The Golden Age of Gibson Les Paul Juniors: A Look Back at the 1958-1961 Era
The Gibson Les Paul Junior was a revolutionary instrument in the mid-20th century, much like its more famous sibling, the Les Paul. During the period of 1958 to 1961, this model underwent a unique transformation that set it apart from its peers. This era is often considered the golden age of the Gibson Les Paul Junior—a time characterized by classic double cutaway design and the iconic meaty dog-ear P-90 pickup.
Double Cutaway Design
The Gibson Les Paul Junior of the 1958-1961 era was distinguished by its double cutaway design. Unlike its more modern cousin, the SG, the Junior did not have a shallow, ergonomic shape typical of SG guitars. Instead, it boasted a fully cutaway body that offered better access to the upper frets. This design choice was revolutionary for its time, providing guitarists with more versatile playing capabilities.
Malty Dog-Ear P-90 Pickup
The sound signature of the Gibson Les Paul Junior during these years was characterized by the unmistakable meaty dog-ear P-90 pickup. Unlike the humbucking pickups that would come to define Les Paul guitars in later years, these P-90 pickups produced a rich, warm, and naturally distorted tone. The pickup was screwed directly to the top of the guitar, near the wraparound bridge, providing a distinctive and powerful sound. This pickup was a significant factor in the Junior’s enduring popularity, even as other guitar manufacturers sought to emulate its unique tone.
Construction and Features
The Gibson Les Paul Junior of the 1958-1961 era was renowned for its well-made construction. The body was typically constructed from mahogany, which provided a solid and resonant foundation for the instrument. Later models even featured a wider, flatter neck, which contributed to the Junior’s reputation as a rock and roll machine. This design choice made it particularly well-suited for the fast, aggressive playing styles of the era, blending the rich, full-bodied tone of the Les Paul with the versatility and playability of a more streamlined design.
It’s worth noting that around the same period, Epiphone also released the Coronet, a guitar with similar specifications that was offered at a more affordable price point. While genetically identical to the Gibson Junior, the Epiphone Coronet provided a budget-friendly option for musicians seeking the same classic sound and design.
Impact on Music
The Gibson Les Paul Junior during this golden age had a profound impact on music. Musicians like Les Paul himself, Eric Clapton, and Jimi Hendrix were among those who embraced the Junior’s unique sound. Its enduring influence can be heard across various musical genres, from rock and roll to blues and beyond. The guitar’s versatility and rich tone made it a favorite among session musicians and professional players alike, contributing to its lasting legacy in the world of music.
Conclusion
The 1958-1961 era marked a defining period in the history of the Gibson Les Paul Junior. This model, with its distinctive double cutaway body, meaty dog-ear P-90 pickup, and well-crafted mahogany construction, represents a prime example of classic American guitar design. Even today, collectors and musicians alike continue to appreciate the Junior for its unique sound and enduring appeal, cementing its place in the annals of guitar history.