1981 Les Paul Custom

My first pro level instrument purchase

As a young 16-year-old, I walked into the local music shop owned by my one-time teacher, Jay Jones. A place called Durham Music. This absolute stunner of a guitar was hanging behind the counter and I asked, “How much?”. “$800,” came the answer and with a little bartering, Jay agreed to let me put some money down on it and come back and make payments until it was finished. That’s what happened. I took it home that night and it’s been with me ever since.

My first guitar – an old Brown sunburst Ibanez Custom – was a nice guitar. Problem was, it wasn’t mine! It was owned by my brother, who generously let me play it. But the time came where I felt I had earned my first proper instrument. Being a long time Randy Rhoads disciple, I always saw myself as a “Gibson Guy” and the Les Paul was the pinnacle of Gibson lineup to me.

It’s such a beautiful guitar in every way. Sounds HUGE. Sustains for days (à la Nigel Tufnel!). When I need a big creamy sound, this is the tool for the job.