This week on Guitar Gear Gems, we look at Eddie Van Halen’s Lost Canadian Flag guitar, which resurfaced after three decades. Next is the Rory Gallagher Collection featuring his famous battered 1961 Fender Stratocaster, up for auction at Bonhams London. Finally, we look at the revamped Aguilar Tone Hammer and AG bass amps.
Van Halen’s “Lost” Canadian Flag guitar
A legendary piece of music history has been rediscovered: Eddie Van Halen’s long-lost 1993 Ernie Ball Music Man signature guitar, adorned with the Canadian flag. Played by the iconic guitarist himself during a Canada Day concert, the instrument has been unseen for 31 years.
The guitar is coming to auction at Julien’s Auction on November 21-22, 2024.
Crafted in March 1993, the guitar’s initial design remains unknown, but it underwent a patriotic transformation before the concert. It has a maple neck, basswood body, and signature DiMarzio humbuckers.
Canada Day
On July 1st, 1993, at a Canada Day concert in Molson Park, Barrie, Ontario, Van Halen surprised the audience by unveiling the Canadian Flag guitar during the encore. This history-making moment saw him playing the instrument while performing iconic tracks like “Jump,” “You Really Got Me,” and “Rockin’ in the Free World.”
Grainy concert footage captures the guitar’s impactful appearance. The rediscovery offers a unique perspective on a forgotten chapter of rock history alongside the guitar itself.
City of Hope
The guitar comes with a black hardshell case, a concert ticket, and photographs. Eddie also signed the guitar, so its provenance is perfect for collectors.
Proceeds from the auction of this historic guitar will benefit the City of Hope, a leading cancer research and treatment centre, honouring Eddie Van Halen’s memory and his fight against the disease.
Rory Gallagher Collection
The Rory Gallagher Collection, featuring his instantly recognizable 1961 Fender Stratocaster, is set to hit the auction block at Bonhams London on October 17, 2024. Offered directly by the Gallagher family, the sale will have nearly 150 instruments, amplifiers, and accessories owned by Rory.
Rory Gallagher’s Battered Strat
The star of the collection is Gallagher’s legendary 1961 Fender Stratocaster, estimated to fetch a staggering £700,000 – £1,000,000. This well-worn guitar, purchased by Gallagher on credit in 1963, is believed to be the first Stratocaster ever brought to Ireland.
“Rory Gallagher’s 1961 Fender Stratocaster is one of the most recognizable guitars in the world. This guitar was with Rory throughout his entire career, and it’s safe to say it played a huge role in shaping his legacy as one of the greatest guitarists ever. We are incredibly honored to be entrusted with this iconic piece and the Gallagher family’s extensive collection.” – Claire Tole-Moir, Head of Bonhams Popular Culture department.
Dónal Gallagher, Rory’s brother and former manager, shared his reason for bringing the collection to auction: “After nearly 30 years, I believe it’s time for others to experience Rory’s incredible instruments. This is a difficult decision, but I hope it will further cement Rory’s legacy and allow more people to enjoy the music he created with these very instruments.”
If you want to emulate this iconic guitar, the Custom Shop Fender Rory Gallagher Relic Strat is a slightly cheaper alternative.
Aguilar Next-Gen Tone Hammer and AG Series
Aguilar Amplification has unveiled its next generation of Tone Hammer and AG Series bass amplifiers, with some significant updates to the two ranges for 2024.
Available in either 500-watt or 700-watt formats, these two series have plenty of power for gigging and flexibility for studio work.
New Features:
- Aguilar Cabinet Suite: This software allows bassists to load custom cabinet Impulse Responses (IRs) for personalized tone shaping and emulation, accessible via XLR and headphone outputs.
- Dual XLR Outputs & Enhanced Connectivity: Achieve a tailored monitor mix with cabinet IRs while sending a separate pre-EQ signal to the front of the house for optimal sound for both performer and audience. Expand your setup with auxiliary input, headphone output options, and dedicated mix controls for versatile practice and performance.
- Upgraded Power Sections: Improved power handling with the 2.67-ohm load capability is now available in both Tone Hammer and AG 500 models. Universal mains compatibility ensures seamless voltage adaptation for international gigs.
The new Tone Hammer and AG Series amplifiers are available now at Thomann
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