Eager to capture a share of the market for less expensive electric guitars as well as premium models, Gibson launched a budget-priced Les Paul in 1954.

Named the Junior, it sold for just $99, and was fitted with a single P-90 pickup; a 3/4 size version appeared two years later. 1959 saw the introduction of a new Gibson solid-body, also priced at $99.

Christened the Melody Maker, it bore a strong resemblance to the single-cutaway Junior, although it’s body was slightly thinner than it’s predecessor’s, while it’s headstock was narrower, and it’s pickup assemble was an all-in-one unit into the pickguard.

The Les Pauls were now moving towards becoming SGs.