Neal Schon’S First Les Paul Guitar — And Why He Still Calls It His “Partner”

April 1, 2025

Neal Schon was just a boy when he first laid eyes on the beautiful, glossy Les Paul guitar that would change his life forever. It was in a small music store in San Francisco, where the walls were lined with instruments of all kinds. But the moment Neal spotted the sunburst finish on that Les Paul, his heart raced. It gleamed under the overhead lights like a beacon calling to him. His fingers itched to wrap around the neck, and he could almost hear the sweet sound it would produce. He didn’t have a lot of money back then, but he knew he had to have it. After collecting every spare penny he could find, he rushed back to the store, and that night, he finally became the proud owner of his first Les Paul.

From that moment on, the guitar became more than just an instrument to Neal; it was his partner in creativity. Together, they would explore uncharted musical territories. He would spend countless hours in his room, strumming, plucking, and crafting solos that seemed to dance in the air. The Les Paul felt alive in his hands, responding to his every emotion. It was with this guitar that Neal poured his heart out, writing songs that would eventually touch the lives of millions. Each chord struck was a conversation between him and the guitar, each note a story waiting to be told.

As Neal ventured into the world of rock music, he formed the legendary band Journey. The Les Paul traveled with him through every rehearsal, every concert, and every moment of triumph and struggle. It was there by his side when Journey released their iconic album “Escape,” featuring hits that still resonate today. The guitar was not just a piece of wood and strings; it was a vessel of dreams, carrying Neal’s hopes and insecurities. Through the highs and lows of fame, it stood as a reminder of where he came from, of the young boy who dared to dream big.

However, the journey wasn’t always smooth. There were times when things got tough—when the pressure of the music industry weighed heavily on him, and doubts crept in like shadows. But during those dark moments, Neal would pick up his Les Paul and play. The familiar feel of the neck provided comfort, and the sound of the strings lifted his spirits. It was as if the guitar whispered encouragement, reminding him of the passion that fueled his music. Each strum pulled him back to his roots, to that little boy who had a vision and the courage to chase it.

Even today, as a seasoned musician, Neal still calls his Les Paul his “partner.” The bond they formed over the years is unbreakable. He carries his guitar with him to every performance, every studio session, because he believes that together they can conquer anything. The Les Paul has witnessed every triumph, every tear, and every victory, and it continues to inspire him to push the boundaries of his artistry. Neal knows that music has the power to heal, to connect, and to bring people together, and his faithful partner will always be there, helping him tell the stories that matter most.

In the end, Neal’s Les Paul isn’t just a guitar; it’s a symbol of his journey, resilience, and unwavering passion for music. It represents the many challenges he has faced and overcome, reminding him and his fans that dreams are worth pursuing, no matter the odds. With every note he plays, Neal Schon celebrates the power of creativity and the magic that happens when a musician and their instrument become one.