June 9th marks Les Paul’s birthday. Les was a jazz, country and blues guitarist but he was probably best known for his incredible innovations – among them, the solid-body electric guitar. Though he sadly passed away in 2009, his legacy lives on in the many musicians who choose to use the instrument he pioneered. If it weren’t for Les’ guitars, the world would have missed out on some amazing licks and riffs.
To celebrate Les, here are 10 rockers who use Gibson Les Pauls when they play, along with some of their musical history with the instruments.
1.Jimmy Page:
The Led Zeppelin guitarist’s choice of the Les Paul added much of the band’s trademark heaviness to their sound.
2.Slash:
Some of Guns N’ Roses’ most iconic riffs were created on a Les Paul, like the ones in “Welcome to the Jungle” and “Sweet Child O’ Mine.”
3.Ace Frehley:
The Spaceman wasn’t just known for his make-up, he was also renowned for his Les Paul, which he used to create the music for “Cold Gin,” “Shock Me” and many other Kiss hits.