Matthieu Lucas: the Visionary Behind Matt’s Guitar Shop
At the young age of 32, Matthieu Lucas has crafted a remarkable legacy in the world of music.
The passionate entrepreneur and guitarist has meticulously developed Matt’s Guitar Shop, a haven for musicians, attracting high-profile clients from around the globe.
Lucas reflects on the challenges he faced in the early stages of his journey. “Walking into a store as a newcomer, it felt like I was a child trying to discuss big investments with seasoned dealers,” he chuckles, reminiscing about the skepticism he encountered.
Despite the hurdles, the stunning collection of artist guitars that adorn the walls of his shop in Paris speaks volumes about his success. “Its a testament to the hard work and dedication that has gone into this venture,” he adds.
The Philosophy Behind Matt’s Guitar Shop
Lucas attributes his success to a unique marketing philosophy: “even the moast prestigious guitars should be played on stage.” This belief has made him a sought-after figure for artist guitars,with notable musicians like marcus King,Billie Joe Armstrong,and Myles Kennedy turning to him for their needs.
“I was inspired by the way banks and institutions would acquire Stradivarius violins and lend them to musicians,” he explains. “Guitars are meant to be shared and celebrated, and that’s why we frequently lend ours for live performances.”
From Passion to Profession
Reflecting on the origins of Matt’s Guitar Shop, Lucas shares, “It all began when I was just 15. I was more into video games until a friend’s father introduced me to AC/DC. I was skeptical at first, but Angus Young’s guitar work ignited my passion.”
Within six months,he found himself at an AC/DC concert,and soon after,he was purchasing his first guitar. “I became obsessed with collecting guitars and learning about the industry,” he recalls.
His journey led him to various guitar shops in Paris, where he honed his skills in buying and selling instruments. “I started in a small apartment, and after a few years, I was able to secure a proper location for the shop,” he says proudly.
Overcoming early Challenges
Lucas faced skepticism as a young entrepreneur, but he gradually built a network of trusted contacts. “Coming from a non-musical family, I relied heavily on my passion and the connections I made along the way,” he notes.
One pivotal moment was when he traded for a 1964 ES-345 guitar from Craig Ross. “I didn’t have the funds at the time, but I promised to return after selling some guitars in France. It was a leap of faith,” he recalls.
High-Demand Artist Guitars
When asked about the most sought-after guitars, Lucas mentions a diverse range. “John Frusciante’s 1961 ES-335 and Paul Kossoff’s 1955 ‘Black Beauty’ are among the top contenders,” he states. “We also have Cliff Williams’ bass from AC/DC, which has traveled the world.”
Evolution of the Showroom Vision
Lucas reflects on how perceptions have shifted since he opened his shop. ”Initially, I faced skepticism, but now I proudly participate in high-profile auctions, showcasing the importance of guitars in music history,” he explains.
He emphasizes that owning an artist’s guitar is akin to possessing a piece of their legacy. “These instruments are not just tools; they are artifacts that tell stories,” he adds.
The Impact of the Jim Irsay Auction
The Jim Irsay auction was a landmark event, showcasing an unparalleled collection of artist guitars. “People are beginning to recognise the value of these instruments, whether for investment or personal enjoyment,” Lucas notes.
He believes that the marketing strategies employed by auction houses like Christie’s have played a crucial role in driving prices up. “When buyers are gathered in one room, it creates a competitive atmosphere that can lead to record-breaking sales,” he explains.
Understanding the Market Dynamics
Lucas observes that the demographic of guitar buyers is shifting. “Most of my customers are between 25 and 50, representing a new generation that is passionate about guitars,” he shares.
He cites an example of a friend who recently acquired Jerry Garcia’s “Tiger” guitar, highlighting the emotional connection buyers have with these instruments. “It’s about more than just the guitar; it’s about the experience and the memories associated with it,” he adds.
Trends in Guitar collecting
lucas notes a growing interest in guitars from bands like Green Day, as their legacy matures. “As fans age, they gain the means to invest in memorabilia from their favorite artists,” he explains.
He also expresses curiosity about the potential auction prices for legendary guitars from artists like Keith Richards and Jimmy Page. “I wouldn’t be surprised if we see guitars selling for $20 to $40 million in the near future,” he predicts.
Advice for New Buyers
For those entering the vintage guitar market,Lucas advises thorough research on provenance. “Understanding the history and authenticity of an instrument is crucial,” he emphasizes.
He recounts a personal experience with Steve Jones’ guitar, where meticulous checks were necessary to confirm its authenticity. “It’s all about ensuring you’re making a wise investment,” he adds.
What Makes a Guitar Truly Collectible?
According to Lucas, the more history and provenance a guitar has, the more valuable it becomes. “A guitar played on stage by a legendary artist carries a story that enhances its worth,” he explains.
He challenges the notion that modifications detract from value, arguing that they often add a personal touch that makes the instrument unique. ”A guitar’s journey is what makes it special,” he concludes.
Addressing Criticism of High Auction prices
Lucas acknowledges the criticism surrounding high auction prices but believes it reflects a broader trend in the collectible market. “This phenomenon isn’t new; it’s seen in sports and the arts as well,” he states.
He emphasizes that the rich will always seek unique pieces of history, and the guitar market is no exception. “If someone is willing to pay a premium for a piece of music history, that’s their prerogative,” he adds.
memorable Moments on Stage
One of Lucas’ proudest moments was when Myles kennedy played Jeff Buckley’s guitar at L’Olympia in Paris. “It was a culmination of months of planning, and the symbolism was profound,” he recalls.
Another unforgettable experience was seeing Craig Ross perform with jeff Beck’s guitar. “If you had told my younger self that I would witness this, I wouldn’t have believed it,” he reflects.
