Joe Bonamassa’s Latest vintage Treasure: Rory Gallagher’s Iconic Rangemaster
In the world of vintage music gear, Joe Bonamassa’s name is synonymous with remarkable finds. His latest acquisition, however, is generating meaningful buzz among fans and collectors alike.Recently, Bonamassa announced on Instagram that he has officially taken ownership of Rory gallagher’s cherished Number 1 Rangemaster treble booster, a piece of equipment that has past importance in the music industry.
This extraordinary gift came from Gallagher’s family, who had been entrusted with the care of his legendary 1961 Stratocaster until last year. Bonamassa expressed his gratitude, stating he is “incredibly honored” to receive such a meaningful item from the Gallagher lineage.
While Bonamassa has faced challenges in his quest for vintage gear—having spent 15 years searching for Lowell george’s Dumble Super Overdive Special—this recent acquisition felt more like a leisurely stroll. “There are moments in my life when I need to step back and pinch myself,” he shared. “Tonight, just before our performance at the Beacon Theater in New York, my friend Daniel Gallagher, with his father Donal’s blessing, presented me with Rory’s Number 1 Rangemaster.”
As a keen gear enthusiast, Bonamassa had noticed the absence of the Rangemaster during the recent auction of Gallagher’s equipment. While Gallagher’s iconic Fender Stratocaster was the star of the auction,this essential component of his rig was conspicuously missing,as the Gallagher family had other plans for it.
“I realized it was missing from the auction a few months ago, and I am truly amazed that it is indeed now mine,” Bonamassa continued. “We plugged it in, and it transformed that tweed Vibrolux into the sound of Gallagher’s live album, ‘Irish Tour ’74’. I feel so privileged; you’ll see it on stage again in Cork! I am humbled and grateful.”
The Rangemaster’s Legacy
For those unfamiliar, the Rangemaster is a treble booster that, when used with a Vox AC30 amplifier, became a cornerstone of Gallagher’s enviable guitar tone. This very pedal is also credited with inspiring Brian May to adopt a similar setup, which has as become a hallmark of his sound.
Young Brian May once snuck into London’s renowned Marquee Club after a Gallagher performance with Taste, where he seized the opportunity to ask Gallagher about his signature sound. “He told me, ‘It’s simple, I have the AC30 and this little box, and I turn it up, and it sings for me,’” may recalled. The next day, he purchased two secondhand AC30s for just £30 each, setting the stage for his iconic sound.
This combination of May’s Red special guitar, a Vox AC30, and a treble booster has been the foundation of Queen’s extensive discography, showcasing the lasting impact of Gallagher’s influence.
Bonamassa’s Tribute to gallagher
looking ahead, Bonamassa is gearing up for a series of special tribute concerts in Cork, Ireland, dedicated to Rory Gallagher. He has described this endeavor as “the most significant challenge of my musical career.”
Prior to the highly publicized Gallagher auction, Bonamassa had the opportunity to play some of Gallagher’s other guitars, including a Fender Esquire and another Stratocaster. He voiced his hopes for the future of Gallagher’s beloved instruments,emphasizing their purpose as tools for creating music rather than mere collectibles.
“The worst-case scenario,” he remarked, “is if someone just hangs the guitar on the wall to boast to their wealthy friends about their purchase. These instruments are meant to make music.”
After advocating for the 1961 Stratocaster to remain in Ireland following its sale, Bonamassa was thrilled when it sold for an astonishing $1.16 million and was subsequently donated to the National museum of Ireland, ensuring its legacy continues to inspire future generations.
