This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/26/2024
The Beatles John Lennon, Paul McCartney & George Harrison Used Burns Prototype 8-String Lap Steel Guitar - Jim Burns Personal 1/1 Lap Steel Guitar.
The guitar offered here was used to try and persuade rockstars into using the Burns guitar brand. It was in 1963 when Jim Burns attempted to get the Beatles to play his brand of guitars. This was one of the guitars used at a secret jam session in Louise Farrell’s basement. John, Paul and George liked Burns very much but weren't willing to give up their Gretsch, Hofner and Gibson which had obviously served them extremely well.
All three main Beatles actually played this guitar as Jim Burns attempted to get the Beatles to switch to his guitar brand. Even though it ultimately did not work, this guitar stands out as an interesting piece of Beatles history.
Provenance: From Jim Burns Personal Collection.
A Burns lap steel is the stuff of legend, it's long been argued that James Ormston Burns never made a lap steel, in fact he made two prototypes, he kept them both for his personal use (see pic), the guitars never went into commercial production, Jim used two 8-strings side by side, each with a different tuning.
An amazing guitar.
Authentication: Gotta Have Rock and Roll Certificate of Authenticity.
This lot has a Reserve Price that has not been met.