Neil Young’s “Old Black” stands as one of the most celebrated and recognizable Black Lp Guitars in the history of rock music. This legendary instrument, a constant companion to Young since the late 1960s, has been instrumental in countless performances and has profoundly shaped his distinctive sound. The acquisition of this black Les Paul guitar by Young is a story steeped in musical lore and chance encounters.
From Jim Messina to Neil Young: The Genesis of a Legend
The journey of “Old Black” began with Jim Messina, known for his roles in Buffalo Springfield and later Poco. In 1968, a pivotal trade occurred: Messina exchanged this black Les Paul for Neil Young’s Gretsch guitar. This black LP guitar quickly became indispensable to Young, featuring prominently on his early solo endeavors, most notably the groundbreaking ‘Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere’ album. This marked the beginning of a long and impactful musical partnership between Young and his black LP guitar.
Witnessing “Old Black” in its Youth: The 1969 Troubadour Era
First-hand accounts from early Neil Young performances offer invaluable insights into the original configuration of “Old Black.” A vivid recollection from a 1969 performance at the Troubadour in Los Angeles paints a detailed picture of the black LP guitar in its formative years. At this time, the black LP guitar boasted a striking gloss black finish, complemented by a Bigsby B-3 vibrato system and exposed stop-bridge holes. A particularly unique detail was an adhesive tape strip placed above the pickups, bearing a memorable, albeit provocative, message. Furthermore, the guitar was equipped with a Rowe DeArmond M5A single-coil pickup, a feature commonly found on vintage Gretsch guitars of the 1950s. Adding to its aesthetic, the headstock was elegantly bound with creme binding and adorned with the signature Gibson crown inlay, while Grover Rotomatic N-102 tuners ensured tuning stability.
The Evolution of a Black LP Guitar: Modifications and Transformations
Over the decades, “Old Black” has undergone several modifications, reflecting Neil Young’s evolving musical preferences and practical needs. The initial Rowe DeArmond pickup was eventually replaced. For a brief period, a Gretsch Filtertron pickup was installed before giving way to a Firebird pickup in the early 1970s. The Bigsby vibrato system was also upgraded to a B-7 model. These modifications illustrate Young’s continuous process of refining and adapting his black LP guitar to meet the demands of his dynamic musical journey. Each change subtly altered the tone and playability, contributing to the ongoing evolution of “Old Black” and its iconic sound.
“Old Black”: More Than Just a Black LP Guitar
Neil Young’s black LP guitar, affectionately known as “Old Black,” transcends its status as a mere instrument. It has become an enduring symbol of his illustrious career and signature sound. From its early performances at the Troubadour to its current legendary status in rock history, “Old Black” remains a powerful testament to the profound impact a black Les Paul guitar can have in shaping musical landscapes and defining an artist’s legacy. Its story is interwoven with the history of rock and roll itself, solidifying its place as an icon among black LP guitars and musical instruments worldwide.
