John Lennon famously played his Epiphone Casino guitar during The Beatles' iconic rooftop concert.
This specific guitar held a special place in Lennon's collection and was a familiar sight during his later years with The Beatles. Originally, the Epiphone Casino boasted a vibrant sunburst finish. However, Lennon, known for his experimental approach, chose to modify the instrument himself. He personally sanded the guitar down, meticulously removing its original finish to expose the natural wood grain of the body. This unique, stripped-down appearance became synonymous with Lennon's ownership and the guitar's appearance during this historic performance.
The Epiphone Casino: A Closer Look
The Epiphone Casino was a popular choice among Beatles members, with both John Lennon and Paul McCartney owning and frequently using them. Its hollow-body design contributed to its distinctive tone, making it versatile enough for both rhythm and lead guitar parts.
Key characteristics of Lennon's Epiphone Casino on the rooftop:
- Model: Epiphone Casino
- Finish: Originally sunburst, personally sanded down to natural wood by Lennon.
- Significance: A trusted and frequently played instrument, it became iconic through its appearance at the final public performance by The Beatles.
This iconic instrument, with its unique natural wood finish, became an enduring symbol of the band's final live performance atop the Apple Corps headquarters in London.
For more details on The Beatles' gear during the rooftop concert, you can explore resources like Wikipedia's page on The Beatles' Rooftop Concert.