Brian May, the legendary guitarist of Queen, unveiled his first official signature model with Gibson in early 2025—the limited edition Gibson SJ-200 12-string acoustic guitar. Handcrafted by the Gibson Custom Shop in Bozeman, Montana, the guitar is a meticulously designed instrument that not only reflects May’s unique playing style but also carries a heartfelt tribute to Queen’s iconic frontman, Freddie Mercury.
Design and Features
The Gibson SJ-200 (sometimes referenced as JS-200, though major sources confirm SJ-200) features a classic 12-string configuration with reversed octave and regular acoustic strings tailored to May’s distinctive strumming technique. Crafted from AAA Sitka spruce for the top and AAA rosewood for the back and sides, the guitar offers both visual and tonal richness.
May’s personal touches abound: a two-piece AAA maple neck with a rounded profile, rosewood fretboard adorned with agoya shell eight-point star inlays, and a vintage sunburst finish that recalls classic Gibson aesthetics. The standout element is the planetary-themed pickguard—designed by May himself—with an explicit homage to Mercury, the planet, serving as a symbolic nod to his late friend and bandmate.
A Tribute to Freddie Mercury
Brian May spoke openly about the significance of the Mercury motif on the guitar. “I have a Mercury on the guitar now, which makes me very happy,” he said, emphasizing the personal connection behind the design. “That’s a little nod to a friend of mine. Freddie’s always with me, because he was like a brother. The relationships in Queen lasted longer than any of our marriages.”
This tribute goes beyond symbolism. Since Mercury’s passing, May has performed emotionally charged renditions of “Love of My Life”—a song Mercury wrote on piano—often accompanied by archival video and audio footage of Mercury. Traditionally played on Godin or Ovation 12-string guitars, May now uses the Gibson SJ-200 for these performances, bridging the past and present through both sound and sentiment.
Onstage Use and Emotional Resonance
May debuted a prototype of the SJ-200 during recent UK tours, including performances of “Love of My Life.” He noted how the 12-string’s rich resonance helped him channel Mercury’s spirit: “I picked up a 12-string and found that I could make it sing with Freddie quite easily.” The instrument thus serves not only as a tribute but as a living link to the Queen legacy.
At the launch event at London’s Gibson Garage in February 2025, May’s performance underscored the guitar’s emotional weight, coinciding with his personal recovery from a stroke and his ongoing celebration of his bond with Mercury.
Additional Artistic and Technical Highlights
The celestial theme extends beyond the Mercury pickguard. The star inlays and planetary motifs reflect May’s lifelong passion for astronomy, a passion mirrored in his academic background. The guitar’s vintage moustache bridge with 1960s-style accents adds historical charm, making the instrument both a musical tool and a collector’s piece. Priced at approximately $7,999 / £6,899, the limited run of 100 guitars is available exclusively through Gibson and authorized dealers.
Legacy and Context
This collaboration marks a milestone in May’s guitar career. Announced shortly after the opening of the Gibson Garage in London in 2024—an event featuring rock legends Jimmy Page and Tony Iommi—the SJ-200 is May’s first official signature Gibson model. Discussions about a Gibson-made version of May’s iconic Red Special guitar continue, but the SJ-200’s release signals a fresh chapter of influence and innovation, coinciding with Queen reissues and May’s triumphant health comeback.
Conclusion
Brian May’s Gibson SJ-200 is more than just a signature guitar—it is a deeply personal instrument that honors the memory of Freddie Mercury while showcasing May’s unique artistry and passion for music and science. The blend of craftsmanship, tribute, and performance history makes the SJ-200 a landmark release, a testament to legacy, friendship, and resilience in the world of rock.
