Based on the very popular L-1 model launched in 1926, the Gibson L1 Robert Johnson reproduces the look, feel and most importantly the sound of a guitar used by the legendary blues guitarist.

The Gibson L1 was introduced in 1902 and built as an arched top, round soundhole model until 1925. In 1926, it was re-introduced as a flat top,  along with the very similar L-0 Mahogany top model. The L-1 was built until 1937, while the L-0 was dropped in 1933 and then re-introduced in 1937 and built until 1942 (but with a Spruce top). Both models were replaced by the J-45.

Here we’re looking at a Gibson L1 Robert Johnson sunburst guitar, dated to January 11 2005 at the Gibson Acoustics shop in Bozeman, Montana under supervision of master luthier Ren Ferguson. Built like an early 1930’s L-1, this guitar features a scallop-braced Sitka Spruce top, with Mahogany for the sides, back, body blocks and neck. The 12-fret fingerboard and bridge are Ebony on this example. On the original models, those two parts would have been Brazilian Rosewood, which is off the list of currently available materials. The headstock features a Mother of Pearl ‘The Gibson’ script logo, and ‘Robert Johnson’ is inlaid in Mother of Pearl between the last two frets. For hardware, original Kluson style strip tuners with creme plastic buttons are installed. There is no pickup installed. The nitrocellulose lacquer sunburst finish is in good condition and is naturally sinking with time.

This Gibson Robert Johnson L-1 is in very good, clean condition. It sounds good , very authentic to music of the period and later, and plays well – enough that it’s rather distracting to have it in my lap while writing this.

The original Made in Canada by TKL, Gibson hard shell case is included.

More About Robert Johnson

Robert Johnson was born May 11 1911 in Hazelhurst, Mississippi, and died on August 16 1938 in Greenwood, Mississippi. A gifted musician and songwriter, his recorded output is only 29 songs (and 13 alternates). If you’re interested in learning his music, the book “Robert Johnson – The New Transcriptions” is an excellent reference.

This seemingly small output is dwarfed by his influence, however. Many later blues artists, and especially British blues influenced artists like Keith Richards and Eric Clapton, drew heavily from this material and Johnson’s playing style and expression.

What The Builder States About the Gibson L1 Robert Johnson

“Gibson Acoustics Robert Johnson L-1 guitar captures the haunting, timeless sound of the man whose legacy and contributions to the blues are unmatched. Though he died tragically in 1938 at the age of 27, Johnsons historic blues recordings have inspired countless generations of blues artists and guitarists. The Robert Johnson L-1 guitar is tribute to his instrument of choice. It features Gibson’s traditional L-1 body design, exactly as it was on the first L-1 in 1926.”

Gibson L1 Robert Johnson Specifications: