The Gibson Les Paul Junior, launched in 1954, was designed as an affordable, entry-level electric guitar. Initially available in a single-cutaway style, a double-cutaway version followed in 1958. It was simplified compared to the standard Les Paul, featuring no binding or carved top, just one P-90 “dog-ear” pickup, and a basic control layout with one volume and one tone knob.
In 1955, Gibson introduced the Les Paul TV model, identical to the Junior but with a distinctive limed mahogany finish, which evolved into the well-known “TV yellow.” The Junior gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s for its straightforward design and unique tone, especially when used with overdriven amplifiers.
