By Allison Watkinson
TLL Reporter
Gibson and Gibson Gives have launched a licensed guitar line for the Ukraine relief effort as part of Julien’s Icons & Idols: Rock ‘N’ Roll live auction.
All of the funds from the auction of Gibson’s Guitars For Peace Ukraine Relief collection will be given in support of the people of Ukraine through the Disaster Emergency Committee, as well as for rebuilding efforts once the war ends.
“For many centuries, music has always played a pivotal role in uniting communities and countries, especially during times of conflict,” said James JC Curleigh, President and CEO of Gibson Brands.
“Despite the dark circumstances, we stand by our amazing artists with our support to launch ‘Guitars for Peace,’ and to envision a better future for Ukraine and its citizens.”
The Gibson guitar brand partnered with artists and celebrities to perform on stage with the Ukraine Relief guitars this summer. Autograph books traveling alongside each limited-edition guitar were signed by high-profile celebrities including Paul McCartney (photo at top), The Rolling Stones, Slash, Brian May of Queen, Fher Olvera of Maná, Lzzy Hale, Maisie Peters, My Chemical Romance, Jason Momoa, and more.
“It’s been heartbreaking to watch the innocent people of Ukraine in such turmoil,” said Lzzy Hale of the hard rock band Halestorm. “I’m so proud of my Gibson family for stepping up to provide a bit of hope to our fellow humans.”
The in-person bidding for the licensed guitar collection and autograph books took place at Julien’s Auctions Icons & Idols: Rock ‘N’ Roll live auction at the Hard Rock Café in New York. The bidding was also available online from Nov. 11th to Nov. 13th.
“It is an honor to represent the brave sovereign state of Ukraine,” said SLASH. “I’m proud to support them during this conflict.”
The Guitars For Peace Les Paul Custom guitar collection features the azure blue and gold colors of the Ukrainian flag, which is a symbol of international solidarity for the democracy and independence of the Ukrainian people. The Ukrainian flag was originally created in 1848 and has flown as the national flag of the country since Ukraine achieved its independence.
“Once again, Gibson Gives rises to the occasion!” said Alex Lifeson of RUSH. “I’m proud to count myself in as a supporter of the Guitars For Peace initiative in aid of the people of Ukraine.”
In addition to the line of Les Paul Custom guitars, Gibson has launched a line of Guitars For Peace t-shirts to provide consumers with an affordable way to support the Ukraine Relief effort through Guitars for Peace.
Gibson Gives is the charitable branch of the international guitar and instrument company, Gibson Brands. Gibson Gives works with other non-profits to raise funds, awareness and resources for humanitarian aid projects. Since the project re-launched in 2019, Gibson Gives has raised over 3.5 million dollars worldwide to support non-profit organizations in their efforts to advance musicians, youth-focused education, and wellness initiatives.
Founded in 1894, Gibson Brands currently represents a portfolio of music-based brands including Epiphone, Kramer, MESA/Boogie, KRK, Maestro, and the eponymous Gibson guitar brand.