John Mayer, a name synonymous with soulful blues-rock and exceptional guitar playing, is not only known for his musical talent but also for his profound appreciation for vintage guitars. As a true aficionado in the realms of rock and blues, Mayer has carefully curated an impressive collection of vintage Fender Stratocasters and Gibson models. Each guitar in his arsenal carries its own unique history, sonic characteristics, and contributes significantly to his distinctive sound.
These vintage instruments are more than just collectibles for Mayer; they are integral to his musical identity. They serve as a direct link to the history of rock and blues guitar, influencing his playing style, tone, and overall musical expression throughout his career. Let’s explore some of the most remarkable pieces in his collection and delve into the legacy of these iconic guitars that have shaped generations of music.
Vintage Fender Stratocasters: Mayer’s Beloved Six-Strings
John Mayer playing a Stratocaster
Among the gems in John Mayer’s guitar collection, his vintage Fender Stratocasters from the 1960s hold a special place. His prized possession is an early 1964 sunburst Stratocaster. This guitar quickly ascended to become his go-to instrument, favored for its resonant tone and comfortable playability. It remains a staple in his performances and recordings to this day, demonstrating its enduring importance in his musical journey.
Adding to his Stratocaster family, Mayer also owns a rare white 1961 hardtail bridge Stratocaster. The hardtail bridge, a less common feature on Stratocasters from this era, provides enhanced tuning stability and a slightly different tonal response compared to the more traditional tremolo bridge models. This further highlights Mayer’s discerning taste and his appreciation for the nuances within the Stratocaster lineage.
Furthermore, Mayer’s collection includes a significant modern vintage piece: the 2004 Fender Stevie Ray Vaughan “Number One” Stratocaster. This guitar is not an original vintage instrument but a meticulously crafted reproduction by Fender Custom Shop master luthier John Cruz. It faithfully recreates Stevie Ray Vaughan’s legendary “Number One” Strat, complete with a relic finish that mirrors the wear and tear of Vaughan’s iconic guitar. Beyond its visual authenticity, this model boasts upgraded wiring and pickups compared to the standard signature SRV Stratocaster, making it a high-performance tribute to a blues guitar legend and a testament to Mayer’s deep respect for his influences.
Through his curated selection of 1960s Fender Stratocasters and the SRV tribute, John Mayer not only honors the pioneering guitarists who paved the way for modern blues and rock but also actively channels their inspiration into forging his own distinctive and recognizable guitar sound.
Gibson’s Iconic Models: Expanding Mayer’s Sonic Palette
John Mayer’s admiration for classic guitar design extends beyond the Fender realm, evident in his carefully chosen collection of Gibson models. Among these, the Les Paul Junior Double-Cutaway and the 1961 Gibson Les Paul/SG stand out, showcasing his appreciation for Gibson’s contribution to guitar history.
The Les Paul Junior Double-Cutaway, often finished in a vibrant cherry red, embodies a philosophy of stripped-down, raw rock and roll. Featuring a single, powerful P90 pickup situated in the bridge position, this guitar is renowned for its direct, punchy tone, and unadulterated sonic character. It offers a different voice compared to the nuanced Stratocasters, highlighting Mayer’s versatility and his willingness to explore diverse tonal landscapes.
In contrast, the 1961 Gibson Les Paul/SG (initially marketed as a Les Paul but later renamed SG) represents a leap in Gibson’s design evolution. Mayer’s 1961 model, typically finished in cherry red, is equipped with a Sideways Vibrola tremolo bridge, adding a unique visual and sonic element. It features two stock Gibson humbucker pickups, each with dedicated volume and tone controls, providing a wider range of tonal possibilities compared to the Les Paul Junior. These Gibson guitars introduce a warmer, thicker sound into Mayer’s collection, further demonstrating his adaptability as a guitarist and his commitment to exploring a wide spectrum of musical textures.
The inclusion of these Gibson models in John Mayer’s collection underscores not only his broad appreciation for masterful guitar craftsmanship across brands but also his remarkable ability to seamlessly integrate different instrument styles into his playing, reinforcing his position as a truly versatile and accomplished musician.
