From his humble beginnings to influencing iconic guitar players, Robert Johnson is now a name that most, if not all guitarists have heard of. His guitar of choice for his brand of delta blues was a 1926 Gibson L-1, a parlor shape guitar which has been immortalized by his influential recordings and iconic photos.
The L-1 had an archtop body when it was originally launched in 1902, but was turned into a flat top acoustic with a smaller body in 1926. This parlor style body became the guitar of choice for many guitarists because of its midrange focused sound, which works great for blues and slide guitar playing. Gibson honoured Johnson’s legacy with a signature version that makes the old design available for today’s players.
The Gibson Robert Johnson L-1 follows after the original in terms of look and tone. It has a sunburst finished solid Sitka Spruce top supported by x-bracing and Mahogany back and sides, with the L-1’s distinctive shape that is smaller than regular dreadnought and concert guitars. This particular combination gives the guitar the characteristic boxy “growl” expected of a blues box, while having a more reliable and durable structure, thanks to modern building and production technology.
The mahogany neck features a modified V profile that makes playing feel familiar and comfortable. It has a scale length of 25″ and a nut width of 1.75″, following the specs of original L-1s from the late 1920s. The headstock has the historic mother of pearl “The Gibson” logo.
This 2005 model is in mint condition and comes complete with its original (and substantial) Gibson hard case.
Shipping within mainland UK using fully insured 24-hour courier service @ £35.00.
Shipping to US/Canada, using UPS, is £185.00. Shipping to EU is £65.00
Customers outside of UK/EU/US/Canada should contact Vintage Rare & Retro Guitars for a shipping quotation. Free pick-up is always available at our Gullane shop.
