Joe Bonamassa and Martin Guitars: A New era of signature Acoustics
Martin Guitars has just unveiled two exceptional acoustic guitars bearing teh signature of renowned guitarist Joe Bonamassa, drawing inspiration from his beloved 1937 Martin 00-18 shade-top model.
Introducing the New Models
The two new offerings are the 00-18 Joe Bonamassa, priced at $3,999.99, and the more budget-amiable 00-10E Retro Joe Bonamassa, available for $1,299.99. Both models can be purchased through authorized Martin dealers and on the official website, martinguitar.com.
Bonamassa’s Acoustic Roots
While Joe Bonamassa is celebrated as a leading figure in the blues-rock genre, his passion for acoustic guitar is equally profound. He acquired the original shade-top from John Shults at True Vintage guitar, who discovered it in ohio and purchased it from the family of the original owner. Bonamassa humorously noted in a Facebook post that the price tag of $45 was still attached.
Craftsmanship and Design
The new Martin guitars showcase a blend of craftsmanship and accessibility. The 00-18 Joe Bonamassa is meticulously handcrafted in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, while the 00-10E Retro model is produced at Martin’s facility in Navojoa, Mexico. Both guitars feature a custom 1937-style sunburst finish and replicate the top wear of Bonamassa’s original instrument, giving them a vintage aesthetic that resonates with music lovers.
A Milestone Collaboration
this marks Bonamassa’s second collaboration with Martin, following the release of the 2024 Martin 000-45 joe Bonamassa Limited Edition. Reflecting on this achievement, Bonamassa expressed his disbelief at having two signature guitars, stating, “If you told me when I was a kid that I’d be sitting here in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, with not one, but two signature guitars, I’d be like, ‘You’re out of your mind.’” He added, “This is the pinnacle for me, as you’re going, ‘It’s a Martin!’”
Specifications and Features
The 00-18 Joe Bonamassa features a solid spruce top paired with genuine mahogany back and sides, delivering a warm and resonant sound.Its compact 00 body design ensures balanced tone and cozy playability, making it ideal for various styles, including blues, folk, and fingerstyle. The guitar is equipped with Golden Era scalloped X-bracing, which enhances its dynamic response, while the faux tortoise binding and custom sunburst finish reflect the character of Bonamassa’s original pre-war guitar.
bonamassa personally tested an early prototype in the studio, comparing it to his original 1937 Martin. “When we put the mic in front of it, my producer said, ‘I like that one better,’” he recalled, highlighting the guitar’s extraordinary sound quality. Each 00-18 Joe Bonamassa comes with a hardshell case for protection.
Accessible Performance with the 00-10E Retro
The 00-10E Retro Joe Bonamassa, crafted in Navojoa, features a solid spruce top and solid sapele back and sides, providing a balanced tone and focused projection. Its design mirrors the unique character of Bonamassa’s original guitar, complete with a custom sunburst finish and replicated top wear. The scalloped spruce X-bracing ensures a responsive acoustic voice, while the Performing Artist neck with a high-performance taper offers smooth playability.
This model is equipped with Martin E1 electronics, featuring volume, tone, and phase controls, along with a built-in chromatic tuner, making it perfect for live performances, studio sessions, or casual playing at home. Bonamassa personally approved the onboard electronics after testing them in a live setting. Each 00-10E Retro Joe Bonamassa also includes a softshell case.
