John Lennon - History Of His Guitars

[@AliasMark69]

My mother assembled John Lennon’s, 1964 Rickenbacker 325 Guitar. My mother... Dorothy J. Tandle "Dotty" was working at (RIC) Electro Strings Rickenbacker Guitars back in February 1964 in Santa Ana California. There was only 10 employees at the time and two woman. Mom was the first woman factory worker hired at Rickenbacker. Francis C. Hall, CEO of Ric had the idea to meet with the Beatles when they came to do the Ed Sullivan Show and give them some new guitars. Mr. Hall gave Harrison a new twelve string guitar when he met them. (assembled by Dotty) When Francis C. Hall got back from N.Y., after talking to John, Paul and Ringo he had a new guitar made for John. F.C. Hall presented Lennon with a new 325 to replace his road weary 1958 one during the group's first trip to New York City. Rush shipped to the Hotel Deauville in Miami where it was used for the second performance in "Ed Sullivan Show" on February 16th. Nicknamed at the factory… “Miami Special” John used the new guitar on The Beatles second Sullivan appearance and on the group's subsequent tours and albums. My Father was the insurance man for "RIC" for 19 years. He used to go Bowling a lot with Ward Deaton, the GM at the time. (“Kona Lanes“, Harbor Blvd Santa Ana) I was there many times with them. Dad told Ward that Mom did soldering at Rockwell International and was very good. Ward hired mom to solder their guitars. She went to the factory with Dad and was shown what they wanted her to do, she thought it would be simple. My dad asked if she could assemble the parts at home with her five young children after her full time job. Ward agreed to pay her by the units produced, “Under The Table” cash. She did just soldering at first but soon developed a system and could produce four days worth of production compared to the past, after 3 months she wanted to quit working full time and asked if she could do more for RIC but continue working for cash/no taxes, so she asked for something else to do when she was ahead. Ward Deaton GM agreed and she worked at her own bench with no record on the Books, later she was added to the official records due to insurance liabilities. Ward liked the work she did and trained her to do everything she was comfortable doing. She learned the sanding process next doing the bodies neck/heads and Ward said…. “Dotty gives our guitars the woman’s touch, that’s why they are so sexy looking” Hand cutting pick guards and name tags. She was taught how to do the frets/finger board finishing. My dad has watched my mother several times do all the work on custom guitars at the factory. He would give them advise on safety issues. I have been to the factory in Santa Ana as a kid. Mom worked full time from 63 through 66/67, then she did part time for a while and did some soldering at home the last few years and brought the work in to the factory. The phone rang at our house at 6:10AM with the GM of Ric Ward Deaton asking if my mom could come in ASAP to work on a special rush order guitar My mother was asked to follow Lennon’s Custom guitar from start to finish. This was the Black & White semi-hollow bodied “Miami” model (serial number db122, d=1964, b=Feb.). After the woodshop cut out the body, she sanded the body, then worked on the neck & fret board, then she assembled the guitar after the finish was applied. She did all the work herself. She did the same for many custom orders at that time. She was trained in all areas except the wood shop and finishes. She did all the sanding, fret board assembly, hand cut the pick guard, electronics soldering and put all the other pieces on John Lennon’s Custom 325. John’s 325 was the first one with the fifth black tone knob. Mom said she was surprised at how small the guitar was and asked if it was a child’s model because it is so little compared to the Ric Bass.. She liked John’s guitar because it didn’t have an f hole or edge binding to fuss with. I don’t know how long it took to assemble the guitar, but I know she said it is all that mom worked on that day in February 1964. After finishing the guitar, she gave it to the tuner/inspector. He was a good friend and gave mom a ride home three times per week. He asked my mother “Since you built it, what song would you like to hear?” My mother said…“Peanut Butter And Jelly”. That was a song she wrote and the tuner knew the cords. My mother sang the song as it was being played. SO… The very first song ever played on John Lennon’s famous 325 was a song my mother wrote about the messes I made as a child. There is a “GREEN” check mark inside the guitar. The guitar assembled in February 1964 by Dotty custom made specially for John to replace his 1958 model 325 “Capri“ was dropped and the head was damaged, later repaired.. It now hangs on display at the Rock N Roll HOF. It is priceless. John’s “Miami” was replaced with a “1996” Fire-glo model from the Rickenbacker London sales rep/dealer Rose-Morris Ltd. Ten years later…..In the 1974, I worked for “Fender Musical Instruments” in Fullerton California. I made two Fender Rhodes Electric Pianos for John Lennon/Apple Studios. The one used on “Walls and Bridges” “Well if they’re gonna send one, send two cause I’d like one as well” John Lennon ordering a Fender Rhodes Electric Piano at the Apple studios. (Elton John recorded “Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds” with the same piano) My mother and myself are the only mother/son that both built an instrument for John Lennon. My mother made guitars for many famous Rockers, including the red guitar that was smashed by Peter Townsend of the WHO and is in the Rock HOF. Chris Squire, Roger Waters, Paul McCartney (left-handed 1964 4001S FG Rickenbacker bass) , John Entwistle, George Harrison’s 12 String. Roger McGuinn 12 string and many others. I have built pianos for “You name it” just about everyone IE: “Pink Floyd” on “Dark Side Of The Moon” It is our little contribution to Classic Rock. I’m very proud of that fact.

