**Kirk Hammett’s Acquisition of Peter Green’s Legendary Guitar: A Story of Passion and Musical Heritage**
In the annals of rock guitar history, there are few more revered instruments than Peter Green’s 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard. The guitar, which Green played on countless seminal recordings with Fleetwood Mac, holds a special place in the hearts of guitarists worldwide for its distinctive, soulful tone.
In 1995, the guitar found its way into the hands of Kirk Hammett, lead guitarist of Metallica. Hammett had long been an admirer of Green’s playing, and when the opportunity arose to acquire the legendary instrument, he jumped at the chance. The story of how much Hammett paid for the guitar is a fascinating tale of passion, musical appreciation, and a deep respect for the legacy of one of rock’s greatest guitarists.
**The “Greeny” Guitar: A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship**
The guitar Green played, affectionately known as “Greeny,” was one of the first Les Paul Standards ever made, and it quickly became one of the most sought-after guitars in the world. The guitar’s distinctive sound is attributed to a combination of factors, including its lightweight body, resonant mahogany neck, and powerful PAF pickups.
Green used Greeny extensively during his time with Fleetwood Mac, playing it on such classic tracks as “Black Magic Woman,” “The Green Manalishi (With the Two Prong Crown),” and “Albatross.” The guitar’s sound became synonymous with the band’s early, blues-influenced sound.
**Hammett’s Acquisition: A Dream Come True**
When Greeny went up for auction in 1995, Hammett was determined to acquire it. He had always been a fan of Green’s playing, and he saw Greeny as the ultimate guitar. Hammett made a successful bid for the guitar, reportedly paying $2 million for the privilege of owning it.
For Hammett, the acquisition of Greeny was a dream come true. He saw the guitar as a symbol of his own musical journey. He would often study the guitar’s construction, trying to unlock the secrets of its sound.
**Hammett’s Use of Greeny: A New Chapter in the Guitar’s Legacy**
Although he paid a hefty sum for Greeny, Hammett did not treat the guitar as a museum piece. He played it regularly, both in the studio and on stage. Hammett’s use of Greeny added a new chapter to the guitar’s legacy, as he brought it to a new generation of guitarists.
Hammett’s playing style on Greeny is more aggressive than Green’s, but he still manages to capture the guitar’s unique tone. Hammett has used Greeny on a number of Metallica recordings, including the album “Load” and the single “Fuel.” He has also used it on his solo projects.
**Expert Advice: Tips for Aspiring Guitarists**
Hammett’s acquisition of Greeny is a reminder that anything is possible if you have passion and determination. If you are an aspiring guitarist, here are a few tips to help you achieve your goals:
Set realistic goals. Don’t expect to become a professional guitarist overnight. It takes time and practice to develop the skills and experience necessary to succeed.
- Be patient and persistent. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. Keep practicing and working hard, and eventually you will achieve your goals.
- Find a mentor. A great way to learn guitar is to find a mentor who can guide you along the way. A mentor can provide you with valuable feedback and advice, and they can help you to stay motivated.
- Play with other musicians. One of the best ways to improve your guitar playing is to play with other musicians. This will help you to develop your timing and your ability to play in a group setting.
- Experiment with different sounds. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different guitar sounds. Try using different guitars, amplifiers, and effects pedals to find the sound that you like best.
- Be yourself. Don’t try to copy other guitarists. Find your own unique sound and style.
**FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Peter Green’s Guitar**
How much did Kirk Hammett pay for Peter Green’s guitar?
Kirk Hammett reportedly paid $2 million for Peter Green’s 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard in 1995.
What is the history of Peter Green’s guitar?
Peter Green’s 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard was one of the first Les Paul Standards ever made. It was built in 1959 and was used by Green extensively during his time with Fleetwood Mac. The guitar was sold at auction in 1995, and was acquired by Kirk Hammett for $2 million.
What is the significance of Peter Green’s guitar?
Peter Green’s 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard is one of the most iconic guitars in rock history. It was used by Green on some of Fleetwood Mac’s most famous recordings, and its distinctive sound has influenced countless guitarists.
**Conclusion**
Kirk Hammett’s acquisition of Peter Green’s legendary guitar is a reminder that the power of music can transcend time and generations. Hammett’s passion for Green’s playing and his respect for the guitar’s legacy have ensured that Greeny will continue to inspire guitarists for years to come.
If you are interested in learning more about Peter Green’s guitar, or if you are an aspiring guitarist, I encourage you to check out the resources listed below.
