Queen Icon Sir Brian May Unveils Gibson SJ-200 12-String Guitar at Gibson Garage London

Gibson Launches Brian May SJ-200 12-String Acoustic Guitar

Gibson recently hosted a special event to launch the new Brian May SJ-200 12-String acoustic guitar, marking May’s first collaboration with the iconic brand. The event kicked off Gibson Garage Fest, celebrating the one-year anniversary of the Gibson Garage London. This limited-edition guitar is available at the Gibson Garage London, Gibson Garage Nashville, and online at www.gibson.com

Sir Brian May’s Surprise Performance

Sir Brian May surprised guests with a performance on the 12-string guitar, playing Queen’s “Love Of My Life” and a cover of “So Sad (to Watch Good Love Go Bad)” by The Everly Brothers. He also performed “Love Token” from his 1992 album, Back to the Light. Singer-songwriter Arielle joined May for a duet on “So Sad” and “Love Token”. The event included an interview with May, moderated by Absolute Radio host Leona Graham, where he discussed the creation of the guitar and his musical journey.

Excitement for the New Guitar

May expressed his excitement about the guitar, highlighting its traditional craftsmanship and exceptional sound. He also praised the Gibson Garage London for creating an inclusive space where guitar enthusiasts can explore and connect with the world of guitars.

Special Guests in Attendance

Special guests at the event included actor Jason Momoa, former Whitesnake bassist Neil Murray, and Dave ‘Bucket’ Colwell from Bad Company.

Honoring Brian May’s Contributions

The Brian May SJ-200 12-String from Gibson Custom honors Sir Brian May’s contributions to rock music and his passion for astronomy. After decades of fame with his distinctive sound, May completed his doctorate in astrophysics in 2007.

Guitar Features

This rare guitar features AAA rosewood back and sides, an AAA Sitka spruce top with Vintage Sunburst finish, and a 2-piece AAA maple neck with a Rounded profile. It boasts a rosewood fretboard with agoya shell 8-point star inlays and a headstock adorned with an agoya shell star and the Gibson logo in mother-of-pearl, along with gold Grover® Mini Rotomatic® tuning machines.

Unique Design and Electronics

The solid rosewood Moustache bridge with 60s-style agoya inlays and the planetary-themed pickguard designed by May reinforce the astronomy motif. The strings are mounted in reverse order, creating a unique sound distinct from other Gibson 12-string models. Fishman® Matrix® electronics ensure it’s stage and studio-ready from the moment it’s out of the included hardshell case.

Limited Edition Craftsmanship

Limited to just 100 handcrafted units by Gibson Custom’s expert luthiers in Bozeman, Montana, this instrument is fitting for a guitarist who has not only become a star but continues to study them.

Explore the Gibson Garage London

At the Gibson Garage London, music enthusiasts can explore and play over 300 electric and acoustic guitars. The venue boasts a dedicated acoustic guitar room with one of the UK’s largest displays of Gibson Acoustic guitars, along with sections for Epiphone electric, acoustic, and bass guitars, and the biggest display of Kramer guitars in the UK. Visitors can enjoy trying out Gibson, Epiphone, Kramer, MESA/Boogie, Gibson Amplifiers, Maestro pedals, and browsing a wide range of exclusive Gibson apparel, gifts, lifestyle items, gear, and accessories.