Robert Johnson's Relationship with Jeff Beck's Oxblood Les Paul
In June 1972, Robert Johnson acquired a 1953 Les Paul Gold Top guitar from a local music teacher. This guitar eventually became famously known as Jeff Beck's Oxblood Les Paul, an instrument that holds a significant place in rock history.
The Modification Journey
After buying the Les Paul, Johnson sought out the expertise of John Evans, the former keyboardist for the Boxtops, to modify the pickups and bridge. Subsequently, Tom Keckler spray-painted the guitar at Strings & Things Music Store, using auto-paint to create a color that matched Johnson’s iconic 1960 Oxblood shoes. Ironically, Johnson wasn’t fond of the new look and decided to put the guitar up for consignment—a decision that would lead to memorable moments in music history.
The Fateful Encounter
Fast forward to November 7, 1972, when Johnson traveled to Little Rock to support his friend Billy Gibbons, who was opening for Beck, Bogart & Appice. Johnson had previously sold Beck a 1967 Fender guitar and had collaborated with him on a studio session in New York City, which laid the groundwork for their friendship.
During the concert, Beck inquired about available guitars for sale. Johnson mentioned he had a total of seventeen guitars, including the Oxblood Les Paul at Strings & Things. The next day, eager to see the guitar, Beck visited the store with a friend and loved what he saw. His manager promptly bought the iconic Oxblood Les Paul, setting the stage for its storied legacy.
The Legendary Recording Session
On January 31, 1975, a remarkable coincidence led Johnson and Beck to a recording session with The Rolling Stones in Holland. Unbeknownst to each other, they both received invitations—Johnson from Mick Jagger and Beck from Keith Richards. During the session, Beck used the Oxblood Les Paul, leading to a collaboration that both musicians would treasure forever. They played alongside each other for two full days, creating tracks that would age like fine wine.
Impact on the Music Community
From 1970 to 1976, Johnson's reputation as a guitar dealer grew, culminating in sales to British and American rock luminaries including Marc Bolan, Andy Powell, and Ted Turner from Wishbone Ash, along with over a hundred guitars sold to Guitar Village and Top Gear in London. His connections and expertise in the music scene positioned him as a pivotal figure during this golden era of rock.
Current Projects and Future Plans
Today, Johnson remains actively involved in music production, currently working on the unreleased 1971 Albert King Stax album with Billy Gibbons, featuring the renowned Muscle Shoals Swampers. Alongside this, he is remixing a live 1973 recording from Lynyrd Skynyrd, which he engineered in Memphis. Both of these exciting projects are slated for release through Regent Sound Records in the summer of 2025. Johnson is also collaborating with notable artists such as Ann Wilson and Tanya Tucker, continuing his legacy in the music industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Oxblood Les Paul unique?
The Oxblood Les Paul stands out due to its unique history with legendary artists, particularly Jeff Beck, and its striking color which has become iconic in the rock genre.
How did Robert Johnson acquire the Oxblood Les Paul?
Robert Johnson originally purchased a 1953 Les Paul Gold Top and modified it, leading to its eventual sale to Jeff Beck, who cherished it as his primary guitar for many years.
What current projects is Robert Johnson working on?
Johnson is working on the unreleased 1971 Albert King Stax album and a remix of a live 1973 Lynyrd Skynyrd recording, both set for release by Regent Sound Records.
Who else has Johnson collaborated with in the past?
Throughout his career, Johnson has sold guitars to numerous rock legends and collaborated with artists like Billy Gibbons, Ann Wilson, and Tanya Tucker.
What is the significance of the January 31, 1975 session?
That session marked a memorable collaboration between Robert Johnson and Jeff Beck during a Rolling Stones recording, solidifying their musical bond and the Oxblood Les Paul's legendary status.
