Slash hints at Exciting Gibson revival of His legendary Kris Derrig ’59 Les Paul
In a recent Instagram post, Slash has sparked intrigue among fans, but a comment from gibson’s CEO, Cesar Gueikian, has provided a clearer picture of what’s brewing.
The post features Slash’s prized Gibson Les Paul, crafted by the renowned luthier Kris Derrig, poised for 3D scanning. Gueikian chimed in with an enthusiastic comment: “Epic! Let’s go…”
This exchange strongly suggests that a reissue of Slash’s iconic guitar is on the horizon, potentially as a Murphy Lab replica that captures every detail.
The Legacy of the Derrig Les Paul
Since acquiring the Derrig Les Paul in 1987, it has been slash’s go-to instrument for recording, prominently featured on Guns N’ Roses’ monumental debut album, Appetite for Destruction, which has achieved 18x platinum status. Tragically, Derrig passed away from cancer that same year, never witnessing the profound impact his creation would have through Slash’s music.
“that derrig ’59 came to me just in time while we were recording Appetite,” Slash recounted in an interview with Guitar World. “We had just wrapped up the basic tracks, and the guitars I had weren’t cutting it. I was in a panic, thinking, ‘What am I going to do?’”
“Our manager at the time, Alan Niven, brought this Les Paul to the studio right before I was set to do my guitar overdubs. It sounded unbelievable, like a divine gift,” he added.
“I took the Derrig on tour throughout 1987 and into 1988,” Slash continued. “In that brief time,I really put that guitar through its paces!”
The Anticipation of a Murphy Lab Replica
The idea of a Murphy Lab recreation,which would replicate every scratch and imperfection,is thrilling for fans. however,some speculate that the price could soar to around $20,000,a significant leap from the estimated $2,000 Slash paid for it in ’87.
Gibson has previously released Derrig Les Paul reissues, including a Custom Shop AFD model in 2016, but none have meticulously mirrored the unique characteristics of Slash’s personal guitar.
Interestingly,during the time Derrig was crafting guitars,Gibson had yet to embrace the reissue trend,and Slash’s use of the Derrig Les Paul played a pivotal role in shifting the industry’s direction.
A Shift from Touring to studio
After those early tours, where the guitar endured significant wear, Slash retired it from live performances, reserving it for studio work. He subsequently developed a partnership with Gibson, transitioning to using authentic Les Pauls in live settings.
“I never had the chance to meet kris,” Slash shared with Gibson TV last year. “He passed away before I got the guitar. though, I own three of his creations, and they are exceptionally crafted, with precise details of a ’59 Gibson documented down to the millimeter.”
“He was meticulous about sourcing original PAF [humbuckers] and ensuring they were installed correctly. His attention to detail was remarkable,” he added.
What Lies Ahead?
While it remains unclear whether this project is in its infancy or nearing completion, Gibson did not mention it during their discussions about future plans for 2026 at NAMM. Patience might potentially be essential, but considering it has been a decade as the last reissue and that the original was built in 1986, the timing seems ripe for an anniversary model.
Could one of rock history’s moast celebrated “knockoff” guitars finally receive the reissue it rightfully deserves? Let’s keep our fingers crossed!
