Paul’s guitar was embraced by a number of British rock giants, and Clapton is one of the instrument’s most famous players. He inspired generations to pick up a Les Paul-branded ax. (Ethan Miller / Getty Images)
The Les Paul is the signature guitar of the former Guns N’ Roses member, who has praised its lack of limitations -- using it to grace a ballad with a flamboyant solo, or launch a ferocious blues-meets-metal attack. (AFP/Getty Images)
As Green Day’s sound has become more layered, Armstrong has done it with a Les Paul. He was drawn to its untainted tone, saying it has a “good rock ‘n’ roll ‘50s sound to it, but you can crank it with lots of distortion.” (Jason Kempin / Getty Images)
