In a move that has stunned the vintage guitar community, Sum 41 frontman Deryck Whibley has revealed himself as the new owner of “Lazarus,” the iconic 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard formerly owned by blues-rock titan Joe Bonamassa.
The revelation came during the debut episode of Whibley’s new YouTube series, Deryck’s Guitar Collection, where the pop-punk veteran showcased the “holy grail” instrument that has survived a near-death experience and a bizarre history of DIY modifications.
The Resurrection of Lazarus: From “Red” to Rare
The guitar earned its biblical nickname after Bonamassa discovered it in 2019. At the time, the 1959 ‘Burst had been hidden under a questionable Cherry Red refinish, a mod that would usually decimate the value of a vintage Gibson.
However, upon stripping the paint, Bonamassa uncovered a stunning figured maple top, proving the guitar was indeed a “holy grail” ‘Burst. The instrument became so central to Bonamassa’s rig that it inspired a highly successful Epiphone Joe Bonamassa “Lazarus” 1959 Les Paul Standard signature model in 2021.
“I don’t even know where to begin with this guitar,” Whibley admitted in his video. “This particular ’Burst has a name and a history all unto itself.”
A Change of Heart for the Sum 41 Legend
The acquisition comes at a pivotal moment for Whibley. Following Sum 41’s final show in January 2025, the singer-guitarist originally intended to step back from the industry and cease all gear purchases.
Those plans changed when a call from Black Magic Guitars presented an opportunity he couldn’t ignore.
Why Whibley Chose Lazarus:
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The Feel: “Lazarus sticks out—it just felt great in my hands,” Whibley noted.
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The Sound: Whibley claims that no matter the style, the guitar sounds “incredible.”
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The Connection: After testing the guitar, Whibley confessed it began “showing up in my dreams,” leading him to finalize the purchase.
Is Joe Bonamassa Downsizing His Collection?
The sale of such a high-profile instrument has sparked speculation among gear nerds. Bonamassa is famously protective of his “Nerdville” museum of vintage gear, though he has recently hinted at winding down the sheer scale of his massive collection.
While Bonamassa has yet to comment on why he parted with one of his most storied stage guitars, the torch has officially been passed. Whibley, who has previously played Steve Jones’ (Sex Pistols) Les Paul and owns an Iggy Pop Telecaster, continues to cement his status as one of the most serious collectors in the rock world.
Watch the Reveal
You can see the guitar in action on the first episode of Deryck’s Guitar Collection on YouTube, titled: “I am this guitar, this guitar is me. I am Lazarus!”
#Deryck Whibley #Sum 41 #Joe Bonamassa #Lazarus #1959 Les Paul
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