[@scotttyson8661]

Wow man just sharing that is historical.

[@jamesvseverything5974]

That’s inane, I can’t believe this comment hasn’t gotten more attention

[@SirZaydenOfNapier10]

That may be one of the coolest stories I've ever read.

[@cooleslaw]

@@jamesvseverything5974 Hopefully you meant insane*

[@cuda426hemi]

@@cooleslaw 😯

[@88SPIKE]

I'm sure John Lennon bought his first guitar earlier than that because I was in the same class as John and Pete Shotton at Quarry bank and played guitar with John round at Petes house on a couple of occasions - I bought my guitar in '56 around the same time as he did. Eric Griffiths was also there and Rod Davies plus a pal of mine Geoff Lee who played the washboard.

[@o_o3684]

Fallic Alec How old are you?

[@88SPIKE]

@@o_o3684 79 in March

[@bobjones9600]

@@88SPIKE phallic You're 4 real. !

[@88SPIKE]

@@bobjones9600 Sure am mate!

[@througheverything]

Fallic Alec That’s awesome

[@edbenson98]

Interestingly, his 1962 Gibson Acoustic guitar 7:04 went missing for almost half a century and it resurfaced in a pawn shop! John lost it during the Beatles’ Finsbury Park Christmas Show and it was one of his favorite guitars. It was auctioned off in 2015 and fetched $2.4 million!

[@PaulWalkerKarenPfeiffer]

Very informative & extremely enjoyable. I first saw John Lennon on The Beatles 1962 tour with Helen Shapiro. I'll never forget that he walked onstage & said "My name is John Lennon, I'd like to introduce you to my group".

[@haldumille5594]

John Lennon listened to Elvis Presley records when he was 11 years old in 1951? That's pretty amazing considering the fact that Elvis' first recording was released in early 1956...

[@moabt.frican7163]

Oh snap. You went there.

[@matejkrajnc1797]

Elvis first commercial recording was released in mid-1954.

[@haldumille5594]

@@matejkrajnc1797 Lennon first heard Elvis' Heartbreak Hotel on Radio Luxembourg. It's the song and artist that Lennon credits with changing his life. That was in 1956.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Guys you are absolutely right it's a mistake that found its way through apologies to all... I should have said he was influenced by Elvis and not stated his age but I tied it in to when he got his first guitar which as you have rightly pointed out is incorrect... Thanks guys!

[@michaelmendillo4614]

Weren't they in the Army together ? Lol !!!!!!

[@lungflogger9]

Thank you for this fascinating history. I have a modest collection (2 dozen or so) of the British Monthly Beatle Books I used to buy them in Hollywood at a newstand in the late '60's. There are loads of photos of them in studio with their instruments. I would just stare at these photos while listening to their LPs imagining being there in studio as they were recording the songs I was listening to (the captions often mentioned what LP they were working on at the time). I am a retired musician; I was definitely influenced by them in those days.

[@TheGuitarShow]

I'd love to see those books! Beatles are the best!

[@mp3ste1]

@@TheGuitarShow yeah i would like to see them books aswell thats a fine collection you have and very ultra rare beatles books

[@obcmissions]

Love that the lead picture at the beginning of this video is his 12-string Rickenbacker!

[@downwindjaxon]

What an amazing technical knowledge of John Lennon’s guitars you have. Nice work. Brought back some great memories and filled in a bunch of details for this old Beatle fan. Keep it up!

[@TheGuitarShow]

Thanks very much

[@michaelmendillo4614]

John was an amazing guitarist,, it wasn't something that was ever focused upon during his career, but anyone who has ever tried to play and sing, with the complete ease that John did while performing will know and appreciate what a talent this man had,,,, 😁🖒✌

[@TheGuitarShow]

Great comment thanks

[@michaelmendillo4614]

@John Cliff No argument there my friend,,, just an amazingly talented human being ,,, 😁✌

[@robwilde6857]

@Michael Mendillo No he wasn't. He was a competent guitarist. People like Hendrix, Clapton, Lee and Beck were in a completely different league. Lennon's prowess lay in his song writing and his voice although he was never comfortable with the latter.

