Johnny Marr, the legendary guitarist behind the iconic sound of The Smiths, is set to auction off a treasure trove of his beloved guitars, offering fans a chance to own a piece of music history. This collection, spanning several decades and featuring instruments heard on classic Smiths tracks, is not just a guitarist's dream; it's a window into the evolution of indie music and Marr's own journey. In my opinion, this auction is more than just a sale; it's a celebration of Marr's artistic legacy and a reflection of the impact he's had on generations of musicians and fans alike.
A Guitarist's Journey
What makes this auction particularly fascinating is the diverse range of guitars on offer, each with its own story. The 1982 Rickenbacker 330 Jetglo, estimated to be worth £80,000, is not just a guitar; it's a symbol of Marr's early indie music pedigree. As he himself notes, it was used on tracks like 'This Charming Man' and 'What Difference Does It Make?', and even lent to Noel Gallagher for Oasis' debut single 'Supersonic'. This guitar, in my view, represents the golden age of indie music and the influence Marr had on shaping its sound.
One detail that I find especially interesting is the acoustic guitar heard on 'There Is a Light That Never Goes Out'. The 1971 Martin D-28, with an estimated value of £30,000-50,000, adds a layer of warmth and depth to the Smiths' sound. It's a reminder of the band's ability to blend raw emotion with intricate musical arrangements.
The Signature Instruments
The 1960 Cherry Red Gibson ES-355, with a top estimate of £150,000, is a guitar that holds a special place in Marr's heart. Bought for him by Seymour Stein, it became a signature instrument, played on 'Top of the Pops' and in the Smiths' final live performance. This guitar, in my opinion, represents the intersection of Marr's talent and the support of industry legends, shaping his career and the sound of The Smiths.
Another guitar seen on 'Top of the Pops', a Telecaster-style instrument created by British luthier Roger Giffin, adds a unique twist to the collection. With a top estimate of £30,000, it showcases Marr's willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of guitar design.
The Gibson Les Paul Standard
The 1984 Gibson Les Paul Standard, a go-to instrument for Marr, is more than just a guitar; it's a time capsule. Not only was it played on the final song of the final Smiths' live performance, but it has also appeared in post-Smiths projects, including songs by Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds and Gorillaz. This guitar, in my view, represents the enduring legacy of The Smiths and Marr's ability to evolve and adapt his sound.
A Generous Gesture
What many people don't realize is the generosity Marr has shown in lending his guitars to other artists. His willingness to support up-and-coming talent, like Noel Gallagher, is a testament to his character and the impact he's had on the music industry. This auction, in my opinion, is a chance for fans to appreciate the depth of his generosity and the impact he's had on the music scene.
A Musical Legacy
In conclusion, Johnny Marr's auction of his guitars is not just a sale; it's a celebration of a musical legacy. Each guitar, with its own story and estimated value, represents a chapter in Marr's journey and the evolution of indie music. As fans, we have the opportunity to own a piece of this history and appreciate the depth of Marr's talent and generosity. This auction, in my opinion, is a must-see for any music enthusiast, offering a unique glimpse into the world of The Smiths and the enduring impact of Johnny Marr.
