Eric Johnson Discusses teh Journey of Guitar Ownership: Regrets, discoveries, and Preferences
This month in our feature “Bought & Sold,” legendary guitarist eric Johnson shares his insights on the world of guitars-reflecting on instruments he wishes he had kept, the gems he’s found over the years, and the ongoing debate between humbuckers and single-coils.
The First Guitar Purchase: A Memorable Investment
When asked about his first significant guitar purchase, Johnson reminisces about a ’63 ES-335, reminiscent of the one Eric Clapton played during Cream’s iconic farewell concert in 1968. He recalls discovering it in a music shop for around $300 during his youth.
Although he had a ’66 335 that his father helped him acquire at age 12, it was this later find that truly captivated him. At the time,he was unaware of Clapton’s connection to the model,having always associated him with a painted SG or a Les Paul. Johnson’s admiration for the 335 blossomed independently, influenced by artists like The Ventures and later, legends such as Jimi Hendrix and B.B. King.
Recent Acquisitions: The Joy of New Instruments
fast forward to the present, and Johnson recently added a reissue Fender ’54 Stratocaster to his collection. Manufactured in the early 2000s, this American Vintage Reissue has quickly become a favourite. he appreciates its quality and has made some personal modifications, including upgrading the bridge pickup to a DiMarzio HS-2 for enhanced performance.
Unforgettable Bargains: The Thrill of the Find
Reflecting on his most remarkable gear finds,Johnson mentions his original ’54 Strat,affectionately named ‘Virginia,’ which he purchased for just $175 in the late ’70s. Back then, vintage guitars where more accessible, often found in stores for under $500. Today,the market has changed dramatically,with prices skyrocketing for such iconic instruments.
Regrets of the Past: Letting Go of Treasures
Johnson candidly admits to having sold several guitars he now deeply regrets,including a ’54 Strat that he let go after its electronics were damaged. Instead of preserving it, he sought replacements, only to find himself disappointed with subsequent purchases.He emphasizes that not every vintage guitar guarantees the perfect sound, as personal experience frequently enough reveals their limitations in a live setting.
Shifting Perspectives on Guitar originality
Over the years,Johnson’s views on guitar originality have evolved. he no longer prioritizes owning strictly original instruments, recognizing that some of the most magical guitars may not be the most collectible. He recalls a time when he sold a stunning 1960 Sunburst Les Paul to fund a ’58 black Strat, a decision he now questions.
Advice for Aspiring Guitarists: Focus on Playability
For those looking to invest in guitars, Johnson advises against being overly influenced by a guitar’s pedigree. He believes that while some instruments may be valuable as investments, they can hinder creativity if they don’t inspire the player.Instead, he encourages musicians to seek guitars that facilitate their artistic expression.
Exploring Gear: The Joy of Revelation
Johnson enjoys browsing for gear, whether online or in music stores, always on the lookout for instruments that might enhance his sound. He shares an anecdote about borrowing a worn ’55 Strat that, despite its appearance, produced amazing tones, highlighting the importance of sound over aesthetics.
Choosing between Guitars and Amps: A Tough Decision
“The meaning of a great amp is frequently enough underestimated,” Johnson states, emphasizing that he would prefer a quality amplifier paired with a more affordable guitar over the opposite. He values straightforward amps that deliver excellent sound without excessive complexity.
Humbuckers vs. Single-Coils: The Ultimate Choice
If forced to choose between humbuckers and single-coils for the rest of his career, Johnson leans towards single-coils for their versatility. He appreciates the unique tones they can produce, especially with the right overdrive, while acknowledging the limitations of humbuckers in achieving certain sounds.
Eric’s Go-To Rig: A Blend of classic and Modern
Johnson’s rig features a variety of amplifiers, including vintage black-panel Deluxe Reverbs for clean tones and a modified Bandmaster Reverb for dirtier sounds. he also incorporates a Marshall setup for heavier tones,showcasing his diverse sonic palette. His guitar collection includes a signature Fender model, the ’54 reissue, and a ’63 or ’64 SG, alongside acoustic options like a Martin D-35.