[@tlgtlg3803]

I agree, he (lennon) used major, minor,major 7ths, minor 7ths to his advantage, briliantly, also great with numerous bar chords, the old standbys, great ear & talent at such a young age,, commonly ,dropped the D string (4rth wound) a little "flat" to get that familiar sound (twang) in the early stuff ,,it was great!!

[@michaelmendillo4614]

@@tlgtlg3803 Yes,,,considering all of their ages,,,,It is really mind blowing what they where capable of ! Incredible,,,,

[@jw_au]

Brilliant job as always... and wow, the Lennon’s have a Burst just sitting in the attic somewhere, that’s cool... can’t wait to hear about the amps!

[@TheGuitarShow]

Thanks John

[@fredthebass185]

63 year old Beatles fan and musician lucky enough to have a home studio and library of mainly (but not exclusively) Beatles history. Includes a framed letter from Apple declining an invite to tea and a jam session from 1970! Fantastic documentary! Well researched and presented. Thank you very much.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Pleasure I owe a lot to J. Crowley and his research for the record.

[@EltonWhenRockWasYoung]

Well done on a very informative video. 😊 A few trivial points: 1. Presley released his first US single on July 19, 1954, so Lennon couldn't have been listening to his records at age 11; 2. regarding the Ramirez, the nylon-string parts on 'And I Love Her' and 'I'll Be Back' are played by Harrison (although he may have been using Lennon's guitar); 3. "luthier" is pronounced "LOO-ti-ər"; 4. the November 28, 1974 concert with Elton John was not Lennon's last. You alluded to the actual last concert when discussing Lennon's 1962 Martin D28 acoustic (16:54): the 'A Tribute To Sir Lew Grade' show, April 18, 1975; 5. In 1967 the members of The Fool were Simon Posthuma and Marijke Koger (pronounced "mar-AYE-kər").

[@Glicksman1]

I am a friend of Ron DeMarino. I have had many discussions with him about Lennon's first Rick 325. Ron was the one who, at Lennon's request, restored it to the original natural finish. He told me that the black paint was terribly applied by brush, he could see the brush strokes. He said that it came off easily as there was no undercoat or primer used and that the original natural alder wood was unharmed. Ron is now retired as a luthier and wishes to remain anonymous.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Many thanks indeed for this invaluable info!

[@ichbin4122]

I thought Stu had a steady hand

[@skibo3522]

Yo Guitar Show, This is freaking fantastic!! Thank you guys so MUCH for taking the time to compile this list, (and then posting it of course)!! ~Mark~

[@TheGuitarShow]

My pleasure

[@aylamiller5752]

In my opinion all John Paul and George where amazing guitarists. They just came up with knew stuff that continues to amaze and entertain people today.

[@charliepin4501]

Gifted and versatile muscians. Check. Singers par excellence. Check. _Rockin_ band. Check. Some of the best songwriters of the 20th century. Check. Other than that, just another rock band from the 60's ... :--)

[@charliepin4501]

But, ya, I love how random and, basically, irrelevant his guitars were to what he did. I mean, he played that little 5/8 size guitar for years. Not a short man. What was that about? My feeling is that he just wasn't paying that much attention, got used to it, and kept playing it out of inertia and having other, more important things on his mind. Like the middle 8 to "We Can Work It Out". :--)

[@ichbin4122]

@@charliepin4501 mmmh....there is always one

[@timothysullysullivan2571]

i'll never forget the first time I played a 325. Felt like a toy at 3/4 scale! and sounds like a banjo (understandably since John started on banjo. He always played his D form chords banjo style.)

[@St.petersEye]

Been trying to find a video about this, my god you blew me away. What a masterpiece, thank you. What a collection, so over looked.

[@TheGuitarShow]

My pleasure Richard - it makes it all worth while!

[@jonnybeck6723]

Just got home, 9:30-ish AM, coffee in hand, sat down, set cup on desk, picked up the Epi ES-335 and lo & behold me favorite guitar channel has gifted me w/ the best kind of entertainment... (I'll return after)

[@TheGuitarShow]

Pleasure is mine, happy new year bro

[@jonnybeck6723]

@@TheGuitarShow ...and very many happy reruns

[@eternalme6077]

AWESOME VID! John is my FAVORITE BEATLE and as a kid I used to draw pictures of him and his Rickenbacker. I have Always been interested in ALL OF THE OTHER Guitar's he played, so this Video is right up my Alley. Again Thank you so VERY much for Posting this Beauty ........🎸💚

[@TheGuitarShow]

You the man! Happy New year

[@fractionstein]

Ronnie DeMarino converted a number of righty Gibson guitars to lefty for me. He had the original pickguard from Lennon's Rickenbacker ,hanging on a nail on the inside of a cabinet in his shop in Copaigue NY.

