There aren't many guitars in the history of the recording music that are so spoken about, so recognisable and so associated with it's owner like Bruce Springsteen's electric guitar. Bruce uses a number of different "Telecasters" on stage but every fan recognises "the" guitar with the scratches in a split second. "Well I got this guitar and I learned how to make it talk."

According to one source it's a 1953 Fender Esquire sold to Springsteen by Phil Petillo in 1970. Originally it came from a recording studio in New York City. Mike Batlan, Bruce's former guitar tech, notes that there is an asterisk in front of the Esquire's serial number, indicating that is was a factory reject, probably originally sold as a reject.

The neck pickup is replaced by the same pickup like the one on the bridge. The pickups are specially wound. They are totally unique and that's where that special sound comes from. The pickguard covers some sophisticated electronics that are totally waterproofed. This is normal considering the amount of sweat and water that Bruce produces and uses on stage. Almost anything has been upgraded from it's original status.

Through all those years this guitar gave millions of fans many unforgetable moments, we can only hope it continues to do so. Check also Phil Petillo's website at www.petilloguitars.com