This volume celebrates the golden anniversary of the solidbody guitar endorsed in 1952 by guitarist Les Paul. It explores the various models developed in each decade, revealing individual specifications and the unique qualities that led Paul to say, "You can do anything with this instrument." Illustrated with 200-plus photographs of instruments and famous players as well as Gibson catalogs, ads, and other memorabilia, it also highlights the Signature Les Paul models made for legendary performers and provides historical context to the guitar's evolution. Also included is a reference section of specifications, dating methods, and a model chronology from 1952-2002. The author of many books on the guitar, Bacon served as an advisor to a BBC documentary titled Guitar Legends . Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)