The Rock & Roll Pop Culture Sports Auction August 2021

Lot #11:

Chris Cornell Owned & “Badmotorfinger” Recording Used Les Paul Deluxe Guitar

Soundgarden lead singer and guitarist Chris Cornell owned and played this Les Paul Deluxe guitar during 1990-1992, and most importantly played it during the recording of the famous “Badmotorfinger” album. The guitar comes from famed guitar tech Kevin “Batty” Walsh, who worked with Soundgarden as their main guitar tech for most of their 1992 tours. Walsh was first brought into the Soundgarden camp to help out the issue of Cornell’s guitars “cutting out” which led to Cornell smashing his guitars at the beginning of shows. As an experienced guitar tech, Walsh identified the problem as loose battery connections in the radio pack of the connectors, and 9-volt battery clips would solve the problem. Afterwards Soundgarden had a great tour in 1992, and after the tour ended, as a farewell gift for taking care of him and all of Cornell’s equipment on tour, Cornell gifted Walsh his Les Paul Deluxe, Cherry Sunburst, Serial number: 82030518. Cornell told him he used the guitar on recordings exclusively, most notably during the “Badmotorfinger” recording sessions because he didn't like the sound of the guitar for stage used and he didn't want to break the Les Paul. The guitar is in great condition, and an incredible example of a guitar with such illustrious history to the beginnings of Soundgarden. Comes with a letter of provenance from Kevin “Batty” Walsh and a Gotta Have Rock & Roll Certificate of Authenticity.