Gibson Garage Fest Celebrates One-Year Anniversary with Exclusive Johnny Marr Guitar Release
In celebration of Gibson Garage Fest—a series of events marking the one-year anniversary of the Gibson Garage London (61-62 Eastcastle St, London, UK)—Gibson is thrilled to announce a special collaboration with world-renowned musician, songwriter, and guitarist Johnny Marr. Together, they are releasing 20 exclusive, hand-signed Gibson ’84 Les Paul Standard with Bigsby, Signed by Johnny Marr.
These limited-edition guitars will be available exclusively at the Gibson Garage London starting at 11am on Friday, February 21, until they sell out. All proceeds from the sale of the Gibson ’84 Les Paul Standard with Bigsby, Signed by Johnny Marr guitars will be donated to the charity Teenage Cancer Trust, supported by both Johnny Marr and Gibson.
A Tribute to Johnny Marr’s Iconic Guitar
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, which he first played during the recording of The Smiths’ iconic second album, Meat is Murder. This model became Johnny’s go-to guitar, used extensively in live performances and recording sessions with The Smiths, as well as during his time with The The, The Pretenders, The Cribs, and Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds.
Each of these 20 guitars has been meticulously crafted through Gibson’s Made-to-Measure program to closely match Johnny’s original instrument. Made from mahogany with a vibrant Cherry Red finish, each guitar is hand-signed by Johnny Marr.
Get Your Hands on a Piece of Music History
The 20 exclusive Gibson ’84 Les Paul Standard with Bigsby, Signed by Johnny Marr guitars will be available for purchase by the public as soon as the Gibson Garage London opens at 11am on Friday, February 21, until stocks last.
Johnny Marr’s Statement
“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 organization that I’ve been associated 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.” –Johnny Marr
Exclusive Collaboration: Teenage Cancer Trust and Gibson Merchandise
In addition to the 20 hand-signed Gibson ’84 Les Paul Standard with Bigsby, Signed by Johnny Marr guitars, a unique range of collaborative merchandise from Teenage Cancer Trust and Gibson will be available. Limited edition t-shirts, hoodies, and caps, designed by Jamie Hewlett to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Teenage Cancer Trust at the Royal Albert Hall, and featuring Johnny Marr’s ‘84 Gibson Les Paul Standard with Bigsby, will be on sale at the Gibson Garage London, Gibson.com, and shop.teenagecancertrust.org. All proceeds from these items will be donated directly to the Teenage Cancer Trust.
Johnny Marr’s Influence and Generosity
“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 benefit from this unique opportunity. The support we receive from Johnny and Gibson makes a very real and meaningful difference to young people with cancer across the UK. Thank you to Johnny and the team at Gibson for their kindness and generosity.”
Continuing a Proud Partnership
“To celebrate the one-year anniversary of the Gibson Garage London, it’s a great honor to continue our partnership with the Teenage Cancer Trust for another year, and for 2025, we have the legendary Johnny Marr adding his support,” adds Lee Bartram, Head of Commercial, Marketing, and Cultural Influence – EMEA. “These guitars Johnny has signed are inspired by his 1984 Gibson Les Paul Standard with Bigsby, featured on many classic British records over the years. They are a fitting tribute to the amazing work the TCT continues to do. Gibson is also thrilled to introduce a range of apparel with the TCT at the Gibson Garage London, expanding our long-standing partnership with this distinguished charity.”
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