Half a century ago, Gibson settled into its new home in Nashville, Tennessee—a move that would forever tie Music City to the sound of rock ‘n’ roll. Among the first guitars crafted at the new facility in 1975 were Les Paul Customs, instantly embraced by the heavyweights of the era. Now, as Gibson celebrates 50 years in Nashville, the company is reintroducing one of its most iconic instruments: the Les Paul Custom 70s.

The Les Paul Custom has always carried a touch of class. Nicknamed the “tuxedo guitar” when it first appeared in 1953 at Les Paul’s request, the Custom became the choice for players who wanted both looks and power. By the 1970s, its design evolved to include a multi-piece maple top for added stability, a neck volute for strength, and bold finishes that caught just as much attention as the music played on them.

This new Les Paul Custom 70s brings those details back with striking authenticity. A mahogany body paired with a three-piece maple top delivers the same tonal punch that defined ‘70s hard rock. The maple neck—sculpted in a period-correct profile and reinforced with the signature volute—is fitted with an ebony fretboard, block inlays, and topped with the unmistakable Custom Split Diamond headstock. Gold hardware, Witch Hat knobs, and era-specific Posi-Lok strap locks complete the vintage feel. Under the hood, calibrated T-Type humbuckers wired with Orange Drop capacitors recreate the warm yet biting tone that made the original a legend.

Available in Ebony, Tobacco Burst, Wine Red, and a standout Buttercream Top, each model is finished in gloss nitrocellulose lacquer and shipped with a hardshell case. Whether you’re a collector chasing history or a gigging musician looking for a guitar that commands the stage, the Les Paul Custom 70s offers both heritage and playability in equal measure.

Author: Andrew Braithwaite

Andrew is the founder and chief editor of Music Talkers. He's also a keen music enthusiast and plays the guitar.