Gretsch Guitars Salute AC/DC Stalwart Young
AC/DC rhythm guitarist Malcolm Young, co-founder of the Australian band and backbone of their rock-steady sound since 1973, has been honoured with the creation of a limited edition Gretsch Custom Shop signature guitar called the Salute Jet.
The new model is based on Young’s 1963 red Gretsch Jet Firebird, nicknamed “The Beast,” which has great historical significance. That guitar was handed down to Young by his elder brother George and Harry Vanda, both members of 1960s hitmakers the Easybeats and later highly successful writers and producers. Malcolm himself went on to co-form AC/DC with his younger brother Angus.
Collectors will have to move fast and possess deep pockets to own one, as production is being limited to a mere 40 pieces worldwide, and the recommended price is reported to be $10,000. The G6131MY-CS Custom Shop Malcolm Young Salute Jet, to give it its full name, has been in development by the Gretsch Custom Shop team since 2008.
Detail is so authentic as to include missing pickups and distinct, deliberate effects of wear and tear, down to every last nick and dent sustained by the axe during more than 40 years of active service. It features a double-cutaway chambered mahogany body with a stripped, maple top featuring “thin-skin” lacquer finish.