Shure Celebrates 60 Years Of The Iconic SM58 Microphone

InnovationConsumer TechShure Celebrates 60 Years Of The Iconic SM58 MicrophoneByMark Sparrow,Senior Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Technology journalist specializing in audio, computing and Apple Macs.Follow AuthorMay 18, 2026, 09:00am EDTPaul McCartney performing on stage during a "live" concert appearance with his solo band.John Atashian/Getty ImagesThere’s an old adage about good ideas never going out of fashion. In the case of the Shure SM58 microphone, it’s actually true. For six decades, this humble and affordable microphone has been at the center of some of the most important moments in the world of music and culture. From emerging artists to modern headliners and the most influential performers, the SM58 is without a doubt the most popular dynamic microphone for stage use and live performances. It’s as ubiquitous as a stack of Marshall guitar amplifiers on an Iron Maiden stage. It’s almost indestructible and that is part of the reason for its longevity.Introduced back in 1966 and still in production today, the SM58 is probably the world’s most recognizable live vocal microphone and is used in clubs, theaters, arenas and festivals all around the globe. The SM58 remains firmly rooted in the present because some of today’s most innovative artists across a range of genres are using it. British singer songwriter Olivia Dean has her own chrome-plated Shure SM58 for strage use. SHUREFor example, British singer-songwriter and Best New Artist at the 68th GRAMMY Awards, Olivia Dean, is just one of a new generation of artists using the SM58 as part of their live sound.MORE FOR YOU“The SM58 has been a staple of my live show for years. Having the right microphone is so important to me, I need something reliable, durable and the SM58 has that warm, crisp and classic sound that I love. We ended up going with a chrome finish for The Art of Loving Tour, which fit perfectly with the show design,” says Dean.So, what...