Metallica’s Kirk Hammett and Gibson Unveil 1989 Les Paul Custom Signature Model Guitar

Metallica’s renowned guitarist, Kirk Hammett, in collaboration with Gibson, has introduced the 1989 Les Paul Custom signature model guitar. Priced at $8,999, this signature model is the latest addition to Hammett’s ongoing partnership with Gibson, offering a faithful recreation of his original Les Paul Custom from the “And Justice for All” and “Black Album” era, complete with its iconic “blacked-out” Ebony finish.

This signature model meticulously captures the aesthetic of Hammett’s cherished instrument, having undergone aging by Gibson’s skilled luthiers at the Murphy Lab to replicate the authentic wear and feel of the original guitar. The hardware is uniformly black, in line with the artist’s preferences.

Meeting Kirk’s specifications, the guitar features uncovered-Type pickups, accompanied by a Fishman Powerbridge piezo bridge pickup system and a Fishman Powership preamp with volume control. This configuration provides a simulated full-bodied acoustic tone, a distinctive feature that drew Hammett to the instrument when he first acquired it.

Hammett shared his connection to the 1989 Les Paul Custom, stating, “This black 1989 Les Paul Custom is actually the first Les Paul I ever played live on stage and on tour. I got it when we were on the ‘And Justice for All’ tour, specifically for ‘Fade to Black,’ because I really wаnted that big, fаt, creamy Les Paul sound for the intro. I loved how fast the neck was, and after my tech modified a bunch of the hardware, making it ‘none more black,’ it ended up being a great live metal guitar. It’s a very dependable and reliable guitar, and I’ve used it for decades. I hope you all will enjoy it as much as I did!”

Fans attending Metallica’s live performances may witness Hammett using the original 1989 Les Paul Custom on stage. The band is scheduled to embark on the 2024 leg of its “No Repeat Weekend” tour, and tickets are available for purchаse.

The Kirk Hammett 1989 Les Paul Custom is available for $8,999 on Gibson’s website and through authorized retailers. Detailed images of the guitar can be viewed in the slideshow below.