The Mystique of “Sticky Fingers”: The Resurfacing of a Lost Les Paul Guitar
In an intriguing twist worthy of rock ‘n’ roll lore, the case of the long-lost Les Paul guitar linked to Mick Taylor and the Rolling Stones has resurfaced. Taylor, who graced the band with his talents from 1969 to 1974 and was later inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with them in 1989, recently learned that this iconic instrument, once presumed lost, has been discovered at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met). This revelation brings to light not only the guitar’s storied past but also the thrilling narrative surrounding its disappearance.
The Infamous Theft at Villa Nellcôte
The saga begins over five decades ago in 1971 at Villa Nellcôte in France, where the Stones were living. The villa became a symbol of both creativity and chaos during the band’s recording of the seminal album “Exile on Main St.” Rock historian and fan accounts suggest that the villa was an open house, allowing thieves easy access. On a September day in 1971, a group of burglars brazenly walked out with not just Taylor’s Les Paul, but nine of Keith Richards’ guitars, Bobby Keys’ saxophone, and Bill Wyman’s bass guitar. Reports indicate that drug dealers from Marseille, seeking repayment from Richards, orchestrated the robbery, turning what was supposed to be a creative refuge into a scene of theft and intrigue.
The Guitar’s Journey Through Time
Fast forward to May of this year, when the Met announced a monumental gift of over 500 vintage guitars from the golden age of American guitarmaking. Among them was the now-famous 1959 sunburst Les Paul guitar, previously owned by Keith Richards and even played during the Stones’ iconic first appearance on “The Ed Sullivan Show” in 1964. This collection serves not just as an exhibition of musical history but also as a resonant reminder of the legends that have shaped rock music. It was during this moment of revelation that Taylor’s business manager and partner, Marlies Damming, confirmed that Richards had sold the very same Les Paul to Taylor.
The Significance of the 1959 Les Paul
Damming elaborated on the exceptional nature of late 1950s Les Pauls, noting their unique “flaming” features — each guitar bearing a distinct pattern akin to a fingerprint. Taylor has publicly expressed his astonishment upon hearing that his missing instrument had resurfaced. He maintains that he never received compensation for its theft and is puzzled by how his guitar found its way back into the public domain through the Met’s collection. This particular piece of equipment was Taylor’s go-to guitar before it mysteriously vanished, adding a personal significance to its return.
A New Chapter for Rock History
As the story unfolds, the Metropolitan Museum of Art remains reticent about the details of the acquisition. While inquiries to representatives have not elicited immediate responses, the guitar’s comeback has undoubtedly drawn attention to the broader culture of rock music and its ever-evolving narrative. The implications of this discovery are profound; a symbol of creativity, a muse of legendary artists, it encapsulates both personal and musical history. Taylor’s ongoing intrigue showcases the deep emotional connections artists have with their instruments, connecting generations of fans and musicians alike.
Looking Forward: Questions Await Answers
As fans and rock historians ponder the implications of this rediscovered guitar, the narrative has left the community buzzing. The speculation surrounding how Keith Richards’ sold guitar ended up at a major museum has become a focal point of discussion. The return of Taylor’s treasured Les Paul serves as a reminder of the fragility of rock history and the enduring desire to reclaim what has been lost. The enduring journey of this instrument is more than just a footnote in music history; it’s a chapter replete with tales of loss, intrigue, and the unwavering spirit of rock ’n’ roll. In true rock fashion, the story is still unfolding, and the anticipation for its next twist is palpable. Stay tuned as the saga develops — we all would like to ask Keef!
