The Gibson Les Paul is an easily-recognized instrument that is one of the top selling electric guitars of all time. Characterized by a solid maple top and a mahogany body, Les Paul’s are sturdy instruments that are built to withstand a lifetime of play. Unlike most guitars, the Les Paul features a curvy body and small pick guard, which helps it to resonate clearly while maintaining a simple and classic look. Its simple designed and clean appearance help to make this Gibson’s flagship electric guitar. 

Designed with tone and playability elements rather than a flashy look as its main focus, the basic features of this guitar have remained primarily the same since Gibson started manufacturing it in the 1950’s. The Les Paul was initially intended for studio guitarists but, as it’s popularity has grown, it has become a go to for players of virtually all skill levels. 

Weighing over five pounds, the Les Paul is a sturdy guitar that can withstand constant moves between gigs and life onstage. More importantly, the substantial body of the Les Paul helps to create to its rich and consistent tone. Being some of the heaviest guitars around the Les Paul maintains a deeper bass and long sustain.  Unlike on the Fender Stratocaster, the hardware on almost every Les Paul is standard. They most common Les Paul setup consist of 2 volume pots, 2  double coil pickups and tone controls. Gibson’s famous “Humbucker” (double coil) pickups contribute immensely to the Les Paul’s unmistakably classic tone.  These pickups help produce a  high output signal and a mellow quality with markedly decreased treble frequencies. 

Guitarists who prefer to use the Les Paul as their primary guitar include The Edge of U2, Jerry Garcia of Grateful Dead, Lenny Kravitz, Jimmy Page of Led Zepplin, Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones, Carlos Santana, Eddie Van Halen of Van Halen, Angus Young of AC/DC, Slash of Guns n’ Roses, Bob Marley and many more.

As prices can range from $800 – $6,000, if you are an intermediate to expert player, the Les Paul is a great fit for a variety of musical tastes. For beginners, Gibson’s sister brand Epiphone make a versions of the Les Paul that start around $300. If you’re just starting out, and can afford it, you can’t go wrong w/ a Les Paul!

Keep rockin’!

Gibson Les Paul 1957 Gold Top picture from Flicker taken by Vintage and Rare on June 1, 2011
1970 Gibson Les Paul Delux Good picture from Flicker taken by Guitarhanger on April 26 2012