What would the iconic dance scene in Back to the Future be without Marty McFly’s Gibson ES-345, and above all, without Johnny B. Goode? Undoubtedly, it would be far less rock’n’roll!

Chuck Berry is an absolute reference, a rock’n’roll master who has stood the test of time, surely securing his place as the undisputed pioneer. His playful, choreographed style, inimitable riffs, and flashes of genius made him an obvious legend. At Matt’s Guitar Shop, we have had the opportunity to pay tribute to him several times.

First, with the remarkable relic that was Terry Gibson’s 1964 black Gibson Firebird. Beneath its captivating black patina, this guitar carried a wonderful piece of rock history. In addition to being played by an English musician alongside legends like Gene Vincent and Bo Diddley, it was also played on stage by Chuck Berry!
This particularly mojoed guitar was used by the rock master on the vast Wembley stage in London during the London Rock and Roll Show in 1972, where Chuck Berry took it to close his performance. A photo from that moment was even used as the cover for a double album! Now sold, this guitar allowed us at the time to celebrate Chuck Berry’s unique talent.

And then, how could we not mention the famous Back to the Future 1955 ES-345?
This tribute series launched by Gibson celebrates Marty McFly’s iconic red guitar from the 1955 dance, legendary in many ways. Designed to create a truly rock’n’roll scene ahead of its time, this scene naturally has Marty playing a Chuck Berry hit — and what better than Johnny B. Goode! This exceptional series, accompanied by amazing movie goodies, is certainly more tied to Back to the Future than to Chuck Berry… but their destinies are closely linked!