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A Musical Legacy: Robert Johnson and Jeff Beck’s OXBLOOD Les Paul

In the vast world of rock music, few instruments carry the storied history of Jeff Beck's OXBLOOD Les Paul. Owned by guitarist and producer Robert Johnson, this iconic guitar recently fetched a staggering $1,315,708 at auction, making headlines in the music community. The sale coincides with the 50th anniversary of Beck and Johnson’s unforgettable collaboration on the Rolling Stones' Black & Blue sessions in Rotterdam in 1975.

A Serendipitous Purchase

The tale began back in June 1972, when Robert Johnson made an impactful purchase from a local music teacher in Memphis: a 1953 Les Paul Gold Top. What seemed like an average acquisition soon turned into a vital piece of rock history. Johnson, wanting to imbue the instrument with personal flair, sought the expertise of John Evans, former keyboardist of The Boxtops, to modify the pickups. The guitar took on an even more unique appearance when Tom Keckler spray-painted it with auto paint, matching Johnson's own 1960 Oxblood shoes. Despite these modifications, Johnson wasn’t satisfied with the end result, leading him to put the guitar on consignment.

The Oxblood Revelation

As fate would have it, Johnson's connection with the guitar would take an unexpected turn. In November 1972, he attended a concert in Little Rock featuring ZZ Top, where he was reunited with his friend Billy Gibbons. During their conversation, Beck inquired about any guitars for sale, leading Johnson to mention he had seventeen, including the Oxblood Les Paul. The next day, Beck visited the music store and was enchanted by the guitar's unique vibe. Gibbons, realizing its potential, had Beck's manager purchase the Oxblood Les Paul, thus commencing the guitar’s legendary journey.

An Unforgettable Session

Fast forward to January 31, 1975, and Johnson found himself unexpectedly at a recording session with the Rolling Stones in Holland, where both he and Beck were invited without prior knowledge of each other's attendance. Johnson brought his guitar, while Beck's primary instrument for the session was his newly acquired Oxblood Les Paul. The duo recorded several tracks together over two days, creating memories neither could have anticipated would lead to such monumental fame for the guitar.

A Collector’s Dream

Over the years, Johnson has played a pivotal role in bridging iconic rock stars with their dream instruments. Between 1970 and 1976, he facilitated the sales of numerous guitars to British and American rock legends, including Marc Bolan, Andy Powell, and Leslie West. Over 100 guitars passed through his hands to Guitar Village and Top Gear in London, making him a significant figure in the music instrument trade.

Current Ventures

Today, Robert Johnson continues to influence the music industry through active production work and new projects. He is currently collaborating with Billy Gibbons on the long-awaited release of the missing 1971 Albert King Stax record, featuring the renowned Muscle Shoals Swampers. Additionally, he is remixing a live 1973 Lynyrd Skynyrd recording, both set to be released under Regent Sound Records in the summer of 2025. Moreover, Johnson’s creative journey also includes work with iconic names such as Ann Wilson and Tanya Tucker, further solidifying his legacy in the industry.

In reflection, the story of Robert Johnson and Jeff Beck’s OXBLOOD Les Paul showcases more than just a guitar; it encapsulates decades of collaboration, friendship, and the unyielding spirit of rock music. As Johnson aptly stated, neither he nor Beck could have imagined that the humble instrument would one day be celebrated as a musical relic worth over a million dollars. This tale of serendipity and artistry remains a testament to the profound impact that music—and the instruments behind it—can have on our collective cultural history.

For further insights into Robert Johnson’s projects and his ongoing contributions to the music scene, visit Regent Sound.