Legendary Guitarists Share a Special Bond: Steve Lukather Plays Jeff Beck’s Iconic White Stratocaster
A Rare Opportunity to Play a Piece of Musical History
Steve Lukather, the renowned guitarist of Toto, has recently had the privilege of playing a loaned guitar that once belonged to the late Jeff Beck. This rare opportunity allowed Lukather to play a piece of musical history, as the guitar in question is none other than Beck’s iconic white Fender Stratocaster. The guitar has a distinctive reverse headstock and has been played by a select few, including John Mayer, who borrowed it for Dead and Company’s residency shows in June.
The Guitar’s Provenance
The guitar was built around 2014 by the Fender Custom Shop and was Beck’s main late-career guitar. It’s worth noting that Beck’s guitar tech and his wife, Sandra, have been sharing the guitar with other artists, with a long list of guitarists who have been invited to play it. Lukather was among the select few who were asked to play the guitar, and he did so during Toto’s homecoming show at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.
Lukather’s Experience Playing the Guitar
During the show, Lukather took the stage and introduced the guitar, explaining that it was a special occasion for him to play it. He joked that he wished playing the guitar would make him sound like Jeff Beck, but that it wouldn’t. After playing a seven-minute cover of Jimi Hendrix’s "Little Wing," Lukather cleared up the mystery behind the guitar loans, explaining that Beck’s wife and guitar tech brought the guitar out to other artists to put their love on it.
Beck’s Legacy Lives On
Jeff Beck’s passing in early 2023 was a significant loss for the music world, but his legacy lives on through his music and the many guitarists he inspired. Lukather’s experience playing Beck’s guitar is a testament to the guitarist’s enduring influence and the respect his peers have for his craft.
Conclusion
Steve Lukather’s opportunity to play Jeff Beck’s iconic white Stratocaster is a rare and special occasion that highlights the guitarist’s enduring legacy. The experience is a reminder of the power of music to bring people together and the respect that guitarists have for one another.
FAQs
Q: Who built the guitar?
A: The guitar was built around 2014 by the Fender Custom Shop.
Q: Who has played the guitar besides John Mayer and Steve Lukather?
A: The guitar’s tech and Beck’s wife, Sandra, have brought the guitar out to other artists, but the exact list of guitarists has not been publicly disclosed.
Q: Why is the guitar so special?
A: The guitar is special because it once belonged to Jeff Beck and has a distinctive reverse headstock. It’s also a rare opportunity for guitarists to play a piece of musical history.
Q: What is the significance of the guitar to Jeff Beck’s legacy?
A: The guitar is a symbol of Jeff Beck’s enduring legacy as a guitarist and his influence on the music world. It’s a reminder of his incredible talent and the respect his peers have for his craft.
Q: Will the guitar continue to be shared with other artists?
A: Yes, Beck’s wife and guitar tech have plans to continue sharing the guitar with other artists, and the list of guitarists who have been invited to play it is likely to grow.
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