[@dannyc.jewell8788]

The amount of research required here is mind blowing ,simply the best, I am taken aback , from a lover of quality

[@SIRONEDRAGON]

In 2007 went to the John Lennon Museum in Saitama Japan.. section in Tokyo.. and saw 3 of the guitars in this video.. the black 325 Ric with the song list taped to the upper cutaway. the Les Paul Jr. with the Charlie Christain neck pickup and the Dragon Hollow body Acoustic .. In London 2005 got to hold one of John Lennon's Army shirt at the Hard Rock Vault. .....basement at the Hard Rock gift shop ' '

[@strat0871]

Thanks, happy new year Ramon.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Thanks happy new year

[@FlaschDJ]

I’m so glad I now know the serial numbers of John’s guitars! But I have to admit: this presenter’s research is peerless. And, I even understand that serial numbers are illuminating to researching. Great video. Thank you.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Thanks and happy new year to you

[@jltrem]

Now THAT'S the way to end the year. In 2000 the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame had a Lennon exhibit which included many of these guitars. Among them was the Gibson J 160E, caricature acoustic. If you looked inside the sound hole one could see the residue of blue paint from The Fool's previous design. Regarding the Sonic Blue strat, Sonic Blue varies quite a lot, sometimes looking like Daphne and other times looking almost white. It's neat that you included the Black Strat, Ramon. I believe the Epiphone Casino is at the R&R HOF at this time, so I really should head back up there, as it was in the John Lennon Museum in Japan (since closed) at the time of the R&R HOF Lennon exhibit and I'd love to lay eyes on it. I live in Cuyahoga Falls (the second city name checked in the last verse of The Pretenders' "My City Was Gone") which is only 30 odd miles from Cleveland. If I do, I'll send you some photos, Ramon. Have a wonderful, or should I say, gear New Year.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Amazing comment thanks happy new year and wishes you the best for 2020

[@Johngonefishin]

I'm sure the 62' Strat is Sonic Blue, a color Fender took from GM on the 56' Chevs, being brand new guitars at the time they had no fading or change to the color yet, most all old custom color Fenders will fade to some degree depending on exposure and usage over the decades, Daphne Blue was quite a bit darker than Sonic.

[@jltrem]

@@Johngonefishin Yes, it is Sonic. Says so on the bill of sale. I was just remarking on Ramon's comment that it appeared more Daphne to him and the fact that Sonic can very greatly. I've seen it look almost like Daphne and so pale it appears light blue tinted white.

[@banzai0212]

Your History of Guitars Re: John Lennon is mesmerizing so much so that I must watch it again; that is, if I am to edify myself at all. Kudos Supreme to the narrator!! Perfect Voice! When people ask you, "What instrument do you play"? my hope is that your reply is, "Is not it obvious? I proudly play the Vocal Chords"!

[@TheGuitarShow]

pleasure - thank you! I am a guitar player but I try to sing as well. Happy new year!

[@goldtopgrandeur6935]

These are brilliant videos! Can't wait for the one about their amps. Thank you and take care...

[@TheGuitarShow]

Pleasure thanks

[@We_All_Seek_Truth]

Ha! Ramongoose?! Cool handle. I like your videos too. You give enough details to satisfy most all of us detail oriented equipment obsessed people. - MORE than!! Keep up the good work!

[@TheGuitarShow]

Thanks - I try!

[@polnoeceloe]

In general, Lennon played on everything that comes across, he did not have a permanent brand. What a guitar is, that one is right. This is the best approach if someone wants to do art, not technology

[@hollywoodjoe123]

well said - I agree !

[@spaceengineer1452]

Casino was his most often used...

[@rickb4806]

I have a Hofner Club 140, 1964. I have owned it since 1966 at age 11 for a Xmas gift.

[@counterfeit1148]

@@spaceengineer1452 Guess it was so good

[@shirtsguitar]

True2

[@markforde3103]

Great video as usual,looking forward to the Amps.Happy New Year!

[@TheGuitarShow]

Happy New year Mark

[@Haz69420]

My good friend actually owns the Dallas tuxedo that was found in the attic of John's home. His Uncle bought Auntie Mimis house after they rose to fame . Later to be bought by Yoko Ono and donated to the National Trust. The Guitar is on display at the Beatles museum in Liverpool. :-)

[@anthonycintula9296]

When I hit the lotto. I’m getting black and white Rickenbacker Lol Great presentation. Thank you. Stay safe 🙏

[@TheGuitarShow]

Thanks me too Im getting one as well

[@humanchannel7825]

Or you could get a copy. You could buy some nice Rickenbacker pickups and add a headstock sticker that says rickenbacker. Most wouldn’t know the difference

