The 1965 Fender Stratocaster: The Legendary Guitar That Shaped Stevie Ray Vaughan’s Blues
A guitar, a time capsule of a legendary era, captures the very essence of the blues played in Austin, Texas’s iconic clubs between 1976 and 1977. This instrument tells a beautiful story within a larger history.
A Legendary Encounter:
Purchased in September 1976 from the renowned South Austin Music store, this 1965 Stratocaster (likely from October) became the learning instrument for a young Austin guitarist. He discovered the guitar alongside his friend, one Stevie Ray Vaughan, who would frequently play it—about 163 times, according to the owner’s sworn affidavit.
“Stevie was the first person I showed this guitar to.”
From September 1976 to October 1977, this Stratocaster stood witness to the rise of one of the greatest blues musicians.
“I used to say that playing the blues was like being Black twice. Stevie (Ray Vaughan) was neither, but I never noticed.”
B.B KING
During this time, Stevie Ray Vaughan and his student became close friends, sharing countless hours playing together. Stevie Ray Vaughan used this guitar to teach him the blues classics: Stormy Monday Blues, Thunderbird, Voodoo Child, Purple Haze, Foxey Lady, Sweet Home Chicago, and many more.
A GUITAR PLAYED LIVE
Stevie Ray Vaughan also played this guitar during numerous performances and jam sessions at two iconic Austin clubs, both of which were still in their early years at the time but have since become revered blues institutions: the Rome Inn, which opened in 1975, and Antone’s, which debuted in July of the same year.
Accompanying the guitar is an affidavit from a Notary Public of the State of Texas, as well as a rare photograph capturing a young Stevie Ray Vaughan on the rise, standing in front of the iconic curtains at Antone’s, on Sixth Street.
The Artpèges Gallery will auction this 1965 Fender Stratocaster used by Stevie Ray Vaughan on December 2, 2024, at Drouot. This iconic instrument, rich in history and unforgettable musical moments, is a rare and sought-after piece for collectors and enthusiasts of blues and vintage guitars.