Joe Bonamassa’s latest Epiphone collaboration isn’t just about the new 1955 Les Paul model announced today. On tour, he has been playing a Murphy Lab-aged recreation of his 1958 Amos Flying V.
Murphy Lab Aged Amos Flying V
In the video, he also unveiled a Murphy Lab-aged recreation of his iconic 1958 Amos Flying V. This replica, which took 18 months to create, has been Joe’s go-to guitar on tour for the past year and a half.
‘It’s every bit as good as an original,’ Joe says, ‘without the risk of bringing a literal unicorn out on the road.'”
A Collector’s Dream
One of the crown jewels in Joe Bonamassa’s impressive guitar collection is “Amos,” a 1958 Gibson Flying V™. This iconic instrument has a storied history, tracing its roots to Arthur’s Music in Indianapolis, Indiana. Named after the store’s owner, Amos Arthur, the guitar was shipped to the shop on May 29, 1958.
History
After passing through the hands of Pete Mitchell, a member of Ernest Tubb’s band, and renowned guitar dealer Norm Harris, Amos found its way to Bonamassa in the mid-2000s. This legendary Flying V has been a constant companion for the blues rock virtuoso, inspiring his music on stage and in the studio. Its unique character and history have also made it a coveted collectable.
3D Scanned
To celebrate Amos’s legacy, Gibson Custom Shop has created a limited-edition replica. Utilizing cutting-edge 3D scanning technology and the Murphy Lab ageing process expertise, these instruments are meticulously crafted to capture the exact wear, tone, and feel of the original. Every detail has been painstakingly replicated, from the Brazilian rosewood fretboard to the subtle playing marks.
Only 50 of these exceptional Flying Vs will be produced, making them highly sought-after by collectors and musicians alike. This limited-edition run is a testament to Amos’s enduring appeal and the craftsmanship of the Gibson Custom Shop.
MSRP – $19,999
Korina
Based on the Korina-bodied Flying V guitar, one of the rarer models from Gibson’s back catalog of vintage guitars, this could be a costly guitar indeed.
Epiphone released a limited edition version in 2017, which sold well. It now sells on the used market for much more than it initially retailed for.
Arthur’s Music
Joe Bonamassa and Epiphone collaborated on these as a tribute to his beloved 1958 Amos Flying V. This rare guitar, purchased initially from Norm’s Rare Guitars, has a special connection to Arthur’s Music store in Indianapolis. With its black pickguard and white jack plate, it’s one of only a handful of these models ever made.
Epiphone’s faithful recreation tried to capture the unique sound and feel of the original. Key features designed by Joe include a raised logo, a replica truss rod cover, and a comfortable neck profile. Joe also explains his preference for Flying V controls over Explorer controls, especially the pickup switches.
Now, the Murphy Lab is working on a new version, and we may soon see an official announcement.
