ESP was founded in 1975 in Tokyo, Japan, initially as a custom shop for guitarists seeking unique instruments. Over the years, it grew in popularity and began producing a wider range of guitars and basses. The brand gained significant recognition in the 1980s when it started collaborating with famous musicians and bands, solidifying its reputation in the music industry. Today, ESP continues to produce high-quality instruments and has expanded its product lines to include a variety of models.