A few details: it was on their return from their one-month tour of the USA and Canada (from January 22 to February 19, 1960) that their plane was four hours late... It was obviously there that they saw this movie "Loving You" and Elvis with his Gibson J 200 Natural. That's when Cliff decided to buy one. Apache was recorded in June 1960, and the South Africa tour took place in 1961.
Really enjoying these little stories with Bruce. Been a shads fan since I was 9 years old and now I’m approaching mid fifties. They still have the sane effect on me now as they did back then just that magical sound!
@jefferyprice773 - In the early days The Drifters then The Shadows were Cliff’s backing group and he paid them a weekly wage, so they were in fact Cliff’s employees, hence Cliff bought the guitars. Strange really, once the Shadows started having hits of their own they were then given Fenders free by the UK distributor!
He did later play one on Guitar Tango which was likely his own as the publicity shots show a sunburst one, Hank played a matching one. Bruce also had a Martin guitar which is used on the Young Ones album cover.
A few details: it was on their return from their one-month tour of the USA and Canada (from January 22 to February 19, 1960) that their plane was four hours late... It was obviously there that they saw this movie "Loving You" and Elvis with his Gibson J 200 Natural. That's when Cliff decided to buy one. Apache was recorded in June 1960, and the South Africa tour took place in 1961.
Always thought Bruce used his Martin acoustic for the Shads early hits.
Really enjoying these little stories with Bruce. Been a shads fan since I was 9 years old and now I’m approaching mid fifties. They still have the sane effect on me now as they did back then just that magical sound!
Thanks Gareth, still a few more to come and then more with different guitars and makers/players.
Awesome
Hank Bruce Jet Brian what an excellent collection of players The Shadows a great band
Yes they are!
Always thought Bruce played (his own) Martin guitar for the Shadow sessions?
Why didn't Bruce buy is own J200 ?, he could afford it by then maybe.
@jefferyprice773 - In the early days The Drifters then The Shadows were Cliff’s backing group and he paid them a weekly wage, so they were in fact Cliff’s employees, hence Cliff bought the guitars. Strange really, once the Shadows started having hits of their own they were then given Fenders free by the UK distributor!
He did later play one on Guitar Tango which was likely his own as the publicity shots show a sunburst one, Hank played a matching one. Bruce also had a Martin guitar which is used on the Young Ones album cover.
Bruce's teeth are distracting and whiter than his hair! I'm surprised Cliff lent any guitars to Bruce with his record of holding onto them.