A tribute to 2 guitar legends
For over 130 years, Gibson has defined the sound of music, becoming one of the world’s most beloved and respected guitar brands. Now, Gibson Custom has launched its latest release, the Eric Clapton 1958 Les Paul Custom, a guitar that pays tribute to two of the most iconic and influential guitarists of all time: Eric Clapton and Albert Lee.
The new model is a nod to Clapton’s original 1958 Les Paul Custom, which he used extensively during his time with Cream and throughout his career. This limited-edition guitar, featuring impeccable artisanry, has been produced using the Gibson Custom Shop’s renowned Murphy Lab aging techniques, ensuring it mirrors every detail of Clapton’s beloved instrument. Only 150 units will be made, making it a highly collectible piece of musical history.
The guitar comes with a second pickguard, personally signed by both Clapton and Lee, and is presented in a specially designed wooden display case. The Eric Clapton 1958 Les Paul Custom is now available through Guitar Center, the Gibson Garage locations in Nashville and London, on Gibson.com and via authorised Gibson dealers globally.
Clapton, renowned for his work with The Yardbirds, John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers, Cream, and his solo career, has influenced generations of musicians. With 18 Grammy Awards and over 100 million records sold, Clapton remains one of the world’s most successful and admired musicians. His contribution to music has earned him numerous accolades, including three inductions into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
The story behind this limited-edition model is one of musical camaraderie. During Cream’s 1968 American tour, Clapton purchased a three-pickup 1958 Les Paul Custom, serial number 8 6320, which he played throughout the late 60s and 70s. In 1979, Clapton gifted the guitar to fellow guitarist Albert Lee, who still plays it.
The Eric Clapton 1958 Les Paul Custom replicates every nuance of the original, from the hand-selected mahogany body to the precise neck profile and gold-aged hardware. The guitar has three unpotted Custombuckers and CTS 500k audio taper potentiometers, just like the original. The Murphy Lab ageing process ensures the guitar’s wear and tear perfectly reflects the use it received by both Clapton and Lee.
Each guitar has a certificate of authenticity, a black leather Archive Series strap, a custom switch plate medallion, and a Chuck Stewart photo. With only 150 available, this rare and exceptional instrument is an essential addition for collectors and music enthusiasts.
Image: The Eric Clapton 1958 Les Paul Custom replicates every nuance of the original. Credit: Gibson
