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

Regent Sounds Unveils Historic Online Auction

Regent Sounds, a legendary guitar shop nestled in London's Denmark Street, is set to celebrate a significant milestone with the exclusive online auction of T-Bone Walker's famous 1949 Gibson ES-5N, fondly dubbed "The Guitar That Started It All." This auction is part of the launch of their new Vintage Lounge and will take place on Reverb, a leading online marketplace specializing in musical instruments. The event runs from February 23 to March 31, providing a unique opportunity for collectors and music enthusiasts worldwide.

A Tribute to a Musical Legend

T-Bone Walker is renowned for his groundbreaking influence on the electric guitar and blues music. His 1949 Gibson ES-5N is not just an iconic instrument; it represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of music history. With only 22 of these guitars originally produced in its year, it is extremely rare and holds immense historical significance. The auction is expected to attract bids starting at £1,500,000, reflecting not just its rarity but the indelible mark Walker has left on music.

Walker was more than a guitarist; he was a pioneer who shaped the sounds of rock and blues, inspiring legends like Chuck Berry, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and B.B. King. His innovative techniques and style continue to resonate with musicians today. The sale of this guitar marks a new chapter in Regent Sounds' storied history, merging past and present in a celebration of creativity and musical heritage.

Revival of a Historic Venue

The launch of the Vintage Lounge and the auction is more than just a sale; it's a revival of Denmark Street's rich musical culture. Regent Sounds has undergone significant renovations, expanding its space to include a Rare and Vintage Guitar Lounge and soundproof cabins for artists to try out instruments. These additions breathe new life into the shop, reaffirming its status as a sacred venue for music aficionados.

The public can view the legendary guitar during the auction period, with visits arranged at Regent Sounds to appreciate its beauty and history up close. This initiative represents a concerted effort to bring music back to the heart of what was once known as the British “Tin Pan Alley.”

Influential Voices on the Auction

Jim Tuerk, VP of Marketing at Reverb, emphasized the significance of this auction, stating, "This is a rare chance to own a piece of music history. T-Bone Walker's impact on the development of blues and modern rock is profound. This guitar was central to that narrative, making it fitting that Regent Sounds, a storied venue itself, plays host to its next chapter."

Tony Bacon, the author of ELECTRIC BLUES! T-Bone Walker The Guitar That Started It All, noted, "Without T-Bone Walker's genius and virtuosity, we’d likely not have experienced the rock explosion led by artists like the Rolling Stones or Jimi Hendrix. Regent Sounds stands as a hallowed ground for music fans, housing this pivotal piece of musical legacy."

Crispin Weir, co-owner of Regent Sounds, highlighted the shop's historical allure, stating that it has always been a haven for music enthusiasts. With the recent expansions, there is a promising horizon ahead for this iconic store in the world of music. He remarked, "The sale of T-Bone's legendary guitar and our partnership with Reverb is just the beginning of a new era of excitement and inspiration at Regent Sounds."

Conclusion

The auction of T-Bone Walker's 1949 Gibson ES-5N at Regent Sounds is more than just a sale; it’s a celebration of music's past, present, and future. This event stands to not only honor a legendary musician but also the vibrant spirit of creativity that Denmark Street embodies. Music lovers and collectors alike should not miss this extraordinary opportunity to connect with history—truly, a moment to seize as the music continues to play on.