Guitar Magazine July 2026 Issue Released Today: The Beatles Super Introduction as Cultural Literacy

Rittor Music Co., Ltd. (headquartered in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President and CEO: Daisuke Matsumoto), a music media company under the Impress Group, has released the July 2026 issue of Guitar Magazine titled 'Guitar Magazine July 2026 Issue / The Beatles as Cultural Literacy' on June 12, 2026.

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the legendary Beatles concert at Nippon Budokan in 1966, which sent shockwaves through Japan's music scene. The contributions of John Lennon, George Harrison, Paul McCartney, and Ringo Starr to popular music are immeasurable. Many techniques and ideas now considered standard in today’s music landscape were pioneered by them.

However, an increasing number of young guitarists and music fans today are unfamiliar with their greatness and depth. To address this, this special feature presents a comprehensive project designed for Beatles beginners who are curious but unsure of 'what makes them great' or 'where to start listening.' From cultural trivia to an in-depth exploration of the core of their musical appeal, this issue covers it all.

1. [Lecture Series] The Beatles' Arrival in Japan and the Japanese Music Scene at the Time

A special lecture series from 'The Beatles University,' curated by music critic Masataka Miyanaga, offers a vivid look back at the state of rock music in Japan at the time and the electrifying atmosphere of the legendary Nippon Budokan concert.

2. Experts Answer Deep-Dive Questions: 'The Beatles Super Beginner Q&A'

Experts provide thorough answers to fundamental questions that many hesitate to ask. From the truth behind their formation and breakup to the guitar techniques and favorite gear used by John, Paul, and George, this section clearly explains their deeper musical appeal.

3. Learning Magical Chords and Backing Techniques from All 13 Albums

A hands-on section where readers can experience the brilliance and 'inventions' of The Beatles' songs by actually playing guitar. This practical approach uncovers the secrets behind their songwriting.

4. The Legacy of Instrument Brands That Supported the Legend

An exploration of 'Rickenbacker' and 'VOX,' iconic brands that defined The Beatles' sound, highlighting the history and craftsmanship of these legendary instrument makers.

The music of The Beatles continues to be beloved across generations. Behind its magic lies countless innovative ideas that laid the foundation for modern rock and pop music.

This special feature will vividly rekindle the excitement of the past for longtime fans and serve as a 'textbook of music' that inspires a new generation. On this significant 60th anniversary, we invite you to experience the profound history and essence of the great music The Beatles created.

■ Publication Details

Title: Guitar Magazine July 2026 Issue

Price: ¥1,400 (¥1,540 before 10% tax)

Release Date: June 12, 2026

Publisher: Rittor Music

Product Page: https://www.rittor-music.co.jp/magazine/detail/3126111003/

CONTENTS

● SPECIAL PROGRAM

60th Anniversary Commemorative Feature: The Beatles as Cultural Literacy

■ INTRODUCTION / The Beatles University Lecture Series

　1966: The Year The Beatles Arrived!

■ Experts Answer Your Simple Questions!

　The Beatles Super Beginner Q&A

■ Learn From All 13 Albums

　Magical Chords & Backing Techniques

● THE INSTRUMENTS 1

The World of Rickenbacker, Beloved by The Beatles

● THE INSTRUMENTS 2

VOX 70th Anniversary

Tracing VOX's Journey with The Beatles

● THE INSTRUMENTS 3

Non × Kotaro Furichi ×

Fender Made in Japan Hybrid II 2026 Collection

● INTERVIEW & GEAR

Gary Lucas

American Football

Tommy Guerrero & Josh Ripple

● REPORT

Live Report: Idol Music Festival The ONE ~Ichion Isshō~

Sound Messe in OSAKA 2026: A Report on the Guitar Magazine-Hosted Event!

● OPENING ACT

Kazunari Wada (the bercedes menz)

● GM SELECTIONS

"While My Guitar Gently Weeps" by The Beatles

● PICKUP

Positive Grid REACTOR × Akikazu Kuroda — The Next-Gen AI Amp That Sparks Guitarist Creativity, Now Launched!

Kaho (Faulieu.) meets Positive Grid Spark 2 & Spark AI 2.0 Beta

TikTok LIVE feat. Yuya Kono — Live Streaming Features Supporting New Performance Styles for Guitarists

● SERIALS

Dreaming of the Fender Custom Shop

Tomo Fujita's "Guitar Doesn't Ring in a Day!"

Toshiki Soejima's Dive to Neo Soul

Mamoru Torii's Journey Through Roots Across East and West

Sōshi Sakiyama's "Encounter with the Unknown"

● REGULAR

NEWS & TOPICS — What Are Your Favorite Guitarists Doing Now?

NEW DISC REVIEW

Reader Service Guide / Back Issues

● NEW PRODUCTS REVIEW

GRETSCH / ELECTROMATIC PREMIER JET

GIBSON USA / ES-335 50S

AUL REED SMITH / CUSTOM 24 MANGO TOP LIMITED EDITION

DIGITECH / HAMMERON

ELECTRO-HARMONIX / BIG MUFF PI 2

DOPHIX / MICHELANGELO MINI

SONICAKE / POCKET CONTROL QCT-4

----------------

● Supplemental Mini-Booklet

Guitar Mastery Guidebook: 'Yurino Yumiki's After-School Electric Guitar Club Vol. 8' — Learn from New and Classic Hits

・"Marigold" by Aimyon

・"Hey Joe" by The Jimi Hendrix Experience

【Rittor Music Co., Ltd.】https://www.rittor-music.co.jp/

Rittor Music publishes specialized magazines for musicians and creators, such as 'Guitar Magazine' and 'Sound & Recording Magazine,' as well as instructional books for musical instruments. The company also engages in digital publishing, video and audio distribution, and operates web services including 'Digital Mart,' Japan's largest instrument marketplace, and 'T-OD,' a T-shirt on-demand sales site.

【Impress Group】https://www.impressholdings.com/

Impress Holdings Co., Ltd. (headquartered in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President: Yukio Tsukamoto) is the holding company of a media group focusing on specialized media and services in 'IT,' 'music,' 'design,' 'mountaineering and nature,' 'aviation and railways,' 'mobile services,' and 'academic and engineering sciences.'