Guitar maker Gibson is raising money for Ukraine with a special auction. He's auctioning off several custom-made instruments that Beatles or Guns N' Roses legends played on. A Paul McCartney guitar fetches the top price.
Legendary musicians help Ukraine. Four limited-edition Gibson guitars decorated in the national colors of Ukraine were sold at an auction in New York. An instrument played by ex-Beatle Paul McCartney during this year's summer tour fetched the top price of 76,800 US dollars.
"I'm glad to be auctioning off this beautiful guitar of mine to do something good for the excellent people of Ukraine," McCartney told auction house Julien's. The 80-year-old hopes the proceeds will help the Ukrainian people.
Another guitar that Guns N' Roses legend Slash played in Prague on June 18, 2022 went for $31,250. "It is an honor to represent the brave sovereign state of Ukraine," said Slash. "I am proud to support them in this conflict." A third instrument, signed by Rolling Stones members Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood and Queen guitarist Brian May, fetched $28,800.
According to Gibson Guitars For Peace Ukraine Relief, 100 percent of the proceeds from the auction go to humanitarian aid to the people of Ukraine. Reconstruction projects after the end of the war are also to be supported. Also offered is a "Guitars For Peace" t-shirt. Proceeds from the sale of the garment will benefit musicians and music programs in Ukraine.
"For many centuries, music has always played a central role in uniting communities and countries, especially in times of conflict," said James "JC" Curleigh, President and CEO of Gibson Brands. "Despite the dark circumstances, we stand with our support for our amazing artists to launch Guitars for Peace and envision a brighter future for Ukraine and its citizens."
