Seventies Chic

After some considerable time, the Les Paul Custom returns to Gibson USA's production line-up in classic 70s style, while the lesser Marauder is celebrated with a limited throwback design. Time to investigate!

- Words Dave Burrluck Photography Phil Barker

GIBSON LES PAUL CUSTOM 70S & LES PAUL MUSIC CITY SPECIAL 50TH ANNIVERSARY

£3,499 & £1,599 CONTACT Gibson PHONE [phone] WEB www.gibson.​com

1 Isn't the Les Paul Custom a standard model?

It is now! For the past 20 years, the Les Paul Custom has only been available from Gibson Custom, not in the more production-led Gibson USA line-up. But you can now get your hands on a Custom in 70s dress for considerably less than one from Gibson Custom. About time!

2 What's with the Music City Special?

This homage to the Marauder which had its moment back in the day is a celebration of Gibson's Nashville factory, which opened 50 years ago. It's limited to 650 pieces worldwide in each of its three colours.

3 Maple necks on Gibsons? That's so wrong...

The 70s were a time of huge upheaval for both Fender and Gibson with ownership changes, production cost-cutting and a bit of a desire to do something different. Gibson turned its back on its past by using alternative woods, laminated mahogany and maple necks, 'pancake' bodies, hotter pickups and, on occasion, some pretty wacky circuits. Oh, how we laughed.

Although the Les Paul Custom was 70 years old in 2024, this new release from Gibson USA celebrates the return of the model in 1968 after it had been replaced by what we know as the SG in 1961.