The iconic guitar heard in the solo of Kate Bush’s debut track “Wuthering Heights” has fetched an impressive £21,500 at auction, surpassing all expectations. The 1974 Les Paul Custom, played by guitarist Ian Bairnson, was initially expected to sell for up to £10,000 but ended up going under the hammer for £17,000.
What makes this guitar even more special is the fact that Bairnson played the piece with a broken arm, showcasing his dedication and talent as a musician. Auctioneer Luke Hobbs commented that the final price was well-deserved, considering the guitar’s history and significance in music.
The background of a guitar can greatly impact its value, with Hobbs explaining that the original condition of the instrument would have been worth around £5,000, but with modifications and the history behind it, the price increased significantly.
Ian Bairnson, who passed away last year at the age of 70, was a highly respected musician in his own right, having worked with artists like Joe Cocker, Mick Fleetwood, and Neil Diamond. He was also part of the band Pilot, known for their hit song “January” that topped the UK charts.
Bairnson’s family has been selling his equipment, including 12 of his guitars, giving fans and collectors the opportunity to own a piece of music history. Hobbs described Bairnson as a “trooper” for playing the solo in “Wuthering Heights” with a broken arm, highlighting his incredible talent and dedication to his craft.
The auction house, Gardiner Houlgate, specializes in selling instruments and considers it an honor to showcase guitars like Bairnson’s to the market. The sale of this iconic guitar serves as a tribute to the timeless music of Kate Bush and the remarkable talent of Ian Bairnson.
