The Gibson SG made its debut in 1961. In an interesting turn of events, this coincided with a hiatus in the production of the Les Paul, which had been a staple of Gibson’s lineup since its introduction nine years earlier. The new SG design certainly turned heads with its radical body contours and distinctive “devil horns,” but here’s the kicker for trivia buffs: it bore Les Paul’s name engraved on the truss rod plate. This was a whole new instrument, however, and it would eventually be re-badged the SG (which, rather intuitively, stood for “solid guitar”) for the ’64 model year. The SG would go on to rock greatness, with vintage models (particularly the ’61) commanding lofty prices in today’s used market. But you don’t have to spend a fortune to own one of these legendary solidbody electric guitars. Crafted in collaboration with the Gibson Custom Shop, the Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard delivers the tone, playability, and looks of this coveted classic at a price any guitarist can afford. Complete with a luscious, vintage-inspired finish, fine appointments, and a vintage-style hardshell case, the Epiphone 1961 Les Paul SG Standard is must-have for all SG fans.
