#London #United Kingdom #Gibson ES-5N #T-Bone Walker #Regent Sounds

Regent Sounds Sets the Stage for Guitar History

The iconic Regent Sounds guitar shop, located on the legendary Denmark Street in London, has recently reopened its doors, marking a significant moment in the realm of music and guitar culture. As a part of this revival, the shop is launching its new Vintage Lounge with an exclusive online auction, featuring none other than T-Bone Walker's legendary 1949 Gibson ES-5N guitar, affectionately referred to as "the guitar that started it all."

The Auction and Its Significance

This unique online auction is set to make waves in the music community, running from February 23 to March 31 on Reverb, which is widely recognized as the world's largest online marketplace for musical instruments. This five-week event celebrates the rich history of Regent Sounds and aims to write a new chapter in the story of guitar evolution. With every chord strummed on this guitar, there lies a legacy of blues and rock and roll that has influenced countless musicians over the decades.

The 1949 Gibson ES-5N isn't just an ordinary instrument; it is considered one of the most historically significant guitars in existence. With only 22 made that year, it holds immense value due to its rarity and the remarkable journey it has undergone for the past 77 years. The starting bid for this piece of music history is set at £1,500,000, and it is expected to draw the attention of rock and roll legends, collectors, and guitar enthusiasts alike.

T-Bone Walker's Influence

T-Bone Walker, a pioneering figure in the development of electric guitar music, utilized this very guitar during his career, which spanned close to two decades. His innovative playing style and techniques paved the way for rock and roll, influencing a multitude of renowned artists such as Chuck Berry, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, B.B. King, and many others. Owning this guitar means possessing a fragment of a musical era that shaped the sound of modern music.

According to Jim Tuerk, Reverb's VP of Marketing, “This is a rare opportunity to own a piece of music history. T-Bone Walker's influence on the evolution of blues into modern rock can't be overstated. This guitar was a leading character in that story.”

Walker’s legacy doesn’t just mirror the evolution of the guitar itself but reflects a timeline where music began to break the boundaries of genre, style, and culture.

A Grand Comeback for Regent Sounds

Regent Sounds hasn't just focused on this auction; they have also embraced a complete renovation of the shop, reinvigorating the space that previously welcomed legends like The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, and Elton John. The expansion includes the addition of the Rare and Vintage Guitar Lounge and several soundproof booths designed for musicians to test instruments without distractions. This revitalization echoes the shift of Denmark Street back to its former glory as a bustling hub for music and creativity—known historically as “Tin Pan Alley.”

This auction is more than just a sale; it signifies Regent Sounds' return to the forefront of the music scene in London and reflects the ongoing creative spirit that surrounds Denmark Street. Crispin Weir, co-owner of Regent Sounds, highlighted the store's rich history while conveying excitement about the future: “The recent expansion and the sale of T-Bone's legendary guitar mark just the beginning of our journey.”

The Event Experience

For those interested in this monumental guitar, it will be on display at Regent Sounds during the auction period. Music enthusiasts can also schedule appointments to closely examine the guitar, allowing for a personal connection to this piece of history. As the auction approaches, one can feel the palpable excitement surrounding this iconic instrument and the stories it carries with it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the auction of T-Bone Walker's 1949 Gibson ES-5N is not only an opportunity to own a remarkable piece of music history but also an invitation to participate in the ongoing legacy of rock and roll. Whether you are an avid collector, a passionate musician, or a dedicated fan of the genre, this event promises to resonate deeply within the hearts of those who understand the significant impact T-Bone Walker had on music while simultaneously echoing the revival of a cherished musical landmark.

For more updates, check Regent Sounds at www.regentsounds.com and keep an eye on the auction’s progress on Reverb.