Joe Bonamassa buys legendary guitarist’s amp

Joe Bonamassa has added a special piece of history to his collection, purchasing Gary Moore’s 1989 Soldano SLO100 amplifier for £19,200 ($25,139 USD) at auction. The amp was part of The Final Encore collection hosted by Bonham’s, the last in a series of sales featuring items from Moore’s personal gear.

Bonamassa commented on social media that he typically avoids battling in high-stakes auctions but made an exception for this piece due to its personal significance. He wrote, “I have never been a fan of grabbing a paddle and slogging it out buying guitars and amps at auction. There are exceptions though. I’m super chuffed to have this one. Gary’s playing and that album Still Got the Blues changed my life as a kid.”

In a follow-up post, Bonamassa expanded on Moore’s influence, noting, “For me there was no greater proof of concept than Gary when it came to bringing kids that like to rock and play blues at the same time into the blues space. Hugely influential on me during my formative years. One of the most passionate and visceral guitarist to ever do it. One of the Goats.”

Born in Belfast in 1952, Gary Moore rose to international fame with his million-selling 1990 album Still Got the Blues and the 1978 hit single “Parisienne Walkways.” His career spanned hard rock, blues, and fusion, as he played with Thin Lizzy, Colosseum II, and the original Skid Row lineup in addition to a successful solo discography. The Bonhams auction featured guitars, amps, stage gear, studio equipment, and clothing from Moore’s personal collection.

Over his career, Bonamassa has paid tribute to Moore, notably with his cover of “Still Got The Blues” on Beacon Theatre: Live From New York.

Bonamassa is currently on tour through December 6.