Gibson Les Paul

Developed in partnership with guitarist and studio innovator Les Paul, Gibson launched the Les Paul in 1952 as its answer to Fender’s solid bodies. A mahogany back with carved maple top, set neck, and later humbucking pickups produced thick sustain that powered the British blues boom, hard rock, and countless studio sessions. Bursts from 1958–60 became legendary, and the model’s prestige endures from jazz stages to metal arenas.

• Introduced: 1952 (Kalamazoo, Michigan, USA)
• Signature traits: Carved maple cap, mahogany set neck, dual humbuckers
• Notable players: Jimmy Page, Slash, Gary Moore