History & Significance
The SG Special first appeared in the Gibson catalog in 1961 with the introduction of the SG body shape that replaced the Les Paul™. The Les Paul Special was swapped for the SG Special, which retained the same dual Soapbar P-90 pickup configuration and wraparound bridge. This bare-bones approach was designed for intermediate players as it had all the functionality of the SG Standard, with the biggest difference being equipped with P-90 pickups instead of humbucker™ pickups. Over the years, professional-level guitarists adopted the instrument due to its simplicity and unique voice, which P-90 pickups and a slab mahogany body evoke. A bound rosewood fretboard with dot inlays and an inlaid block Gibson headstock logo are the two other distinctions that separate the SG Special from the SG Junior. White button tuners maintain the understated look of the guitar while giving solid tuning stability.
Artists & Notable Guitars
Santana
https://youtu.be/JaaT_HRb4GU?si=7MWUMv-Le6SH6T0Q
Reissues & Replicas
- 1963 SG Special, Light Aged, TV Pelham Blue Sparkle | Gibson MSRP $6399
- 1963 SG Special Reissue, Cherry Red | Gibson; MSRP $3599
- SG Special, Vintage Cherry | Gibson MSRP $1599
- SG Special P-90, Faded Pelham Blue | Epiphone MSRP $499
Mach Five Guitar
The M5 Guitar is a 2021 Epiphone Inspired by Gibson SG Special P90 “Smallguard” Pelham Blue SN 20051520185
Image Descriptions
Associated Artists & Music
Reference
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