Johnny Marr Auctions Dozens of Smiths Guitars in London
Johnny Marr to auction off dozens of guitars, many of which graced the iconic tracks of The Smiths, is set to take place at Christie’s London in late September. The event will feature a curated selection of 80 instruments, including those used in the band’s most celebrated songs such as *This Charming Man*. These rare pieces, spanning decades of Marr’s career, are not just musical artifacts but also personal treasures that reflect the evolution of his sound and style. The auction aims to blend nostalgia with contemporary interest, offering fans and collectors a chance to own a part of Smiths history.
A Collection Rooted in Smiths Classics
Marr’s auction includes several guitars integral to The Smiths’ early work, with *This Charming Man* being a standout. The Rickenbacker 330 Jetglo, featured on the track, is estimated to fetch up to £80,000, making it one of the key highlights. This guitar also appeared on *What Difference Does It Make?* and *Still Ill*, further cementing its role in the band’s legacy. Johnny Marr to auction off dozens of guitars, including this one, represents a bittersweet farewell to the instruments that defined his formative years.
Among the most anticipated items is a 1971 Martin D-28, used in *There Is a Light That Never Goes Out*. This guitar, valued at £30,000 to £50,000, has become a symbol of the band’s emotive ballads and melancholic tone. The auction also features other guitars from The Smiths’ era, each carrying its own story and significance. Johnny Marr to auction off dozens of guitars, some of which were loaned to other artists, showcases the versatility and enduring influence of his work.
Behind the Guitars: Stories and Collaborations
The highest estimate in the auction is for a 1960 Cherry Red Gibson ES-355, which holds a special place in Marr’s career. Gifted by Seymour Stein, this guitar was used on *Top of the Pops* and became a staple in his studio sessions. Johnny Marr to auction off dozens of guitars, including this one, underscores the personal and professional connections that shaped his journey. Stein’s influence, as well as the craftsmanship of Roger Giffin, is evident in the instruments that have accompanied Marr’s music across decades.
Another notable piece is the “Comet Sparkle” edition of Marr’s signature Fender Jaguar, which he played in the James Bond film *No Time to Die*. This guitar, along with others in the auction, highlights Johnny Marr to auction off dozens of instruments that have transcended their original purpose. The auction also includes items from Marr’s post-Smiths projects, such as collaborations with Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds and the Cribs, demonstrating his continued impact on modern music.
Emotional Connection and Artistic Heritage
Marr’s decision to auction these guitars is as much about preserving his artistic heritage as it is about financial gain. The instruments, which have been part of his creative process for years, carry the weight of memories and milestones. Johnny Marr to auction off dozens of guitars is a way to share that history with a wider audience, allowing new generations to appreciate the legacy of The Smiths. The emotional resonance of these pieces is clear in Marr’s reflections on their significance.
“These guitars are more than just tools—they’re extensions of my voice and the stories I’ve told through music.”
Marr’s sentiment underscores the personal meaning behind the auction. While the focus is on The Smiths, the event also includes guitars from his later work, showing how his style has evolved. The inclusion of instruments from various stages of his career ensures a comprehensive look at Johnny Marr to auction off dozens of guitars, blending past and present in a single collection.
