Johnny Marr announces auction of more than 100 iconic guitars, including instruments used in classics by The Smiths

Johnny Marr, legendary British guitarist known for his work with The Smiths, is about to auction off an impressive collection of more than 100 guitars, including instruments that were instrumental in creating the band's classics. This unique initiative will take place in London later this year, with funds raised going to charities such as The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association and The National Autistic Society. Throughout his career, Marr has accumulated a vast collection of guitars, which have accompanied him from the days of The Smiths to collaborations with names such as Oasis, Gorillaz and Talking Heads. However, after releasing his book in 2023, "Marr's Guitars", the musician felt it was time to give these historic instruments a new fate. In an interview with BBC News, Marr explained that the process of photographing and displaying the guitars for the book made him realize that storing them in boxes or display cases would be a waste. "When I finished the book, the idea of all these guitars going back into storage seemed strange," said Marr. He highlighted that he would prefer these instruments to be enjoyed and used by people around the world, in places like Belfast, Dundee or Tokyo, where they can be loved and played daily, rather than just sitting as museum pieces. "I found the idea that someone could actually value and care for these guitars much more appealing than them being locked behind glass," he added. Among the guitars that will be available at auction, some true relics of rock history stand out. The 1982 Rickenbacker 330 Jetglo, for example, was used in the recording of "This Charming Man", one of The Smiths' biggest hits, and also in Oasis' "Supersonic", after Marr loaned it to Noel Gallagher. Another highlight is the 1971 Martin D-28, an instrument that accompanied the creation of "There is a Light That Never Goes Out", another emblematic track of the band. In addition, the Fender Johnny Marr Signature Jaguar, a 2017 Comet Sparkle model, which Marr helped design and which was used in the recording of the James Bond theme "No Time to Die", performed by Billie Eilish, will also be among the pieces auctioned. Prior to the auction, the guitars will be displayed at events in New York and London, offering fans the opportunity to see these historic instruments up close. The auction is scheduled for September in London, with estimated values for each guitar ranging between £1,000 and £150,000, reflecting the rarity and importance of each piece. This news comes at a special time for Marr, who recently announced the release of his fifth solo album, "The Age of Everything", scheduled for October. The album's first single, "Spin", has already been released, showing that the musician remains active and innovative in his career. Johnny Marr's decision to auction off his guitars not only gives fans the chance to own a piece of rock history, but also reinforces his commitment to important social causes. By transforming his collection into a charitable action, Marr demonstrates that his influence goes beyond music, positively impacting the lives of people who depend on the support of his chosen institutions.