Gibson Les Paul Standard

The Gibson Les Paul Standard was first introduced in 1952 and has since become a classic. The LP was the fruit of a collaboration between the Gibson Guitar Corporation and the innovative jazz guitarist Les Paul—whose invention called the “log” is deemed the world’s first solid body electric guitar. Because the Les Paul was meant to compete with the Fender Telecaster (1950) and eventually the Stratocaster (1954), certain decisions were made with regards to design that would set the instrument apart. While Fender was using solid colors on their Strats, Gibson steered towards elegance. The original Les Paul came in Goldtop (because Les Paul claimed it made the guitar look expensive) and straight black (because it made your fingers look like they were moving at lightning speed). In addition, the LP featured a single cutaway carved maple top placed over a mahogany back and a set (glued) mahogany neck—both for improved sustain—with a rosewood fingerboard and 3-per-side tuners.

The contemporary version sports a variety of the last 50 years’ most popular features plus a few modern touches. It’s available in a number of colors—a variety of sunbursts, honey, black, and Goldtop. There is an option for neck profiles—a thicker 50s style or the 60s slim taper design. The two humbucking pickups are alnico wound “Burstbuckers” based on the original “PAF” design. The body is carefully chambered (with the aid of a computer) for more resonance and a lighter body.

One of the most iconic and important guitars ever built. The Gibson Les Paul basically paved the way for hard rock and in conjunction with a Marshall amplifier created one of the most definitive rock sounds ever produced. Rejoice in the mighty splendor of what is the Gibson Les Paul. God’s of Rock; we salute you for bestowing such an instrument upon your humble servants.