For over 130 years, Gibson the iconic and leading instrument brand, has shaped sound across generations and genres of music, becoming one of the most relevant, played, and loved guitar brands around the world.
In celebration of Gibson Garage Fest – a series of events celebrating the one year anniversary of the Gibson Garage London (61-62 Eastcastle St, London, UK) – Gibson has partnered with the world-renowned musician, songwriter and guitarist, Johnny Marr to release only 20 Gibson ’84 Les Paul Standard with Bigsby, Signed by Johnny Marr guitars. Each of the 20 Gibson ‘84 Les Paul Standard guitars will be available exclusively at the Gibson Garage London starting at 11am on Friday, 21st February, until they are sold out. All profits from the sale of the Gibson Johnny Marr guitars will be donated by Johnny Marr and Gibson to support the charity Teenage Cancer Trust.
Johnny Marr @ Gibson Garage London
The Gibson ’84 Les Paul Standard with Bigsby, Signed by Johnny Marr guitars are inspired by Johnny Marr’s Cherry Red Gibson Les Paul Standard with Bigsby from 1984, first played by Johnny Marr during the recording of The Smiths’ iconic second album, Meat Is Murder. The model became Johnny’s go-to guitar and was used extensively in both live performances and recording sessions with The Smiths, as well as during his time as a member of The The, The Pretenders, The Cribs, as well as his work with Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds. Each of these 20 Gibson ’84 Les Paul Standard with Bigsby guitars have been created through Gibson’s Made-to-Measure program, and are designed to match up with his original as closely as possible, made from mahogany and in a vibrant Cherry Red finish, each guitar is hand-signed by Johnny Marr.
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The 20 exclusive Gibson’84 Les Paul Standard with Bigsby, Signed by Johnny Marr guitars are available for the public to buy immediately upon the opening of the Gibson Garage London at 11am Friday 21st February, until stocks last.
Marr says: “These guitars are a faithful reproduction of my beloved 1984 Gibson Les Paul, bought in Manchester back in the day. It’s the guitar I’ve kept and used since that time on loads of different records, so I was beyond delighted to see it recreated in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust. It’s an amazing organisation that I’ve had an association with for about ten years. It’s a privilege to be involved in this good cause and I’m very glad to be affiliated with it, especially when it involves making a fantastic Les Paul.”
Alongside the 20 hand-signed Johnny Marr guitars, an exclusive collaborative range of Teenage Cancer Trust and Gibson merchandise will also be available. Limited edition t-shirts, hoodies and caps, featuring a newly created design by Jamie Hewlett, to celebrate the 25th year of Teenage Cancer Trust at the Royal Albert Hall, and featuring Johnny Marr’s ‘84 Gibson Les Paul Standard with Bigsby, will be available at the Gibson Garage London, Gibson.com, and shop.teenagecancertrust.org – with proceeds from each item sold donated directly to Teenage Cancer Trust.
“The influence of Johnny Marr can be seen and heard across generations of musicians,” says Jamie Johnson, Head of Music and Entertainment at Teenage Cancer Trust. “Not only is he an incredible writer and player, but he has a huge depth of knowledge in his craft. Combined with Gibson’s generosity and mastery we are thrilled to be benefitting from this unique opportunity. The support we receive from Johnny and Gibson can be seen across the UK where we are able to make very real and meaningful differences to young people with cancer. Thank you to Johnny and the team at Gibson for their kindness and generosity.”
Johnny Marr @ Gibson Garage London
“To correspond with the Gibson Garage London’s one year anniversary, it’s a great honour to continue our partnership with the Teenage Cancer Trust for another year, and for 2025 we have the legend that is Johnny Marr adding his support,” adds Lee Bartram, Head of Commercial, Marketing and Cultural Influence – EMEA. “These guitars Johnny has signed take inspiration from his 1984 Gibson Les Paul Standard with Bigsby which has been featured on many British classic records over the years, and are a fitting tribute to the amazing work the TCT continue to do. Gibson is also thrilled to bring a range of apparel with the TCT to the Gibson Garage London expanding its longtime partnership with the distinguished charity.”
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