Introducing the Inspired by Gibson Mayday Monster ’59 Les Paul Standard and the Inspired by Gibson Custom Mayday Monster 1960 J-45, signature models for the founding member of the mandopop group Mayday
Gibson is celebrating one of modern Asian rock’s most influential artists by appointing Monster—the leader, lead guitarist, and founding member of the mandopop group Mayday—as an official Gibson Ambassador, coinciding with the debut of two new Epiphone artist signature guitar models: the Inspired by Gibson Mayday Monster ’59 Les Paul™ Standard and the Inspired by Gibson Custom Mayday Monster 1960 J-45™.
The Mayday Monster 1960 J-45 features pearloid five-star and “Monster Hug Heart” inlays
Widely celebrated as “The Beatles of the Chinese-speaking world,” Mayday has become one of the defining bands in modern Asian rock, and Monster’s expressive guitar work, melodic precision, and deep commitment to live performance have shaped that legacy from the very beginning. Gibson and Epiphone will officially release both signature models on May 31, 2026, unveiling instruments that honor Monster’s artistry and influence. Available in select regions across Asia, both Epiphone signature guitars can be found at authorized Gibson and Epiphone dealers.
Respected for his tasteful playing, tonal sensibility, and dedication to craftsmanship, Monster is admired not only as a guitarist but as a creative leader whose influence continues to inspire generations of musicians across Mandarin-speaking regions and beyond. His new Epiphone signatures follow three earlier artist models—the Epiphone Limited Edition “Mayday Monster” Les Paul Standard, the Epiphone Limited Edition “Mayday Monster,” and the Gibson “Mayday Monster” 1959 Les Paul Standard Reissue—with two additional Gibson signature releases planned for late 2026, further expanding his collaborative legacy.
The Mayday Monster ’59 Les Paul Standard is finished in striking Mayday Blue and accented by a custom red heart graphic designed by Monster’s daughter
Together, the two new signature models reflect the full breadth of Monster’s artistry: the arena-filling energy of an electric icon and the intimate storytelling voice of a classic acoustic. More importantly, they honor an artist whose musicianship, leadership, and creative vision have helped define a generation of rock music across Mandarin-speaking regions. With this appointment and these new releases, Epiphone celebrates Monster not only as a guitarist but as a cultural force whose legacy continues to connect craftsmanship, family, heritage, and his global rock influence.
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