Adam Clayton's Bass Guitar Collection: A Musical Legacy Up for Auction
U2 bassist Adam Clayton is parting ways with a selection of instruments from his personal collection, which will be auctioned off next month. The collection, consisting of 18 instruments, is currently on display at The Museum of Style Icons in Ireland until November 9th before heading to Nashville for Julien’s Auctions’ event at the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum’s Municipal Auditorium on November 20-21. This marks the first time Clayton’s bass guitars will be publicly showcased.
Clayton expressed his attachment to the instruments, noting that each bass holds sentimental value from various tours and recording sessions throughout his career. Among the guitars up for auction is his Sherwood Green Fender Jazz signature guitar, used during U2 performances on The Tonight Show and the Innocence + Experience tour. Additionally, a Lakland Joe Osborn J sunburst bass and a selection of vintage Fender basses from the 1960s and '70s are included in the collection.
Notable pieces in the collection include a 2010 Gold Sparkle Fender Adam Clayton Precision Bass, a pair of Warwick Gold Reversos used on U2’s 360 world tour, and a 2010 Sadowsky Will Lee J Style bass in Green Sparkle. The auction will feature a variety of bass guitars that have played a significant role in Clayton’s musical journey.
For more information on the auction and the instruments available, visit Julien’s Auction website. Clayton’s unique sound and approach to playing bass have been integral to U2’s Grammy-winning music, with the musician emphasizing the importance of the tactile connection between player and instrument.