The Legendary Journey of Joe Perry’s ’59 Les Paul: From Aerosmith to Slash adn Back
Joe Perry, the iconic guitarist of Aerosmith, has not onyl made waves with his music but has also earned a reputation as a passionate guitar collector. His impressive collection features a range of instruments, including coveted ’59 Les Pauls, a custom Gibson B.B.King Lucille adorned with his wife Billie’s likeness, and the Build X-100 Blade Runner, which gained fame in the Walk This Way music video. Among these treasures, one guitar stands out: a remarkable 1959 Gibson Les Paul that served as Perry’s primary instrument during the 1970s, before it made its way into the hands of Slash.
A Guitar with a Rich History
In a recent feature in Guitar World, Perry shares insights into his collection and recounts the fascinating journey of this particular guitar. “It changed hands several times before I found it again,” he recalls. “I stumbled upon it at a reasonable price-around $2,500,though I can’t recall the exact amount.”
Regrettably, Perry had to part with this beloved instrument after leaving Aerosmith in 1979 amid critically important internal conflicts during the recording of Night in the Ruts.”I needed some cash for the holidays,” he explains, “and I ended up selling it for $4,500.”
The Quest to Reclaim a Treasure
When Aerosmith reunited in 1984 and signed a lucrative deal with Geffen Records,Perry felt it was time to track down his long-lost Les Paul. However, by then, the value of vintage Gibsons had skyrocketed. “I started reaching out to my techs and making calls, but the prices kept climbing every few months. I was persistent to reclaim some of my old guitars,” he reflects.
To his surprise, he didn’t have to look far. His bandmate, Brad whitford, had the key to the mystery. ”Brad said, ‘I know where it is,’” Perry remembers. “He opened up Guitar Player and there it was-a feature on Slash’s guitar collection, and right in the center was my ’59 Les Paul.”
The Challenge of Reacquisition
Owning such a prized guitar made Slash reluctant to part with it, even for its original owner. “we had become friends, and when I asked him about it, he was hesitant.I offered to buy it back at any price,but he just said,’Please don’t ask me,’” Perry shares.
As time passed, the situation became strained. “He started avoiding my calls because he knew I was going to bring it up,” Perry admits. “I realized I was risking our friendship over this guitar. Eventually, I told him I wouldn’t ask again; it was his guitar now, and I didn’t want to jeopardize our relationship.”
A Birthday Surprise
Years later, just before turning 50, Perry received an unforgettable surprise during a birthday celebration. “I had asked Cheap Trick to perform at my party, and as I was getting ready to join them on stage at a resturant Steven [Tyler] and I owned, my guitar tech approached me,” he recalls. “He said, ‘Slash wanted me to give you this,’ and it was the ’59 Les Paul. The room fell silent. I was completely blown away. That was it-I had it back.”
Looking Ahead
In addition to sharing this incredible story, Perry recently spoke with Guitar World about Aerosmith’s collaboration with Yungblud on a new EP and the gear he utilized during the recording sessions. For more insights from Perry, along with interviews featuring alter Bridge’s mark Tremonti and Myles Kennedy, and a tribute to the legendary Bob Weir, be sure to check out issue 602 of Guitar World available at Magazines Direct.
From Stage to Stage: The Epic journey of Joe Perry’s ’59 Les Paul to Slash and Back Again!
The Legendary Guitar: A Brief Overview
Joe perry,the renowned guitarist of Aerosmith,is not only celebrated for his electrifying performances but also for his extraordinary collection of guitars. Among these, his 1959 Gibson les Paul stands out as a true icon. This instrument has a rich history, having been a crucial part of Perry’s sound during the 1970s before it found its way into the hands of fellow rock legend, Slash.
The Journey Begins: Joe perry’s Connection to the ’59 les Paul
Perry acquired his ’59 Les Paul during the height of Aerosmith’s fame. Known for its stunning sunburst finish and unparalleled sound quality,this guitar became Perry’s go-to instrument for live performances and studio recordings. Here are some key highlights of its early journey:
- Acquisition: Perry purchased the guitar for approximately $2,500, a modest price for such a coveted instrument.
