Some Les Pauls have defined albums. Others have defined tours.
And then there are those that become true symbols of an era and a musical genre. This 1960 Gibson Les Paul, known as the “Bigger Bang Burst,” clearly belongs in that category. We’re introducing it to you (and plugging it in!) on video.
The Gibson Les Paul Bigger Bang Burst, a Legendary Burst
This guitar is first and foremost part of the legend of the Bursts, the Les Pauls built by Gibson between 1958 and 1960 that remain among the most legendary electric guitars ever made. This particular instrument was built in 1960 and is one of the fewer than 1,600 guitars that left the factory that year. But it also holds an important place in music history.
It is closely associated with the Rolling Stones and their metronome, Keith Richards. The “Bigger Bang Burst” embodies the spirit of the rock ’n’ roll tradition: a Les Paul built for rock, designed for the stage, with a truly commanding sonic presence.
A 1960 Les Paul Connected to Rock’s Greatest Stories
Beyond its association with Keith Richards and that iconic tour, this Les Paul is also part of a broader story, shaped by expert hands and passionate musicians. It also belonged to Gary Richrath, guitarist for REO Speedwagon, renowned for his melodic playing and his distinctive arena rock riffing, making it a key guitar throughout his career. This adds another layer to its identity: a guitar that has passed through different worlds of rock, always driven by the stage, the sound, and sheer effectiveness.
This guitar plays. It sings. It lives. We plugged it in… and filmed it. We won’t say any more—head over and see for yourself! Turn up the volume. And discover what this Les Paul really has under the hood.