[@geoffers47]

Did John Lees of Barclay James Harvest, "borrow" one of Lennon's guitars? I seem to remember he wrote a song about it.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Thanks for this I'll check it out

[@geoffers47]

@@TheGuitarShowkzbin.info/www/bejne/f3uqmnyvhZWem5Y

[@triplesevensix291]

Lennon was into Formby? Wow. All the best for new years from downtown Liverpool Ramon. Nice one La. I live right next door to the Lennon/ John Moores art school. Its 50 feet away. Cheers man.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Amazing thanks for this comment I'll have to visit one day

[@promerops]

I once heard a recording of McCartney saying that George Harrison was a member of the George Formby Appreciation Society. He also loved to play ukulele, of course.

[@francovani2359]

Loved it ! Lennon to me was my first guitar hero. I especially enjoyed the post Beatles guitars. I once owned a Japanese replica of his red Stratocaster with red head stock and brass hardware it was a late 70's early 80"s El Degas.

[@EstevanOsorio]

You mentioned a Tweed Tremolux amp, but if memory serves it was actually a Tweed Vibrolux and which was eventually recovered in a black vinyl or naugahyde (or something similar) and then later given to John's nephew alongside the orange Gretsch. Amazing videos as always, Ramon.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Thanks for this info

[@gimmesometruth08]

great video! precise informations!! thx from Japan.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Many thanks indeed for watching 🙏🙏🙏

[@moontheloon1969]

as always, a joy to watch, thank you

[@TheGuitarShow]

Pleasure

[@chrismerlo1294]

I played the blue strat in NJ in '94 or '95 at a repair/custom shop. It was there being checked out before being sent on its way to a collector in Japan along with another dozen or so vintage axes. I stopped in one Monday morning after a college class and saw a bunch of vintage cases all lined up by the door, I was into Strats and quickly singled out an old Fender case. As I was banging away on the thing the shop proprietor shouted from the other room they were all dropped off the night before (he seemed bent he had to stay up late on a Sunday) by Lenny Kravitz and that Lenny had gotten the strat from Sean who sad it was his dads. Of course back then there was no way validate any of this. I couldn't find a picture of John with the guitar until many years after and when I finally did it really confirmed it for me that I played Lennons's strat. That was the strat I played. I do know for sure it was a legit vintage strat. The shop had some legit superstar artist and big time collector connections. The shop proprietor was not one to make a big deal out of any of it. I was pain in his ass about it as I just wanted a vintage strat and he offered to me for $2000 if I could come up with the money by that coming Friday. I was driving a $600 car back then and $2000 might well have been 2 million. Missed out on that one.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Amazing story thanks for sharing it with us

[@kenholley9431]

THANK YOU. YOU ARE A BREATH OF FRESH AIR. LOVE THIS TYPE OF TEACHING. CARRY ON BROTHER. YOU HAVE A FAN.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Thanks Ken

[@anthonycongiano8890]

Great highly detailed video!!! The 325 story is exactly what I was looking for! Thanks!

[@TheGuitarShow]

Pleasure 🙏

[@genatzvalee]

Never paid attention to John's guitars... until now! Great recommendation. This was very interesting, thank you! And as always, there were pics I didn't see before, like this one at 11:14 Gorgeous!

[@jermainem3399]

Thank you mate excellent comontery sir we miss him dearly and the lads imagine how they're last concert would have been like stay blessed patriot and thank you

[@TheGuitarShow]

Thank you

[@buffalobraves9]

0:12 He couldn't have listened to Elvis records at 11 years old as Elvis' first record "That's All Right" wasn't released until 1954 when Lennon was 14.

[@kwamenkruma425]

good point

[@hawk2291]

John was capable of time travel. It’s a well known fact. That’s why the Russians had him killed.

[@kwamenkruma425]

@@hawk2291 didn't know that, thank you.

[@MrJosephcunningham]

The Tele from the Elton John Concert can be seen being played in the "Stand By Me" video

[@TheGuitarShow]

Thanks for this

[@drsgtpepper95]

In 2017 I flew to Norman's Rare Guitars JUST so I could play a 325, It was my dream guitar before I had even touched one, and I absolutely fell in love, it helps that I have small hands, but it's a goal in life to own one some day. 😂

[@ffm_house]

You really need to get one. I've owned so many guitars over the years, but this one is my absolute favourite. I'd never ever sell it. This is a keeper.

[@PaulJonesy]

Absolute treasure trove of information, another great video, thanks.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Pleasure

[@zjokka]

wow, read so much about the Beatles and didn't know about that stolen one. 2:40 the Club Forty (according to Mark Lewisohn's massive biography on the early days) was affectionately referred to as the 'Club Footy'

[@tanner1681]

Did You say, "Welcome to the guitar show. My name is 'Ramon goose?'" Haha, goose. Nice video, guy, it was well informative, good production value, and you have a nice voice and good narration skills. This was a nice little history lesson, thanks.

