In a momentous event held at Nashville, Tennessee’s Hard Rock Cafe, a piece of musical history changed hands as Kurt Cobain’s Fender Skystang I found a new home through a special auction hosted by Julien’s Auctions. The iconic guitar, synonymous with Nirvana’s “In Utero” touring cycle between 1993 and 1994, fetched a staggering $1,587,500, solidifying its place as the eighth most expensive guitar ever sold.
Known for its prominence in Nirvana’s final concert on March 1, 1994, in Munich, Germany, the Skystang I holds a special significance in the late musician’s repertoire. Footage from that historic performance showcases Cobain wielding this guitar, capturing a snapshot of the band’s musical legacy.
Kurt Cobain guitar sold for big money
Via UG – Notably, the top spot on the list of the most expensive guitars ever sold is claimed by another Cobain instrument – the 1959 Martin D-18E acoustic-electric guitar that commanded a remarkable $6 million at auction. This particular guitar gained notoriety as the instrument Cobain strummed during Nirvana’s unforgettable MTV Unplugged concert in 1993.
The proud new owner of the Skystang I is Japanese businessman Mitsuru Sato, whose vision extends beyond personal ownership. Sato envisions a future where an array of iconic instruments from musical history will be exhibited for the world to appreciate in a cafe he plans to open. The Skystang I is set to become a centerpiece in this collection, as Sato expresses his desire to pass on the spirit of rock to the next generation in a tangible and meaningful way. He states, “I want to pass on rock to the next generation in a real way. We would like to use this guitar to support the next generation aiming to pursue music.”
In a commendable move, a portion of the proceeds from the Skystang I’s sale will contribute to “Kicking the Stigma,” a mental health awareness initiative spearheaded by the Indianapolis Colts and the Jim Irsay family. This philanthropic endeavor adds an additional layer of significance to the guitar’s legacy, aligning with Cobain’s enduring impact on music and culture.
For those eager to delve into the history of the Skystang I, Julien’s Auctions provides a comprehensive look at its journey through its dedicated lot. As this iconic guitar transitions to its new custodian, the echoes of Cobain’s musical legacy continue to resonate, now with Mitsuru Sato as its caretaker and advocate for the next generation of aspiring musicians.
