Metallica’s Kirk Hammett Partners With Gibson To Recreate ‘Greeny’ 1959 Les Paul Standard

Metallica‘s Kirk Hammett has partnered with Gibson Guitars to recreate “Greeny,” the legendary 1959 Les Paul Standard Burst guitar.

“I am very honored and grateful for this opportunity with Gibson,” said Hammett. “To be able to share some of that mojo which ‘Greeny’ has means a lot to me. It’s exciting to know that anyone can experience some of that ‘Greeny’ magic. I truly think these models are just as inspiring as the original and hope you do too!”

Recalling the moment he first came across the “Greeny,” Hammett said, “I was in a record store in Berkeley called Rather Ripped Records, and Gary Moore’s first solo album, now that I think about it, I remember flipping the album cover and there was a live shot of Thin Lizzy onstage, outdoor festival during the day and there’s a picture of Gary Moore his guitar bent all the way back. I remember looking at that thinking, ‘What an amazing live shot. What a cool Les Paul. I wish someday I’d have a Les Paul that cool.’”

“Kirk has been inspiring musicians for decades, starting with his 1979 Gibson Flying V, and over the years expanding his collection across many Gibson guitars,” remarked Gibson brand president Cesar Gueikian. “Over the last 10 years since he became the custodian of Greeny, he has incorporated the Greeny sound into everything he does, making it a staple of his Metallica sound on records and on stages around the world.”

The Gibson Kirk Hammett “Greeny” Les Paul Standard comes with an Original Series hardshell case. The version, due out on April 11th, gives players around the world the opportunity to experience some of the magic of “Greeny” for themselves.

(Photo: Ross Halfin)