Paul Reed Smith Inducted Into Rockwalk

The renowned guitar maker was honored for five decades of industry innovation in Austin.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Rock

A professional electric guitar on a stand on an outdoor stone stage at sunset, evoking the atmosphere of a music festival. — Guitar maker Paul Reed Smith was inducted into the Guitar Center Rockwalk during the 2026 Crossroads Guitar Festival in Austin. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Guitar Center inducted Paul Reed Smith into its Rockwalk during a ceremony at the 2026 Crossroads Guitar Festival in Austin. Smith participated in the event by placing his handprints in cement.

Why it matters

The induction recognizes Smith for five decades of contributions to musical craftsmanship and innovation. His work at PRS Guitars has significantly shaped the development of high-quality electric instruments.

PRS Guitars currently holds the position of the third-largest electric guitar manufacturer in the United States. The company has operated for over four decades following its founding in 1985.

The players

Paul Reed Smith

He is the founder of PRS Guitars and has spent five decades refining electric instrument craftsmanship.

John Mayer

He is a prominent singer-songwriter and guitarist who served as the presenter during the induction ceremony.

Guitar Center

This is a major American music retailer that manages the Rockwalk to honor influential figures in the music industry.

The details

Musician John Mayer introduced Smith during the presentation held at the Dell West Plaza. Following the ceremony, the handprints will be permanently installed at the Guitar Center flagship location on Sunset Boulevard.

PRS Guitars was founded in 1985.
The induction occurred Saturday, September 26, 2026.

Industry Dynamics

The induction follows the historical pattern set by Guitar Center's Rockwalk, which has honored over 150 music industry legends since its inception in 1985. This recognition underscores the long-term impact of independent manufacturing pioneers on the global guitar market.

Fans can look forward to seeing the new commemorative handprints on public display at the flagship Sunset Boulevard store in the future. The event highlights the enduring legacy of the instruments that many guitarists currently use in their own setups.

The takeaway

Smith’s career highlights the significant impact that dedicated engineering and craftsmanship have on the evolution of modern music. Aspiring builders and musicians can view his induction as a testament to the long-term influence of high-quality instrument manufacturing.