The legendary British blues-rock band Fleetwood Mac was the first to place an order for Orange amplification equipment.
The Genesis of Orange Amplification
The journey of Orange Amps began in September 1968. It was during this pivotal time that the esteemed guitarist Peter Green, then a prominent member of Fleetwood Mac, visited the Orange shop. Accompanied by the band's road manager, Dinky Dawson, they made a historic purchase: placing the order for the first ever Orange PA system. This initial acquisition by Fleetwood Mac marked their pioneering use of amplification equipment from the then-nascent Orange brand, setting the stage for Orange's future as a revered name in music amplification.
Orange Amplifiers: A Brief History
- Founding: Orange Amps was founded in London by Cliff Cooper in 1968. Initially, it was both a musical instrument shop and a recording studio, quickly expanding into manufacturing its own amplification equipment.
- Distinctive Sound: Orange amplifiers quickly gained a reputation for their unique, warm, and often overdriven tone, distinguishing them from other brands of the era.
- Design Philosophy: Known for their robust construction and distinctive orange Tolex covering, Orange amps became visually as well as sonically iconic.
- Early Adoption: Following Fleetwood Mac's initial order, Orange amps steadily found their way into the hands of numerous influential musicians and bands across various genres, contributing to their growing reputation.
Impact on Music
The early adoption of Orange amplification by bands like Fleetwood Mac helped cement the brand's place in rock and roll history. Their distinctive sound became a cornerstone for many genres, from heavy rock and metal to blues and indie, influencing countless musicians and shaping the soundscape of modern music. The robust build and unique tonal characteristics of Orange gear made it a favorite on stages and in studios worldwide.
