George Michael's Iconic Guitar from 'Faith' Set to Fetch Big Bucks at Auction!
A Legendary Guitar Hits the Auction Block
A significant piece of music memorabilia is poised to go under the hammer this month, featuring the acoustic guitar that George Michael famously used in his 1987 music video for the hit song 'Faith.' The Gretsch Synchromatic 160, distinguished by its sunburst finish, is anticipated to sell for between £60,000 and £120,000 at Sworders auction house in Essex on October 29.
This guitar is part of a larger collection of items that belonged to Siobhan Bailey, who was Michael’s personal assistant for over two decades. After Bailey passed away in 2014, her husband has organized this collection for auction, providing fans and collectors a unique chance to own pieces that reflect the late artist's career.
An Iconic Symbol of Pop Culture
A Defining Piece of Pop History
The Gretsch guitar played a crucial role in shaping the visual identity of Michael’s solo career, prominently featured in the 'Faith' music video. It comes with a case labeled 'Rockabilly Rebel,' a reference to the 1950s style that influenced the song. This track marked a significant turning point for Michael, solidifying his status as a solo artist after his time with Wham! and achieving four weeks at the top of the US charts.
In addition to the guitar, the auction will showcase 31 other lots that highlight various aspects of Michael’s career. These include gold and platinum records, tour programs, and personal itinerary documents, including materials from Wham!’s groundbreaking 1985 tour in China. Among the notable items are a rare unreleased promotional box set for the album 'Older' and a collection of signed photographs addressed to Bailey.
Celebrating the Faith Era
Renewed Focus on the Faith Era
This auction comes at a time of heightened interest in the 'Faith' era, just ahead of the 10th anniversary of Michael’s passing in December. Fans can also anticipate the release of a new documentary film, 'George Michael: The Faith Tour,' set to premiere between November 6 and December 11. The film will feature restored footage from a 1988 concert in Paris, filmed with 14 35mm cameras and co-directed by Andy Morahan and David Austin, who also directed the original 'Faith' music video.
Alongside the Sworders auction, another sale will include a pair of Ray-Ban sunglasses worn by Michael during his 'Faith' tour, expected to sell for between £15,000 and £30,000, underscoring the ongoing demand for memorabilia linked to one of pop music's most iconic figures.