George Harrison’s Futurama electric guitar, used in the early days of The Beatles, could fetch a historic price when it goes up for auction next month.
This instrument, with its characteristic sunburst finish (type of guitar in terms of its color), was part of the legendary British band’s beginnings and was played by Harrison in iconic performances at the Cavern Club in Liverpool, during tours in Germany and in the band’s first recordings for the Polydor Records label, during the 1960s. The auction of this unique object arouses great interest, as it represents a key piece of rock history and the musical evolution of The Beatles.
The Futurama guitar, described as “one of the holy grails of historic Beatles guitars” according to Reuters, is valued between $600,000 and $800,000. This value reflects its significance in Harrison’s career and the development of The Beatles’ sound, as well as the importance of their history.
It was purchased in a music store in Liverpool, the band’s hometown, and accompanied Harrison for more than 300 performances, in addition to being part of the first official recordings. Its potential sale price at Julien’s Auctions in Nashville, which will be held from November 20 to 22, could exceed initial expectations.
The guitar will not only be auctioned, but will previously be exhibited for the public in different places of great relevance to the history of The Beatles. The first stop of this exhibition will be at The Beatles Story museum in Liverpool, where it will be available for fans and collectors to admire between October 3 and 17.
This exhibition will allow visitors to see up close an instrument that played an important role in the early years of the legendary group. After its stay in Liverpool, it is expected that the guitar will continue its tour of other European museums, but this has not yet been confirmed.
Guitar aspects
In 1964, Harrison decided to donate the guitar to a rock magazine. He offered the instrument as a prize for a contest. However, the winner preferred to receive a cash sum and left the guitar in the hands of the publication’s editor.
Harrison had called the guitar “very difficult” to play, but was fascinated by its design, which he called “futuristic.” Despite its complexities, he stressed to a journalist that the instrument had “a great sound,” Reuters reported.
As for the sound, the official auction site added: “Although it was not a true Stratocaster, the Futurama had its own unique charm. “His bright, vibrant tone perfectly complemented the rock and roll sound of the early Beatles.”
He then added: “The versatility of the guitar allowed Harrison to experiment with different sounds and textures, which contributed to the band’s evolving musical style.”
Furthermore, he expanded: “The sonic imprint of Futurama can be heard on several of The Beatles’ early recordings, including their first single, ‘My Bonnie’, released under the pseudonym ‘Tony Sheridan and The Beat Brothers’.”
“The distinctive guitar tone is particularly prominent on the instrumental track ‘Cry for a Shadow’, a Lennon and Harrison composition that showcases Harrison’s burgeoning guitar skills, further highlighting Futurama’s distinctive character,” closed the Julien’s Auctions page on its website.
George Harrison’s career
George Harrison was born on February 25, 1943 in Liverpool and was known as the “silent Beatles” or “quiet Beatles.” He was the lead guitarist of The Beatles and a key songwriter, with hits such as “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” “Here Comes the Sun” and “Something.” His interest in Indian music and spirituality marked his career.
After the Beatles broke up, he released his successful solo album, “All Things Must Pass,” and organized the Concert for Bangladesh in 1971. He also formed the supergroup Traveling Wilburys.
George Harrison passed away in 2001, aged 58, leaving behind a legacy as an innovative musician.
#guitar #George #Harrison #Beatles #auctioned #worth #Diario #Página