[@rickmark9625]

That white telecaster is John Lennon's guitar if you look you can see the telecaster on the wall behind John in his studio in his home in England

[@TheGuitarShow]

Pleasure! Yes that's my name Ramon Goose! Crazy but true!

[@TheGuitarShow]

@@rickmark9625 thanks for this info

[@timothysullysullivan2571]

there is a photo of the natural 325 at the NY trade show. the grain matches exactly- so it is the same guitar.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Thanks Timothy

[@Ptpop]

Excellent review. I've always wondered if the changing the finish on his guitars effected the sound quality.

[@ericscottstevens]

The best guitar stories are the ones of famous musicians just going to a random pawn shop and finding a sonic gem. A new life for an instrument relegated to barter.

[@ichbin4122]

i've a couple. But i m after thee Strummer/Genzale White leg end falcon. Been asking someone on fbook...to no avail.

[@individrus]

Thanks so much for such a detailed and accurate research! Always waiting for your new videos!

[@TheGuitarShow]

Pleasure

[@iangray7410]

Wow. Well researched. And while I'd love to brag that I own several instruments of the near-vintage, that's not the deal. As a boomer, I leave my hurd of guitars to an indifferent pair of sons and wonder if the resale of guitars and my large collection of vintage amps will sustain my multiple award winning Bluegrass recording artist wife in her antiquity.

[@alfatone2654]

Excellent research, thank you so much for sharing. I would love to see you do one on Jerry Garcia's gear. He's played some beauties over his short lifetime too.

[@dannyboi607]

That's funny they said it was garentead not to split but it actually split

[@Oceantreasures24]

Did it?

[@dannyboi607]

It probably did

[@jessieplaysmusic8530]

I was actually thinking the same thing. You would think the quality with hand made guitars, I’d think at least it would last

[@MiguelDeJesusClimaco]

My friend. It's guaranteed *

[@nealdewar9959]

Guarantee can mean if it splits you get a replacement.

[@LennyJohnson5]

He listened to Elvis in 1951? Blimey, that takes some doing.

[@chrislastname744]

Time machine

[@bassinblue]

I love how Lennon didn't care about big brand names and would just get whatever sounded and felt nice.

[@sandycohen9862]

Same with me if it sounded good and played great,it was for me

[@vox1966]

She probably made my 1973 4001 Bass I ordered from Rickenbacker

[@HektorBandimar]

Good video, very interesting presentation, I really liked all the little facts you included, well done!

[@LennyJohnson5]

.... but apart from the obvious Elvis error, that was really enjoyable and informative.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Thanks Lenny, yeah I know that was so dumb of me.... Too late now!

[@zsoltibago4096]

Thank you very much for this great summary, very informative, great job 🙏🙏🙏🙂 I was missing only the Fender VI Bass which was using on the Let It Be video. Same in case of George's video. Maybe I'm wrong, but as far as I know both have a Fender VI Bass. Anyhow, these videos are very enjoyable and informative :-) thanx for them

[@TheGuitarShow]

Thanks for watching

[@dannyking8228]

I have a photo of Lennon playing a Ovation model 1619 which is a stereo acoustic electric made in the late 70's and early 80's. Guitar came to be known as the John Lennon model. He used it on the Double Fantasy album.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Yes I saw that in my research alas I ran out if time thanks

[@KennyG_420]

Great video!!! John sanded down sunburst guitar playing on the rooftop my favorite guitar of his

[@TheGuitarShow]

Thanks for watching Kenny

[@KennyG_420]

No, problem, you did a lot of research for this. Like writing a term paper lol

[@ALF-Tupper]

Worth mentioning the Bartell fretless given to John Lennon around 1968 by Paul Barth and Ted Peckels 6th June 1968 - John Lennon (with the Beatles) appears on the Kenny Everett radio show. Recorded at Abbey Road studios, this was broadcast by BBC Radio One on 9th June between 10.00am and Midday. The entire, uncut interview appeared on a 1986 album called “The Golden Beatles” Audio Kenny: “What kind of guitar is that? It’s very strange looking.” John: “A fretless guitar.” John passed the guitar to George Harrison who in 1984 gifted the guitar to U.K. session guitarist Ray Russell mobile.twitter.com/FindingFretless

[@glenkepic3208]

Great work ! Happy New Year !!!

[@badmonkey2222]

The workmen who found that guitar and the and two magazines in the loft were 2 lucky individuals.

