Norman's Rare Guitars: A Documentary Journey Through Vintage Music History
Norman Harris, the owner of Norman’s Rare Guitars, recently revealed his biggest career mistake of turning down an offer to buy George Harrison’s Gretsch Country Gentleman. The iconic vintage guitar business is the focus of a documentary now available on Netflix in the US, showcasing its renowned reputation and featuring interviews with artists like Joe Bonamassa and the late Taylor Hawkins.
In a candid interview with The Guardian, Harris reflects on the shop’s origins and its lasting impact, highlighting the pivotal moment when George Harrison visited the store in 1973. Harrison was in search of a replacement for his stolen 1957 Goldtop Les Paul, known as Lucy, and ended up purchasing two 1958 Les Paul Standards from Harris during his visit.
Despite the memorable encounter with Harrison, Harris missed out on the opportunity to acquire Harrison’s Gretsch Country Gentleman, a decision he now considers his biggest regret in his career. He explains that he wasn’t a fan of Gretsch guitars and doubted that anyone would believe he had spent the day with George Harrison and bought his Beatles guitar.
The documentary delves into the rich history of Norman’s Rare Guitars and its impact on the music industry, offering a glimpse into the world of vintage guitars and the artists who value the shop’s unique offerings. To learn more about the documentary or explore the shop’s collection of rare guitars, visit their website for a deeper dive into their storied past and current inventory.
Rachel, a dedicated guitarist with over a decade of experience, joined Guitar.com in 2021 as a writer. With a passion for heavy music and a background in music journalism, she brings a unique perspective to her writing, drawing on her own experiences as a DIY guitarist and music enthusiast. Whether she's at a festival or tuning her guitars, Rachel's love for all things heavy shines through in her work.