Lot 453 in our forthcoming Musical Instruments & Equipment 1 sale offers collectors and players a rare opportunity to acquire a guitar with direct links to rock and roll history.
Behind every iconic frontman stands the musicians whose sound helped define an era. Few exemplify that more than James Burton, the legendary guitarist inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Burton’s extraordinary career includes performances with Ricky Nelson, Roy Orbison, Buffalo Springfield, The Monkees, Joni Mitchell, Judy Collins and, most famously, as part of Elvis Presley’s TCB (Taking Care of Business) band. He later worked with Gram Parsons, Emmylou Harris, and John Denver. He has also appeared on tour with Elvis Costello.
The story behind this particular instrument and James Burton begins in 2011, when Paul Hayes, known to many from Cash in the Attic, approached two of Morecambe’s well-known musicians: Stephen “Golly” Goulding (lead and rhythm guitar, vocals) and Garry Pugh (bass guitar, backing vocals). Hayes had long wanted to sing rock and roll, and Goulding’s long-standing musical connections included a direct link to James Burton.
As a result, Burton travelled from the United States to perform at Fort Perch Rock, New Brighton on the Wirral, a unique open-air venue overlooking the Irish Sea. The 2011 show proved a success, and promoters requested a return in 2012. Burton agreed, this time joined by the renowned fingerstyle guitarist Albert Lee. The wider band included London session drummer Pip Mailing and Liverpool-based keyboardist and vocalist Susan Hedges.
For the 2012 performances, Goulding purchased and imported a Fender Telecaster James Burton Signature Paisley model from the United States specifically for Burton to use at the shows.
Following a 10-hour rehearsal at Fort Perch Rock on 12 July 2012 and four warm-up performances in Billingham, Hull, Holmfirth and Lancaster, the band played Fort Perch Rock on 20th, 21st, 22nd and 23rd July 2012, with Paul Young also appearing during the run.
This Fender Telecaster (now offered as Lot 453) was played only at those July 2012 Fort Perch Rock concerts. It has not been used on stage since. The guitar retains a small area of wear to the gold-plated bridge, caused by sea spray during the open-air coastal performances, a subtle reminder of its live use in this distinctive setting.
For buyers seeking an instrument with documented stage history, direct association with one of rock and country music’s most influential guitarists, and a story that connects local and American musical heritage, this lot is a compelling and highly collectable opportunity.
Browse and bid on the lot until 8 March 2026. Lot listing here.
