin® era set out to blend vintage inspiration with modern technology and manufacturing techniques.
Today, Norlin® specializes in high-end guitar parts and Custom Shop services to fit Gibson® guitars and Norlin® era instruments, including OEM-style replacement hardware, engraving, UV printing, Cerakote® finishes, restoration components and one-off custom designs.
Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the return of Norlin® represents both a tribute to guitar history and a bold step forward into the future of guitar customization.
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