Gibson has announced a special tribute to its legacy and a nod to a rock icon with the release of the limited-edition Jimmy Page 1964 SJ-200 guitars. This launch, including a Collector’s Edition, marks Gibson’s momentous 130th anniversary. Fans and collectors alike are eagerly anticipating this release, which celebrates both Gibson’s rich history and Jimmy Page’s legendary status.
A Faithful Recreation of a Legend’s Acoustic: The 1964 SJ-200
This collaboration is a heartfelt homage to the very guitar that Jimmy Page wielded during the recording of Led Zeppelin’s groundbreaking 1969 debut album. The mid-60s Gibson SJ-200 is an iconic instrument, and this meticulous recreation aims to capture every nuance of the original. From its sonic characteristics to its visual appeal, no detail has been overlooked. Notably, the guitar boasts the striking Cherry Tea sunburst finish, a hallmark of the original mid-60s model, ensuring visual authenticity.
Gibson is releasing two versions of this celebratory guitar. A highly exclusive 1964 SJ-200 Collector’s Edition, limited to just 50 instruments worldwide, will feature a signature from Jimmy Page himself, making it an ultimate collector’s item. Alongside this, a slightly more accessible Jimmy Page 1964 SJ-200 model, limited to 100 guitars, will also be available. Both editions have been crafted with “significant input” from Jimmy Page, ensuring these guitars are not just replicas, but truly representative of his cherished instrument. For those interested in owning a piece of rock history, these guitars can be found at Gibson.com.
Alt text: Close-up of Jimmy Page passionately playing a Gibson SJ-200 acoustic guitar, showcasing its Cherry Tea sunburst finish, during a Led Zeppelin concert.
The SJ-200: A Guitar with a Storied Past
Beyond its pivotal role on Led Zeppelin’s debut, the Gibson SJ-200 holds a special place in Jimmy Page’s career. He famously played this model during his memorable 1970 solo performance on the Julie Felix Show. This performance, featuring renditions of ‘White Summer/Black Mountain Side’, further cemented the SJ-200’s place in musical history and showcased its versatility in the hands of a master.
Listen to Jimmy Page discuss his collaboration with Gibson on this anniversary project: [Link to audio/video if available in original article].
Page’s connection with Gibson extends beyond this anniversary model. Earlier this year, he joined fellow guitar legends Brian May and Tony Iommi at the launch of the new Gibson Garage in London. Speaking at the event, Page expressed a deep affinity for Gibson guitars, highlighting the “spirit in the place” and recalling his early connection with Gibson Les Paul Custom and Doubleneck guitars. This enduring relationship underscores the significance of this SJ-200 reissue.
Alt text: Detailed view of a Gibson SJ-200 guitar, emphasizing the craftsmanship of its body, soundhole, and iconic design, highlighting its acoustic excellence.
Gibson’s 130th Anniversary: A Celebration of Guitar Heritage
The Jimmy Page SJ-200 release is part of Gibson’s broader 130th-anniversary celebrations. Gibson has also announced other commemorative instruments, such as the ‘YardBurst’ 1959 Les Paul Custom, honoring Jeff Beck. This series of releases demonstrates Gibson’s commitment to celebrating its legacy by recreating iconic guitars associated with legendary musicians.
In other news related to Jimmy Page, he made a surprise appearance at the 2023 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, paying tribute to Link Wray. Furthermore, the highly anticipated Becoming Led Zeppelin documentary is finally slated for cinema release, offering fans deeper insights into the band’s history.
This limited-edition Gibson Jimmy Page SJ-200 guitar is more than just an instrument; it’s a piece of music history, a tribute to a legendary guitarist, and a celebration of Gibson’s 130 years of crafting exceptional guitars. It’s a must-have for collectors, Jimmy Page enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates the legacy of the Gibson SJ-200.
