“Paul Reed Smith and I grew up on the same street. He knew I was finishing guitars and one day asked for help. Eventually we needed somebody to head up the factory. He said, 'You’re it’”: How Joe Knaggs became one of America’s most respected guitar makers

Joe Knaggs of Knaggs Guitars with the "Reef of Life" Kenai.

It was pure chance that led to Joe Knaggs becoming a guitar builder. He started his career working at a finishing plant, overseeing the final touches for everything from cars and hospital ductwork to furniture for the White House.

Then one day he got the call that changed his life – an offer from Paul Reed Smith to join the finishing team at his boutique workshop. It was an opportunity too good to refuse. Knaggs’ responsibilities exponentially grew within the company, until one day he decided to part ways and start his own brand.