Joe_bonamassa_1964_fender_stratocaster_guitar_o... -

Joe Bonamassa acquired the 1964 Stratocaster at in California. Originally a standard three-tone sunburst model, the guitar underwent a radical transformation in the 1970s when it was refinished in an unusual Green Sunburst

For many, this 1964 Stratocaster serves as a reminder that in the hands of a professional like Bonamassa, the "mojo" and sound of an instrument often outweigh its technical "book value" as a stock original. joe_bonamassa_1964_fender_stratocaster_guitar_o...

was engineered to capture the "magic" of the original’s gray-bottom pickups, utilizing period-correct wiring and staggered Alnico 5 magnets. Joe Bonamassa acquired the 1964 Stratocaster at in

" , is a unique piece in his vast collection that challenges the traditional vintage collector's obsession with "all-original" condition. While most collectors prize factory finishes, Bonamassa was captivated by this specific guitar for its odd aesthetic, exceptional playability, and powerful voice. Origin and Acquisition " , is a unique piece in his

. This non-stock finish, which Bonamassa has humorously called "the coolest, most hideous guitar" in his collection, is what gives the instrument its signature look and nickname. Technical Features and Tone

Despite the refinish, the guitar retains the core components that define a high-performance pre-CBS Stratocaster:

: Bonamassa immediately noted the guitar's resonance and feel, stating it was "going right on the road" to be used as a primary stage instrument rather than a museum piece. : Joe also owns a 1964 Candy Apple Red Hardtail Strat