Get ready to rock! Johnny Marr, the guitar legend behind The Smiths' signature sound, is auctioning off nearly 100 iconic instruments from his life's work. This isn't just a sale – it's a chance for his beloved guitars to find new homes where they'll be loved and cherished, not stuck in storage like relics.
The idea for the auction was born out of Marr's latest project: 'Marr's Guitars', a book that showcases his staggering collection. Speaking to BBC News, Marr confessed that having all those instruments gathering dust felt "very weird". He wants them to be more than just museum pieces – he wants them to make music with new owners.
The star of the show is, without doubt, Marr's 1982 Rickenbacker 330 Jetglo. This guitar was the heartbeat of The Smiths' greatest hits like 'This Charming Man' and 'What Difference Does It Make'. But that's not all – it also appeared on Oasis' debut single 'Supersonic', having been lent to Noel Gallagher for the recording sessions of 'Definitely Maybe'. Another showstopper is a 1984 Green Burst Telecaster, which Marr used during The Smiths' legendary appearance on 'Top Of The Pops'.
But it's not all about the past – modern classics like Marr's custom 2017 Fender Johnny Marr Signature Jaguars are also up for grabs. This particular guitar was used in Billie Eilish's James Bond theme, 'No Time To Die', and on Marr's 2018 tour. Other notable instruments include a 1971 12-string Martin D-28, which added magic to Smiths songs like 'There Is a Light That Never Goes Out', and a 1984 Cherry Gibson Les Paul Standard, featured on The Smiths' 'Meat Is Murder' album and lent to New Order's Bernard Sumner for their track 'Regret'.
Marr wants his studio to remain creative, not a museum. The collection will be divided into 95 lots and exhibited at Christie's in both New York and London over the summer. The auctions kick off in London on September 19, with estimates ranging from £1,000 to £150,000. Proceeds will support worthy causes like The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association and The National Autistic Society.
Marr reflected on his lifelong passion: "Each guitar I've acquired has helped me grow as a musician, bringing new songs, new sounds and techniques." Parting with these instruments is bittersweet, but he hopes they'll inspire new owners just as they have inspired him. Christie's Specialist Head of Private & Iconic Collections, Amelia Walker, is equally enthusiastic about the sale, highlighting Marr's innovative spirit and the profound impact his music has had on generations of fans.