[@Unidente02]

For me, this video was like finding a vein of gold in a coal mine. I know that as a guitar player seasons (s)he learns over time what features are important to him/her, and that certain guitars allow certain creative endeavors to shine through. At one point many years ago, I had a Lennon model Rickenbacker, but I found myself in difficult times, and had to sell the instrument on line to pay bills. Maybe there will be a chance to get another one, which will stay in my ownership. I remember that as I was cleaning it for shipment and packing, I accidentally struck one of the strings, and it was the unmistakable sound for one of the notes for "Day Tripper". Perhaps the guitar did not wish to go.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Many thanks indeed for your comment

[@TheCaribeso]

When I was a teenager I worked for Ronny DiMarino in Farmingdale, NY. I did all his customizations and repair work. I worked on a 54 Gibson Black Beauty for John Lennon, which is not in your video. There is quite an interesting story about the guitar and my involvement with it. Let me know if you ever want to hear about it.

[@bassplayersuperstar]

My Dad used a Club 40 for over 40 yrs .. I still have it, the pick up covers are made of wood .. cool

[@crisslastname9417]

I have a old bootleg album of the concert he did with Elton John. John's "Whatever Gets You Through The Night" was number one.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Nice!

[@JRAFF145]

It was released by Elton John

[@TheGuitarShow]

@@JRAFF145 yes I think on a B side?

[@JRAFF145]

see: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Here_and_There_(Elton_John_album)

[@davidbuch7468]

Photo’s taken during Lennon’s visit in Spain in 1966 to make the movie “How I Won the War” show John playing a classic nylon string acoustic made by Anselmo Solar Gonzalez. This is the guitar on which he wrote “Strawberry Fields.” These photos show him playing the guitar outdoors and inside his hotel room.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Many thanks for this

[@garydunham335]

Hell yeah, thank you for this!

[@TheGuitarShow]

Pleasure happy new year bro

[@RichSzerman]

great video. You didn't show the phantom vox guitar of John's. George played it on the magical mystery tour. I was lucky enough to be photographed with it years ago when it went up for auction.

[@kaivrock]

The sanded down Casino is one of the most gorgeous guitars I've seen.

[@daviddudley4843]

fantastic

[@michaelreaper666]

Your videos are really interesting . Many Thanks .keep them coming . :)

[@robdcollector2808]

michaelreaper666 ..this was very intresting!!!

[@JoeGator23]

Subbed... Happy New Year to you! Thanks.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Thanks Joe - happy new year

[@JoeGator23]

@@TheGuitarShow Happy 2022 to you!

[@heathereibach5546]

Here's something awesome the gallotone champion was extremely cheap then but now the guitars are super rare

[@rafaeldavid9726]

Thank you for this video. I'd heard it all my way home.

[@63supercobrajet]

John Lennon, more than most, admitted many times over how he owed so much to Chuck Berry, Fats, Little Richard, Buddy Holley, ...., and they also owe him a big thanks for helping keep Rock'n'Roll the greatest musical experience ever experienced by Human civilization.

[@pb12661]

Holly.

[@extanegautham8950]

all true except the last part. R and R is no greater than 10 othe types of music i could name right away, such as Western and Indian classical and 10 different kinds of African music...

[@63supercobrajet]

@@extanegautham8950 that reminds me of that truck-stop in Texas I was in decades ago, when I asked the waitress if they had any other music, and she said: we shore do, we got country, or, western. ;)

[@daviddudley4843]

unlike zeppelin, who did brilliant work but failed to credit the inspirations.

[@TimB335]

These videos are great, particularly the Beatles stuff, keep them coming! 👍✌️

[@TheGuitarShow]

Pleasure

[@georgebarry3153]

I was lucky enough to chat a few times with Ron De Marinp who worked on some of Johns guitars. Great guy. Hope he is doing well.

[@TheGuitarShow]

That's amazing George bet you got some great info

[@richardrybinski2320]

@@TheGuitarShow I know Ron still has the pickguard and the tuners mof one of Johns Rickenbackers. You don't throw tat kind of stuff away, even if broken!

[@elbecko7969]

Absolutely brilliant video. I never knew he had so many guitars, let alone commissioned refinishing, modified hardware etc. I knew about the Casino, Charlie Christian pickup though. Very interesting.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Thanks so much!

[@sgtpeppers94]

What about the Ovation that Lennon is holding on the cover of his acoustic album?

[@JoeyFielding1]

So well done thank you sir

[@TheGuitarShow]

Thank you Joey🙏

[@kipptt]

14:51 ringo's face of confusion on why he got a guitar lmao

[@williamthompson5071]

Great video. One thing that surprised me after listening to 50 years of The Beatles and JL is that he seemed to be chasing tone. Gives me a bit of new found respect for him. Thanks for the great video, mate.

