Own a Legend: mike Bloomfield’s 1966 Fender Telecaster Now Available!
A remarkable 1966 Fender Telecaster, onc strummed by the legendary blues rock guitarist Mike Bloomfield, has made its way to the market at Carter Vintage in Nashville, TN.
Carter Vintage is renowned for its impressive collection of iconic instruments, including a Gibson Collector’s Edition of Kirk Hammett’s famed “Greeny” 1959 Les Paul, priced at $65,000. This Telecaster is poised to join the ranks of standout pieces in their inventory.
The Story Behind the Guitar
Bloomfield was known to have two Telecasters from this era. One retained its original blonde finish but was later modified into a left-handed guitar. The second, which is now available for purchase, features a striking custom blue paint job, reportedly created by the sister of Bloomfield’s then-girlfriend.
Both guitars played a notable role in Bloomfield’s rise to fame during the late 1960s and early 1970s,a period marked by his unique blend of psychedelic blues rock. He was not only a solo artist but also served as Bob Dylan’s guitarist during the pivotal 1965 Newport Folk Festival performance.
Additionally, Bloomfield was instrumental in the early success of the Paul Butterfield Blues Band, showcasing his dynamic interplay with the band’s harmonica player. After departing from the group in 1967, he formed The Electric Flag and later collaborated with producer Al Kooper, with whom he had previously worked on Dylan’s classic track, Like A rolling Stone.
A Unique performance History
this distinctive Telecaster was prominently featured during The Electric Flag’s appearance on the 1974 episode of Don Kirshner’s Rock concert. Later that same year, Bloomfield was scheduled to perform at the Cave Club in Vancouver but mysteriously vanished before the show concluded. The club owner, understandably upset, was appeased when Bloomfield offered the two guitars he had left behind as compensation—one being the blue Telecaster and the othre a 1959 Les Paul.
The Telecaster eventually found its way into the hands of Bruce Lopez, the bassist for the cover band Butch Whacks and the Glass Packs, who purchased it for just $125. After this transaction, the guitar was reportedly stashed away in a closet for decades, only to be rediscovered following Lopez’s recent passing.
Specifications and Restoration
This Telecaster boasts an alder body, a maple neck, and a Brazilian rosewood fretboard. During its restoration, the bridge pickup was rewound to its original specifications due to rust accumulated from years of neglect. Aside from this adjustment, the guitar remains in the same condition as when Bloomfield last played it.
Price and Availability
If you’re interested in adding this piece of music history to your collection, it can be yours for $235,000, complete with a hard case that includes the original bridge pickup coil.
for more details, visit Carter Vintage and sieze the opportunity to own a piece of rock history!
