The Legacy of David Gilmour's Black Strat: From Pink Floyd to Charity Auctions
David Gilmour, the legendary guitarist of Pink Floyd, made headlines in 2019 when he decided to auction off over 120 of his guitars for charity. The proceeds from the auction, totaling $21.5 million, were donated to the ClientEarth charity. Among the guitars sold was the iconic Black Strat, which Gilmour had owned since 1970 and used extensively in his music. The Black Strat was eventually sold again in March 2026 for a staggering $14.5 million, setting new auction records.
Gilmour shared the story of the Black Strat, revealing that he purchased the guitar in 1970 from Manny's in New York. This instrument became his main guitar for Pink Floyd recordings from the 1970s to the 1980s, and it remains his most-played guitar to this day.
Reflecting on his early days as a musician, Gilmour recalled spending time in music shops, admiring guitars he couldn't afford. Despite his humble beginnings, he eventually acquired the Black Strat, which became an integral part of his musical journey.
The Black Strat played a significant role in Pink Floyd's music, featuring prominently on albums like "Meddle," "Dark Side Of The Moon," and iconic tracks like "Comfortably Numb" and "Shine On You Crazy Diamond." While Gilmour acknowledges that the guitar may not have the historical significance of other iconic instruments, its value lies in its contribution to his music.
After retiring the Black Strat, Gilmour displayed it at the Hard Rock Café in Dallas, where fans could admire it. Despite the sentimental attachment to the guitar, Gilmour recognized it as a tool of his trade and eventually acquired other guitars to continue his musical journey.
One of the myths surrounding the Black Strat is the strap that Gilmour's wife, Polly Samson, gifted him – a strap similar to the one Jimi Hendrix used. Gilmour fondly recalls his encounter with Hendrix at the Isle of Wight in 1970, where he assisted in mixing the sound for the legendary guitarist's performance.
The legacy of the Black Strat lives on, not just as a guitar but as a symbol of Gilmour's musical journey and his commitment to charitable causes. The guitar's sale and subsequent auction have cemented its place in music history, showcasing the enduring impact of an instrument that has played a vital role in shaping iconic sounds.