[@nemo-nb3gh]

Look , John Lennon was a great artist . And regarding great guitar players it really didn't matter what sort of guitar they were playing . Yeah, many great guitar players play the best guitars and have a habit of buy and collecting guitars but that's not what made them great . I know these jokers who have money and buy lots of expensive guitars and can't play shit . Its like people with dough buy expensive cameras and they can't take a decent photo . Clapton bought tons of guitars and he probably used perhaps a core of 6 to 12 guitars in his prime . Hendrix probably didn't even have 8 his entire career . A great musician can play on a toy guitar and play superbly .

[@lucasoheyze4597]

True, but also no reason not to look at the guitars he actually did use either.

[@chrislastname744]

Ive heard guys play $20 acoustic guitars and made them sing.

[@tennisbum3686]

Thanks for this very informative and interesting documentary, excellent job

[@jltrem]

Ramon, just re-watched "John and Yoko: Above Us Only Sky" and noticed John playing an acoustic sunburst 12 string with what I believe is called a harp tailpiece rather than a standard acoustic bridge. I can't tell what it is as I haven't been able to read what's on the headstock. Any ideas? This link has a photo, lower left. Stay well, John. recordscdsandmusic.blog/2019/09/19/imagine-all-the-people-watching-tv-john-yoko-above-us-only-sky-blu-ray-a-review/

[@RossD8]

Excellent video, I certainly learned a lot. Thanks.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Pleasure thanks

[@markferguson3745]

I've been recently begun RE listening to the Beatles, and what strikes me most,- in those early days before all was defined, and everything designed for optimal use,- is the successful, imaginative, use of whatever was at hand, and the complete openness to style and technique.It's unfortunate that we can't UNLEARN what we now think so essential, but then, that could apply to all the genies choking us out upon their release from their bottles. What should this teach you about precious , vintage , equipment if you're a musician? That it DOESN'T MATTER. Often the limitations can help you speak much more clearly than a hundred options.

[@dailyflash]

The Beatles insisted on never repeating themselves. When a song was a hit, that didn't keep trying for more hits with the same sound. They moved on, always exploring, always experimenting. Never repeat yourself.

[@charliepin4501]

Much easier said than done. One thing you can truly say about the Beatles, and a relatively small number of artists in any era, is that they were driven to make their music. They all, as individuals, had that creative drive. Even more unusual, they had the ability to pool their talents and make something greater than the sum of its parts. That's true for any great rock band. But we don't see great rock bands every day, do we? :--)

[@markferguson3745]

@@charliepin4501 Absolutely.The motivation is always the thing; that was the age where anything was possible .This is the age where what went horribly wrong is likely to get worse . NOT at all a nostalgic type; just a amateur historian who can see reason.

[@putzengiler]

I believe there is a photo of John's Rick 325 at the 1958 Music Trade show in NYC , at the Rickenbacker kiosk a few years before John bought it... I think Toots Thielemann is in the photo.

[@KevyNova]

Great video, subbed! Although I would’ve liked to heard about the Fender VI that John (and George) used for bass on songs that Paul played piano on. Do you know who actually owned that instrument and where it ended up?

[@peteclarke9928]

The Rickenbacker black spray job was done by Ted Lee, now retired and living in Holme Village, near Holmfirth, Yorkshire, England. He sprayed George's Gretch at the same time. If anyone wants to confirm this, I'll happily put them in touch with him.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Many thanks indeed for this info I'll make a note of it

[@TheForce_Productions]

One more probe that there's no cheap or expensive guitars, the value come only from it player. Cheers.

[@ItsChapa_]

A 10 dollar guitar from a flea market wont be good for long

[@TheForce_Productions]

@@ItsChapa_ Well that is go to the extreme! A bone nut alone is more expensive lol. I meant, always within logic parameters...

[@kuroimusic]

@@TheForce_Productions Once I played a rubber band for 10 straight minutes, kicked it ass, and then it snapped.

[@moses640]

0 now 6 go hip g800 g800 to go fyi fyi fyi fyi fyi ui hi hi gu guy gig gu

[@moses640]

@@TheForce_Productions uuu uh

[@riffdigger2133]

Top drawer research. Well done.

[@melodymundy5985]

The one Sean has in Tokyo is the one Julian wanted. She gave Julian the junk one instead. Sad.

[@CaptainCraigKWMRZ]

Awesome as always! Thanks.

[@TheGuitarShow]

Thanks Craig

[@robertiaccarino4363]

That is Rick Neilson's Telecaster. Yoko and Sean recently returned the guitar to Rick. Or is is Ric?

[@TheGuitarShow]

I think you are right thank you

[@phila3884]

Really great job with this video! My Dad had a Ramirez guitar. Pleasantly surprised to learn that it was also in the Beatles' arsenal.