- Signature Sound: The ’59 Les Paul contributed to the distinctive sound of Aerosmith’s hits, including “Dream On” and “Sweet Emotion.”
- Iconic Performances: This guitar was featured in numerous live performances, solidifying its status as a rock ‘n’ roll legend.
The Transition: from Joe Perry to Slash
In 1979, amid internal conflicts within Aerosmith, Perry was forced to sell his beloved Les Paul. This marked the beginning of its journey away from its original owner. The guitar eventually found its way into the hands of slash, the legendary guitarist of Guns N’ roses.
Slash’s Ownership and Impact
During his time with the guitar, Slash made it a centerpiece of his own sound. Here are some notable aspects of the guitar’s time with Slash:
- Signature Style: Slash used the ’59 Les Paul to create some of the moast memorable riffs in rock history, including “Sweet Child O’ mine.”
- Iconic Appearances: The guitar was prominently featured in music videos and live performances, further enhancing its legendary status.
- Connection to Fans: Slash’s ownership of the guitar helped bridge the gap between generations of rock fans, making it a symbol of rock heritage.
The Reunion: How Joe Perry Got His Guitar Back
Years later, after Aerosmith’s reunion in 1984, Perry began the quest to reclaim his beloved Les Paul. This journey was filled with challenges and emotional moments.
The Search for the ’59 Les Paul
Perry’s determination to find his guitar was unwavering. Here are some key points from his search:
- Networking: Perry reached out to guitar techs and industry contacts to track down the instrument.
- Price Surge: By the time he began his search, the value of vintage guitars had skyrocketed, complicating his efforts.
- Brad Whitford’s Finding: Perry’s bandmate, Brad whitford, played a crucial role in locating the guitar when he spotted it in a magazine feature on Slash’s collection.
The Emotional Reunion
After years of searching, perry’s dream came true during a surprise birthday festivity. Here’s how it unfolded:
- Birthday Surprise: As Perry prepared to perform with Cheap Trick at his 50th birthday party, he received an unexpected gift from Slash.
- Heartfelt Moment: The moment Perry saw his ’59 Les Paul again was filled with emotion, marking a notable reunion between the guitarist and his iconic instrument.
Benefits of Owning a Vintage Guitar
Owning a vintage guitar like the ’59 Les Paul comes with numerous benefits:
- Investment Value: Vintage guitars frequently enough appreciate in value over time, making them a sound investment.
- Unique Sound: The craftsmanship and materials used in vintage guitars contribute to a unique sound that is hard to replicate.
- Historical Meaning: Owning a piece of music history can be incredibly rewarding for collectors and musicians alike.
Practical Tips for Guitar Collectors
If you’re considering starting your own guitar collection, here are some practical tips:
- Research: Understand the market and the specific models you’re interested in.
- Condition Matters: Always assess the condition of the guitar, as it significantly affects value.
- Network: Connect with other collectors and musicians to gain insights and find potential purchases.
Case Study: The Legacy of Joe Perry’s ’59 Les Paul
The journey of Joe Perry’s ’59 Les Paul serves as a remarkable case study in the world of music and guitar collecting.Here are some key takeaways:
| Aspect |
Details |
| Original Owner |
joe Perry |
| Current Owner |
Joe Perry (returned from slash) |
| Year of Manufacture |
1959 |
| Notable Songs |
“Dream On,” “Sweet Child O’ Mine” |
| Market Value |
Varies, often exceeding $100,000 |
First-Hand experience: Joe Perry’s Reflections
In interviews, Perry has often reflected on the emotional connection he has with his ’59 Les Paul. He describes it as more than just a guitar; it’s a part of his musical identity. The instrument has witnessed countless performances and has been a companion through the highs and lows of his career.
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