Keith Urban's Ode to Imperfection: The Story of Clarence, His Beloved Telecaster
Keith Urban, a renowned country star, shares his perspective on the importance of imperfection in music and why his well-worn "Clarence" Telecaster holds a special place in his heart. Despite having access to newer and better guitars, Urban's bond with Clarence, a 1989 Fender 40th Anniversary Telecaster, remains unbreakable. The guitar's imperfections, acquired through years of road wear, add character and soul to its sound, a quality that Urban values over perfection.
Urban's journey with Clarence began in New York at Manny's Music, where he stumbled upon the guitar and immediately fell in love with its feel, tone, and playability. Despite initially keeping it as a studio guitar due to its pristine appearance, Clarence eventually became Urban's go-to instrument for live performances, replacing a black Squier Strat that he used on the road. Over the years, Clarence has been featured on album covers, music videos, and numerous hit songs, showcasing its versatility and unique sound.
The distinctive sound of Clarence can be heard on tracks like "Clutterbilly," where its speed, articulation, and consistency across all strings shine through. Urban's deep familiarity with the guitar allows him to express himself effortlessly, highlighting the importance of the player's connection to their instrument. Despite experimenting with other guitars, Clarence remains a trusted companion that offers a level of comfort and familiarity unmatched by newer instruments.
Throughout the years, Urban has made modifications to Clarence, including adding a middle pickup and a five-way switch for increased versatility. Despite initial challenges in finding the right pickguard to accommodate the modifications, Clarence's unique features have only added to its charm and character. The guitar's resilience was put to the test during a devastating flood in Nashville in 2010, where most of Urban's guitars survived and were restored to their former glory.
Urban's collaboration with PRS, facilitated by John Mayer, aims to create a signature model that combines versatility with the soulful imperfections of Clarence. By meticulously measuring and replicating Clarence's neck profile, Urban hopes to capture the essence of his beloved Telecaster in a new instrument. The ongoing prototype development with PRS reflects Urban's desire to find a guitar that balances playability with a touch of rawness, reminiscent of the working-class spirit found in Fender guitars.
As Urban looks towards the completion of his PRS signature model, Clarence's role in his musical journey may evolve into that of a studio companion rather than a live performance staple. While Clarence's tonal quality may have diminished over time, its legacy lives on through Urban's collection of 40th Anniversary Teles, each carrying a piece of Clarence's soul. Urban's dedication to preserving the essence of Clarence while embracing new possibilities with PRS showcases his commitment to honoring the past while embracing the future of his musical expression.