Keith Richards Teams Up with Gibson Custom Shop for Signature ES-355 Replica: Limited-Edition Collector's Edition Guitars Available Now
Keith Richards, the iconic guitarist of The Rolling Stones, has teamed up with the Gibson Custom Shop to create a special collector's edition replica of his famous black 1960 Gibson ES-355 electric guitar. This limited-edition signature instrument comes in two signed versions, each with a hefty price tag. The first version, limited to 50 copies, features Richards' signature in two places and is priced at $29,999. The second version, with Keith's signature only on the f-hole label, costs $19,999. Both versions are available for purchase on Gibson.com, at Gibson Garage locations in Nashville and London, and through authorized Gibson dealers.
In a promotional video on Gibson's YouTube channel, Keith Richards discussed his signature guitar with producer-musician Andrew Watt. Richards mentioned that Chuck Berry, one of his heroes, played a red ES-355, while the black ES-355 is closely associated with him. He first played an ES-355 in 1969 and has used his signature 1960 black ES-355 on every Rolling Stones tour since 1997. Richards expressed his comfort and preference for Gibson guitars, emphasizing their versatility and expressive capabilities.
Richards also talked about his modified Fender Telecaster and the ES-355 being his go-to standard-tuning six-string guitar. He highlighted the minor differences between the signature model and his original ES-355, noting that the replica was made slightly lighter. The guitars were meticulously crafted in the Gibson Custom Shop in Nashville using advanced technology and period-correct materials to replicate every detail of Richards' original instrument.
Each guitar will be delivered in a Gibson Protector series case with a certificate of authenticity and a replica of the guitar strap Richards uses. Keith expressed his gratitude and honor for having a signature Gibson model named after him, emphasizing the significance of the collaboration. He also discussed his unique guitar playing style, including the "guitar weave" technique he developed and showcased with The Rolling Stones' other guitar players.
In conclusion, Keith Richards shared his enduring love for the guitar and the joy it brings him. He humorously mentioned that there's nowhere else to go but back to the guitar, as it remains a constant source of inspiration and enjoyment in his life. The collaboration with Gibson on the signature ES-355 replica is a testament to Richards' legendary status in the world of rock music.