The classic Gibson guitar

There are many classic and well known guitars out there, but perhaps the most recognizable is the classic Gibson guitar. This is a guitar make that has reached a cult status among guitar players and it is one that will earn you instant respect if you should pull it out in the right company.

 If you were to list all of the rock stars and musicians ever to have used Gibson guitars then you would have a very long list. However there are some players who have a particular connection to the guitars and who are known for playing Gibson guitars. For instance Johnny A used a 'signature model' made specifically for him by Gibson in order that it should fit his particular specifications. Billie Joe Armstrong used several vintage 1950s models meanwhile, while Jeff Beck of the Yardbirds bought his first Les Paul for £150 and described it as having a 'deep powerful sound' and being able to imitate just about anything'. One of the most famous Gibson guitars meanwhile is George Harrison's 'Lucy', and Justin Hayward of the Moody Blues used an ES-335 for his entire career. Even Jimi Hendrix – normally known for playing a Stratocaster, used several different Gibson guitars during his career. And it's not all older artists – more recently James Hetfield of Metalllica used an Explorer model. Bb Marley is even buried with his Les Paul Special.

 While there are many different kinds of Gibson guitar, for many the real 'classic' is the original Les Paul. Les Paul was a jazz and country singer and songwriter who invented the 'solid body' electric guitar – meaning it was an electric guitar that you could pick up and play. While many people have been called the 'Godfather' of rock and roll one way or another – it was Les Paul who actually made rock and roll (and rock on its own) possible at all.

He was an early experimenter with overdubbing, delay effects, phasing, tape delay and multitrack recording – without which we would not have bands such as Radiohead. As an innovator even his playing style was unique with specific chording sequences, fretting techniques and unusual timing.

 The Gibson Les Paul was first sold in 1952, meaning that there are some very valuable old ones out there. It was a collaboration between Les Paul and Ted McCarty. This is the 'original' electric guitar if you will, and as such it has a very important place in rock and roll history.

 If you are looking to get yourself a new electric guitar, then getting a Gibson means taking on a great heritage and joining the ranks of many famous musicians. Make sure that you look at all the options available to you and you take time choosing a model that suits you and a look that will do you proud if ever you should choose to tour. And remember as well that the sound you create will also be dictated by your other accessories such as your foot pedal and amps.