The first step in the application for a USA patent is thorough research of "prior art." (Prior art means any invention or technology even remotely close to the new invention.) To qualify to receive a patent, the inventor must demonstrate that the invention is truly new and original.

The modern 7 String Electric Guitar has proven to be of great historic relevance as a major development in the progression of musical instruments and music. The absolute truth remains that Maestro Alex Gregory is the true sole inventor of the 7 String Electric Guitar, or Rock N Roll 7 String Guitar, if you prefer, and the only inventor to have been issued 2 patents on this invention. The "Background of the Invention" sections of the Patents explain that there were few rare 7 string guitars before Gregory. There were only acoustic or acoustic electrified, with the extra string (normally a low B) banged on without a dedicated design.

The most famous example is probably the Van Epps 7 String Jazz Acoustic Electrified Guitar by Gretsch. It had no upper access and limited range despite of the 7 strings (20 frets only and single cutaway) as it was conceived to add bass "walking lines" to Jazz chordal playing. Also, it did not have overdriving capability, due to the large hollow acoustic body which was highly prone to undesirable feedback and squealing. This guitar was discontinued in 1974 after a couple of years of production and almost nonexistent sales.

It took more than 10 years of silence before the 7 String Guitar was resurrected single-handedly by Gregory, who gave it a complete new meaning, with the first ever dedicated design and a totally new and revolutionary purpose.

The Fender 7 String Stratocaster Maestro Alex Gregory Signature Model was born and with it a new page in history.