It’s not uncommon to associate certain guitar models with certain artists. Anything from a specific finish, particular appointments or even years of manufacture, some guitars have become so synonymous with a particular artist that it’s difficult to leave them out of the conversation when mentioning these models in passing.
But nothing sticks to a musician quite like their own personalized or custom painted instrument. In this article, we’ll be exploring one iconic guitar in particular, the hand-painted 1964 Gibson SG used by Eric Clapton in Cream in the late 1960’s.
Eric Clapton’s “The Fool” SG guitar was a rather an iconic and visually striking instrument, well known for its psychedelic artwork and association with one of the greatest rock guitarists of all time, this guitar has become a symbol of the 1960’s counterculture movement and continues to inspire musicians and collectors alike.
The story of “The Fool” SG begins in 1967 when a Dutch design collective called “The Fool” was commissioned to customize a Gibson SG for Eric Clapton, who was then a member of the band Cream alongside Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker. “The Fool” consisted of artists Marijke Koger, Simon Posthuma, Josje Leeger, and Barry Finch, who were well-known for their vibrant and psychedelic artwork. As Cream was rising in popularity, Clapton wanted a guitar that would match the experimental and boundary-pushing music they were creating.
The result of this collaboration was a breathtaking masterpiece. The original guitar, a 1964 SG Standard, was transformed into a kaleidoscope of colors. The body and neck were adorned with intricate paintings and vibrant swirls in every shade of the rainbow. It featured a microphone wielding cherub dancing above fire, surrounded by stars and clouds, among other psychedelic motifs. The pick guard features a colorful scene of a stream flowing through a green meadow with a bold red sun shining down from above. The guitar was a visual representation of the era’s free-spirited and psychedelic ethos, mirroring the mind-expanding experiences of the time.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, “The Fool” SG was also a high-quality instrument that showcased the exceptional craftsmanship of Gibson guitars during that period. The SG Standard model, originally introduced in 1961 as the new Les Paul, was already renowned for its slim neck profile, comfortable playability, and versatile tone. 64’s specifically are regarded as the last year for any SG model to feature nickel-plated hardware, and the wider 1 11/16” nut width which was changed in 1965. With the artistic touch of “The Fool,” the guitar became a true work of art that harmoniously merged form and function.
For SG enthusiasts today who can’t swing the going rate of an original 1960’s SG Standard, or simply want a true to spec version they can play without worry, Gibson currently makes an excellent recreation through their custom shop in Nashville, TN. Have a look, if you’re so inclined!
Or if you’re looking to sell a vintage SG, you can reach out via our website by following this link: https://imperialvintageguitars.com/pages/sell-your-guitar-1
Eric Clapton used “The Fool” SG extensively during Cream’s 1967 world tour and various recording sessions. The guitar played a significant role in defining the band’s sound and became synonymous with Clapton’s distinctive “Woman Tone”, which he once demonstrated to an interviewer was either or both pickups with the tone knob rolled all the way down, creating a wooly and fat blues tone that he was known for at that time. “The Fool’s” unique appearance made it instantly recognizable on stage, adding to the mystique and allure of Clapton as a guitar hero.
As the years went by, “The Fool” SG underwent some changes and modifications. The original Lyre vibrato system was replaced with a stop tailpiece, and the guitar’s finish evolved over time due to wear and restoration. Clapton is said to have gifted the guitar to his friend George Harrison of The Beatles, but it’s not known for certain. Harrison is known for also playing a different 1964 SG Standard, but it’s speculated that he may have also owned the The Fool at one point in time. It eventually passed through the hands of Jackie Lomax, who made an effort to repair and restore the guitar back to its former glory, and eventually ended up in possession of Todd Rundgren.
In 1999, “The Fool” SG was sold at an auction for a staggering sum of $497,500, making it one of the most expensive guitars ever sold at the time. The guitar has since changed hands several times and is now considered a highly sought-after collector’s item.
While the original “The Fool” SG may no longer be in Clapton’s possession, its impact on the music world remains indelible. Countless guitarists have been inspired by its unique design and association with one of the greatest guitarists in rock history. Replicas and tribute versions of the guitar have been produced over the years, ensuring that its legacy lives on in the hands of musicians and fans who continue to celebrate its rich history.
Eric Clapton’s “The Fool” SG guitar is more than just a musical instrument; it is a symbol of the 1960s’ artistic and cultural revolution. Its psychedelic artwork, exceptional craftsmanship, and association with Clapton and Rundgren, make it a priceless artifact that continues to captivate generations of music lovers and collectors, forever etching its name in the pantheon of legendary guitars.
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