Not all makes and models of guitars are household names. The Gibson Les Paul, though? That’s another story. The guitar in question is beloved by many iconic musicians for its distinctive sound. Among those musicians? Paul McCartney, who had a custom Les Paul made for him prior to a 1988 tribute concert for the guitar’s namesake.
Now, as Robb Reports revealed in a new article, that custom Les Paul is being sold at auction. As the article reveals, McCartney was supposed to take part in Les Paul and Friends: A Tribute Concert, but scheduling conflicts prevented him from performing there. (Among those who did perform: B.B. King, Brian Setzer, Eddie Van Halen and David Gilmour.) The tribute also aired on HBO.
Nonetheless, McCartney did get a custom Les Paul made for the event. Heritage Auctions is currently accepting bids for the guitar, with bidding starting at $40,000. The auction is slated to conclude on July 17.
According to the listing, McCartney can be heard playing this guitar during a pre-recorded segment as part of the special. Its pick guard commemorates the event, with text reading “Paul McCartney 8-18-88.” It’s a piece of musical history — one musical icon paying tribute to another with an equally iconic instrument.
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