I asked TMG CEO Rossell.

Q1. First, please introduce yourself, your career to date, and your relationship with TMG.
A. I'm Russell Allen, owner and CEO of TMG Guitar Company. I've been playing guitar and piano since I was a child, and I grew up in the music scene, especially church music. For the past 20 years, I've served as a worship pastor in several churches.
Throughout my career, I've dedicated myself to meticulous sound creation, spending my days pursuing the perfect equipment and sound. Furthermore, drawing on my experience in the construction industry, I've also been involved in woodworking and manufacturing, creating custom pedalboards and furniture.
I encountered TMG guitars in 2015, was captivated by their quality, and became an ambassador, accompanying them to the NAMM Show and helping with sales, eventually leading to me taking over the brand.


Q2. What is the most important thing you consider when making guitars?
A. There are three main points.
First and foremost is material selection. We carefully select and source only the highest quality tonewoods. While we sometimes use aluminum for the body, we fundamentally value traditional tonewoods.
Next, let's talk about attention to detail. Nitrocellulose lacquer is used for the finish, pursuing a vintage-like sound and texture. The aging process is also applied with the "story" of the guitar in mind.
And most importantly, there's the "feeling." When everything—the grip on the neck, the fretwork, the string tension, etc.—is in harmony, the player can immerse themselves in the music without even thinking about the instrument.


Q3. What kind of player is TMG guitar suitable for?
A. I want to reach all players, professional or amateur, who are searching for their own "voice."
This is especially ideal for those who appreciate a vintage feel and prioritize reliability and ease of use in the field.
While paying homage to vintage styles, TMG strives for perfection as a "tool" that can compete in the modern music scene.


Q4. Please tell us about the characteristics and philosophy of the TMG brand.
A. The core idea is "a guitar made by a player, for players."
We are not just a manufacturer; we are a community that values dialogue with players. Many of our model names are derived from real players, and the relationship itself is an integral part of our brand.
One of our strengths is that, as a small team, we can put our heart and soul into every single product we create.


Q5. What are TMG's strengths in guitar manufacturing?
A. It's a fusion of musical experience and craftsmanship.
With 20 years of playing experience, plus a background in woodworking and craftsmanship, I can create guitars from both a player's and a craftsman's perspective.
Furthermore, I personally play every guitar and perform a final check before shipping it out.


Q6. Please tell us about your future prospects.
A. We are creating a better production environment in our new workshop in Georgia.
Rather than increasing production volume, we prioritize improving efficiency while maintaining quality.
We will continue to uphold our values of "feeling," "tone," and "craftsmanship."


Q7. Do you have a message for your Japanese fans?
A. We are very honored that people in Japan appreciate our guitars.
I feel that Japan has a wonderful musical culture and many players with very discerning ears.
I look forward to visiting Japan soon and interacting with you in person. Until then, I hope you can feel our passion through our guitars.


Q8. Finally, what are TMG's goals?
A. Our goal is to provide players with that moment when they feel, "This is my sound."
That's why we put our heart and soul into making each and every one of them.
TMG will continue to be a brand that brings players' passion to life.