Gibson Grants James Bond a Licence to Thrill
In case you missed it in 1999, CBn brings you a blast from the past…
Gibson Musical Interments (November 1, 1999) — At the request of David Arnold, composer of the score for the new James Bond film The World Is Not Enough, Gibson’s Custom, Art & Historic Division designed and built an official 007 Les Paul guitar.
007 Gibson Les Paul Guitar, front
Gibson Les Paul Guitar, back
The Les Paul guitar features the famous opening gun-barrel sequence printed on it and was signed by John Barry and David Arnold and other people connected to the Bond movies. The back of the guitar is emblazoned with the “flaming lady” seen in the teaser posters for The World Is Not Enough.
Arnold presented the guitar to the legendary James Bond composer, John Barry. Barry is world- renowned as a composer, having five Academy Awards and four Grammies to his name. During his celebrated career, spanning more than three decades, he has written over 60 soundtrack scores, including ten Bond movies.
John Barry was honored at London’s Music Industry Trusts’ dinner last month. During the ceremony, David Arnold performed one of Barry’s classic Bond themes, “We have all the time in the World” on the 007 Les Paul. He then gave the guitar to John Barry, who in turn graciously donated it to be auctioned for the Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy and the Brit Trust.
David Arnold talking about the guitar (more photos)
Roger Moore was on hand at the event and said, “Any actor can only have his performance enhanced by your music behind him. I remember the music for our theme in the Persuaders and all the Bonds – they were the best.“
The Music Industry Trusts’ Dinner is in its eighth year. It honors people who have made a major contribution to the UK music industry.
– The Original Gibson Press Release from 1999.
