Framus Unveils the Hootenanny Reissue
Framus has made waves in the music world by unveiling a reissued version of the famed 12-string acoustic guitar that once graced the hands of John Lennon.
This announcement follows the remarkable rediscovery of the instrument and its groundbreaking auction for nearly $2.9 million, a feat that made headlines globally.
In the 1960s, inspired by the emerging folk music movement and artists like Bob Dylan, Lennon acquired the Hootenanny guitar.
This purchase sparked a deep connection with the instrument, which played a crucial role in the creation of some of his most beloved songs.
Legacy of the Hootenanny Guitar
Among these classics, “You’ve Got to Hide Your Love Away” was born out of Lennon’s artistry with the Hootenanny.
The guitar was also featured prominently in iconic Beatles tracks such as “Norwegian Wood” and “Girl,” not to mention its on-screen presence in the film Help!, where George Harrison also made it sing, contributing to its rich legacy.
For over fifty years, this treasured guitar was thought to be lost to time until it miraculously reappeared in an attic tucked away in the picturesque British countryside.
The recent sale of the instrument not only set a new record but positioned it as one of the world’s most expensive guitars ever sold at auction, shattering the previous record held by George Harrison’s Futurama guitar, which fetched $1.27 million.
Specifications and Availability
The Hootenanny guitar is a distinctive fusion, combining characteristics from Framus’s jazz and concert guitars.
Lennon’s model featured a mahogany neck, rosewood bridge and fingerboard, and a trapeze tailpiece, showcasing both elegance and craftsmanship.
While Framus could not acquire the original guitar, they have faithfully recreated a model inspired by their extensive archives.
Their skilled luthiers carefully referenced historical documents, resulting in both six-string and twelve-string variations that closely mirror the original specifications, all of which have received the endorsement of Lennon’s estate.
Additionally, the new creations showcase the exceptional craftsmanship that Framus is known for, ensuring that each instrument not only sounds remarkable but also resonates with the spirit of its legendary predecessor.
Enthusiasts and collectors alike will appreciate the attention to detail, with the release highlighted by the introduction of the Mike Stringer signature guitar model, which reflects the innovative design and unique tonal qualities that inspired it.
As a result, these guitars stand out not just as replicas, but as distinctive instruments in their own right, ready to carve out new legacies for musicians everywhere.
These new guitars celebrate the Hootenanny’s historical legacy, built with solid Sitka spruce tops and mahogany sides and backs.
The fingerboards are expertly crafted from rosewood and contain 19 nickel silver frets, finished with a rich oil that enhances their appearance.
Every guitar is marked by a distinctive headstock, classified as either a 6-string or a 12-string model.
Framus emphasizes the harmonious fusion of jazz and classical influences that results in a guitar that not only looks stunning but sounds magnificent, echoing the familiar tones associated with “You’ve Got to Hide Your Love Away.”
The reissued 12-string models start at €1,099 (around $1,145), while the 6-string versions are available for €999 (roughly $1,040).
Both options come with a specially designed Hootenanny hard case, ensuring that they are as protected as they are beautiful.
Julien’s Auctions founder highlighted the guitar’s significance during its unveiling, stressing its extraordinary historical importance and the long-held belief that it was lost forever.
As the excitement around the auction grew, Julien’s CEO expressed their delight in breaking Beatles auction records with the sale of Lennon’s Hootenanny guitar, describing it not just as a piece of music history but as a lasting testament to Lennon’s enduring influence.
Now, music enthusiasts and collectors can get their hands on the Framus Hootenanny reissue guitars.
For more information, be sure to explore Framus’s offerings.