How Charlie Starr restored this Les Paul Junior to its original glory

Charlie Starr shows Mark Agnesi one of his oldest Les Paul Junior guitars, which is part of a pair.

▶ Shop Gibson Les Paul Junior guitars here: https://bit.ly/4ulKPnk
▶ Watch the full episode of The Collection with Charlie Starr HERE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3sCNsuu9uwU

In this clip from the episode of The Collection featuring Blackberry Smoke frontman Charlie Starr, the iconic singer and guitarist gives us a look at one of his coolest vintage guitars with a cooler story–a clean, heavy, and resonant 1957 Les Paul™ Junior, which came as part of a pair.

Charlie walks Mark Agnesi through the story behind acquiring not one, but two Juniors at once—on the recommendation of none other than Joe Bonamassa: “two pairs and a spare.” While this one stood out for its weight and distinctive perimeter burst, it’s the electronics that made it different.

After discovering a too-bright tone between 8 and 10 on the volume knob, Charlie chased down an original ’57 wiring harness from a lap steel. Once installed, the guitar came to life, and the sound was “instantly right.” Charlie and Mark discuss how these minimal components—pickup, pots, caps—each make a significant tonal difference, especially on a Junior where every single element counts.

He also shares a hilarious story of a special onstage moment when his friend, guitarist Richard Fortus, accidentally left his “mark” on this otherwise pristine guitar at a gig in St. Louis.

This is a must-watch for vintage gear fans and Les Paul Junior lovers alike. Just try to avert your eyes when you see that scratch.

???? Related Videos To Watch Next:

▶ Watch Charlie Starr talk about why he loves P-90 pickups: https://youtu.be/7JSvX--ICNQ?si=MIsiijUPo7CPPhXW
▶ Watch Charlie Starr and other pro guitarists give their best guitar advice: https://youtu.be/8KE0x_4G2dE?si=Sm7qPXXsFFaDiF8j
▶ Watch Charlie Starr introduce his Gibson Les Paul Junior: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhgv80seyH8

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