Chuck Berry Stage Played Guitar at The Music Locker

Chuck Berry Stage Played Guitar at The Music Locker

Chuck Berry Stage Played Guitar at The Music Locker

Have you ever wondered what my favourite find has been at The Music Locker?

I’m often asked this question. My initial thoughts would always be around vintage amplifiers like a 1965 Marshall Bluesbreaker, the first ever Kitchen-Marshall PA amplifier, or even a stupidly early Park 4×12 (I’m more into amps as you know).

But, I couldn’t miss this one…

I’ve waited until now to officially announce it, having put it straight to auction at Gardiner Houlgate – auction page here. I saw this pop up on the news a few times over the last few months – in fact my Grandparents even told me about this guitar they’d seen on the news!

It is an original 1964 Gibson Firebird stage played by Chuck Berry. A single family owner from new until I purchased it last year.

History

The guitar came directly from the family of Terry Clemson (known as Terry Gibson), who was an incredibly renowned guitarist, playing with names such as Gene Vincent, Chuck Berry, and Bo Diddley along with his own bands including The Downliners Sect (signed to Columbia and command high prices for their records), and Hellraisers. The beauty has had only one owner since new. I recently acquired this from the wife of Terry after his passing in 2020.

This guitar was purchased by Terry and was originally sunburst. Pictures of the guitar in its original form can be seen alongside Gene Vincent. Then sometime between then and 1972, it was refinished in black.

The guitar can be seen in video footage and picture form during a stadium tour and also played by Chuck Berry at the legendary London Rock and Roll Show in 1972 (see video below at 1:16:15) where Chuck was passed this guitar by Terry himself who opened and closed the show. I believe even the strap included was the one used by Chuck with this guitar. It has been kept like this since then.

This one went to auction back in March 2023. Luke was truly incredible with the process in getting this to the new owner.

I feel honestly blessed to have been a part of the storyline on this one!

British rock and roll band The Houseshakers at Wembley Stadium in London for the upcoming London Rock and Roll Show, UK, 4th August 1972. Lead guitarist Terry Clemson (aka Terry Gibson) is on the left. (Photo by Evening Standard/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

LONDON – 1st JANUARY: The Houseshakers featuring vocalist Graham Fenton (3rd from left) perform live on stage at the Roundhouse in London in 1972. (Photo by Fin Costello/Redferns)