CHICAGO MUSIC EXCHANGE CHICAGO Chicago Music Exchange (CME) has long been a landmark for guitar enthusiasts, and its iconic guitar wall is designed to offer the most comprehensive selection possible, ensuring every musician — whether a seasoned collector or a first-time buyer — can find an instrument that speaks to them. Over the years, the store has built a reputation for having not only a stunning Les Paul wall, but also one of the most extensive displays of Rickenbackers in the country. Beyond its main guitar wall, Chicago Music Exchange takes its presentation to the next level with The Vault [inset] — a dedicated space for the rarest and most coveted guitars. CEO Andrew Yonke describes it as “the best of the best,” housing vintage and special-run guitars that are nearly impossible to find elsewhere. Walking into the store, custom- ers are immediately met with an unforgettable sight: dozens of Gibson Les Pauls staring back. Keeping inventory fresh is a con -
stant process, as guitars are sold right off the wall every day. So, CME regularly brings in extraordinary and unique finds, from a serious PRS Wood Library col- lection to an original 1974 Telecaster. To ensure every guitar is dis - played with the care it deserves, Chicago Music Exchange uses an extra-reinforced slat wall with metal inserts for stability, as well as custom- made, single-cabinet lighted displays to highlight each guitar’s craftsmanship.
The well-curated guitar wall is more than just a product display — it’s a statement that conveys the vibe of the store’s showroom. Music retailers around the world take pride in crafting visually striking arrangements that not only showcase their inventory but also create an immersive experience for customers. Some em- brace a sleek, modern aesthetic with carefully color-coordinated rows of electrics, while others lean into a vintage charm, showcasing rare and historic models like pieces in a museum. Music Inc. gathered the top five most eye-catching guitar walls, each reflecting the retailer’s unique aesthetic. These walls serve as both functional showcases and artistic centerpieces, proving that presentation is just as important as selection. BY KIMBERLY KAPELA
46 I MUSIC INC. I MAY 2025
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