Gibson has announced a special release to mark their 130th anniversary, creating excitement among musicians and collectors alike. In collaboration with legendary guitarist Jimmy Page, they are launching limited run recreations of the iconic 1964 SJ-200 guitar. This celebrated instrument holds a special place in music history, most notably as the guitar Page famously played on Led Zeppelin’s groundbreaking 1969 debut album. This faithful recreation promises to capture the magic of the original mid-60s Gibson SJ-200, including its striking Cherry Tea sunburst finish.
Alt text: Jimmy Page holding a Gibson SJ-200 guitar, announcing the release of the 130th Anniversary limited edition models.
This release includes two distinct offerings: the highly exclusive 1964 SJ-200 Collector’s Edition and the Jimmy Page 1964 SJ-200. Reflecting the rarity and prestige, only 50 of the Collector’s Edition guitars will be produced, each bearing a signature from Jimmy Page himself. The Jimmy Page 1964 SJ-200 model will be limited to 100 instruments worldwide. According to Gibson’s press release, both editions have been developed with “significant input” from Page, ensuring an authentic representation of his beloved guitar. For those interested in acquiring one of these limited instruments, they are available through Gibson’s official website.
The Gibson SJ-200’s significance extends beyond Led Zeppelin’s debut. Jimmy Page’s performance on the Julie Felix Show in 1970 further cemented the guitar’s iconic status. During this solo appearance, he delivered a memorable rendition of ‘White Summer/Black Mountain Side’, played on his cherished SJ-200. This performance is a testament to the versatility and rich sound of the SJ-200 Gibson guitar in the hands of a master.
Alt text: Black and white photo of Jimmy Page performing ‘White Summer/Black Mountain Side’ on the Julie Felix Show in 1970, showcasing his vintage SJ-200 acoustic guitar.
Earlier this year, Jimmy Page joined fellow guitar icons Brian May and Tony Iommi at the launch of the new Gibson Garage in London. Speaking at the event, Page shared his deep connection with Gibson guitars: “There is a spirit in the place. After seeing the people working at the factories and getting a connection with them, I knew that picking up that Les Paul Custom and the Doubleneck all those years ago was certainly the right decision… I really wanted to have something that was exactly the same as my one.” This passion for Gibson craftsmanship is clearly evident in his involvement with the new SJ-200 recreations.
Gibson’s 130th-anniversary celebrations also include another notable tribute to guitar history. They recently announced the ‘YardBurst’ 1959 Les Paul Custom, honoring the legendary Jeff Beck. This model pays homage to the iconic 1959 Les Paul Standard that Beck played during his formative years with the Yardbirds, further demonstrating Gibson’s commitment to celebrating pivotal moments in guitar history and the artists who shaped them.
Alt text: Promotional image showcasing the Gibson Jeff Beck Yardburst 1959 Les Paul Custom guitar, another 130th-anniversary release.
Adding to his recent activities, Jimmy Page made a surprise appearance at the 2023 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in November. He honored the influential roots guitarist Link Wray by performing Wray’s iconic track ‘Rumble’, demonstrating his continued passion for guitar music and its heritage.
Furthermore, the highly anticipated documentary Becoming Led Zeppelin is finally scheduled for cinema release. This film, first announced in 2019, offers a deep dive into the early years of the iconic band and is eagerly awaited by fans worldwide.
The release of the Jimmy Page 1964 SJ-200 Gibson guitars is a significant event for collectors and fans of both Jimmy Page and Gibson. These limited-edition instruments represent a unique opportunity to own a piece of rock history, meticulously crafted to capture the essence of a legendary guitar played by a legendary musician. The SJ-200 Gibson guitar, in its various iterations, continues to hold a special place in the hearts of guitarists, and this collaboration further solidifies its iconic status.
