Queen guitarist and rock icon Brian May unveils his own Gibson 12-string acoustic guitar in London this week.
Having always been an admirer of the acoustic guitar, May has previously used the 12-string as a tool for songwriting. Some of his most celebrated works feature this instrument, yet he has often faced challenges finding one that meets his precise specifications.
Gibson collaborated with him, allowing Brian May to steer the design process. For guitar enthusiasts, the new Brian May SJ-200 12-string acoustic features AAA rosewood for the back and sides, an AAA Sitka spruce top, a 2-piece AAA maple neck with a walnut stringer, a rounded profile, and a rosewood fretboard adorned with agoya shell 8-point star inlays. It also includes a planetary-themed pickguard and Fishman Matrix electronics.
Interestingly, the design beneath the pickguard displays the first few planets from the sun, with Mercury symbolically following him wherever he travels.
At the Gibson Garage London, Brian May participated in a Q&A with Absolute Radio host Leona Graham before introducing singer-songwriter Arielle.
The London-based artist showcased a few songs on the 12-string, and later, May returned to the stage for several duets, including "So Sad" and "Love Token."
Onstage, Sir Brian May expressed,
“It’s a dream come true. The moment I held the guitar, I knew it was exactly what I needed. It has a remarkable presence and a wonderfully rich sound. Gibson has done an incredible job; it features the lovely solar system, including Mercury, but what matters most is its massive sound.”
“It employs very traditional, old-school technology, crafted without AI or mechanization. I take great pride in it, and I am very honored to have collaborated with Gibson. I remember the days I admired guitar catalogs with my dad—I wish he were here to witness this incredible collaboration we’ve achieved.”
The event was held at the Gibson Garage London, which celebrated its one-year anniversary in Central London.
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This week in London, legendary rock guitarist Brian May, known for his work with Queen, is introducing his own Gibson 12-string acoustic guitar. May has been an admirer of the instrument for many years.