We asked TMG CEO Rossell

Q1. First, please introduce yourself, tell us about your career so far, and how you became involved with TMG.
A. My name is Russell Allen. I am the owner and CEO of TMG Guitar Company. I’ve been playing guitar and piano since I was a child and grew up in the music scene, particularly in the church music community. For the past 20 years, I’ve served as a worship pastor at several churches.
Throughout that time, I’ve been deeply committed to crafting the perfect sound, spending my days refining my gear and sound. Drawing on my experience in the construction industry, I’ve also been involved in woodworking and fabrication, creating custom pedalboards and furniture.
In 2015, he discovered TMG Guitars and was captivated by their quality. He served as an ambassador, accompanying the brand to the NAMM Show and assisting with sales, eventually taking over the brand.


Q2. What do you value most in guitar making?
A. There are three main things.
First is the selection of materials. I carefully select and source the highest quality tonewoods. While I sometimes use aluminum for the body, I fundamentally value traditional tonewoods.
Next is attention to detail. We use nitrocellulose lacquer for the finish, pursuing a vintage-like tone and character. We also apply aging treatments with a conscious focus on the “story” the guitar has gone through.
And the most important factor is “feel.” When everything—from the neck’s grip to the fretwork and string tension—is in harmony, the player can immerse themselves in the music without even thinking about the instrument.


Q3. What kind of players are TMG guitars suited for?
A. We want to offer them to all players—whether professional or amateur—who are searching for their own “voice.”
They are especially ideal for those who love that vintage feel and seek reliability and playability on stage.
While paying homage to vintage instruments, TMG pursues perfection as a “tool” capable of holding its own in the modern music scene.


Q4. Please tell us about the characteristics and philosophy of the TMG brand.
A. At its core is the philosophy of “guitars by players, 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 these relationships are an integral part of the brand.
One of our strengths is that, precisely because we are a small team, we can pour our soul into every single instrument we make.


Q5. What are TMG’s strengths in guitar making?
A. It’s the fusion of musical experience and craftsmanship.
With 20 years of performance experience, combined with a background in woodworking and instrument making, we can craft guitars from both a player’s perspective and a craftsman’s perspective.
In addition, I play every guitar myself and perform a final check before shipping.


Q6. Please tell us about your future plans.
A. We are setting up a better production environment at our new workshop in Georgia.
Rather than increasing production volume, I prioritize improving efficiency while maintaining quality.
I will continue to uphold the values of “feel,” “tone,” and “craftsmanship.”


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


Q8. Finally, what is TMG’s ultimate goal?
A. To provide players with that moment when they feel, “This is my sound.”
To achieve this, we pour our soul into crafting every single guitar.
TMG will continue to be a brand that gives shape to the passion of players.