Richie Sambora’s Beloved Guitar Was Stolen in 1985. 41 Years Later, They’ve Been Reunited: ‘Almost Perfect Shape’ (Exclusive)

Richie Sambora, the renowned guitarist known for his time with Bon Jovi, recently regained possession of his beloved 1976 Gibson Explorer guitar after an astonishing 41-year absence. The instrument was stolen from a warehouse in New Jersey back in 1985 during a concert tour, leading Sambora to believe he would never see it again. However, fate intervened when the guitar surfaced at a vintage guitar shop in Paris earlier this year, marking a dramatic reunion for the 66-year-old musician.

Sambora described the surreal experience of rediscovering his long-lost guitar as a “mindf–k,” reflecting on the deep connection he felt when he first played it after its return. “It seemed like it was untouched. It’s almost in perfect shape,” he shared in an interview, expressing his astonishment at the guitar’s condition after so many years apart. The instrument played a pivotal role in Sambora’s early career, featuring prominently in Bon Jovi’s debut album and the 1985 follow-up, “7800° Fahrenheit.”

Originally purchased at Lou Rose Music Center in Edison, New Jersey, Sambora was inspired to acquire the guitar after witnessing Eric Clapton performing with a similar model. Despite being initially out of his financial reach, he was able to make payments over time. The guitarist subsequently customised the instrument to his specifications, collaborating with renowned luthier Phil Petillo, who was recommended by fellow New Jersey musician Bruce Springsteen. Sambora fondly recalled the importance of the guitar in shaping his artistic identity: “When I wanted to be a badass, that’s what I took out,” he remarked.

The theft occurred just days before Bon Jovi’s tour to Japan, when thieves broke into the storage facility where the band’s equipment was kept. “The record company had to lend us money to buy new equipment,” Sambora recalled. Although this setback did not hinder his trajectory, it was a painful loss, particularly given the sentimental value of the instrument.

Interestingly, Sambora had a brief opportunity to reclaim his guitar only a decade ago. He received an unexpected call from Guitar Center in New Jersey, informing him that his Explorer had been sold to another person. Sambora promptly reached out to the buyer, offering to pay twice the amount for its return, but unfortunately, he did not receive a response. Determined to recover the instrument, he even enlisted the help of a private detective to aid in his search.

This year, Sambora’s resolution paid off after a local guitar dealer contacted him with exciting news. The guitar had been traced to Matt’s Guitar Shop in Paris, where it was sold by an individual who claimed it belonged to the guitarist. Matthieu Lucas, the shop’s owner, quickly recognised the guitar’s significance and worked to facilitate its return. “He sent me a picture and I go, ‘Get the f–k out of here. You got it,’” Sambora recounted, praising Lucas’s efforts to reunite him with his treasured instrument.

Now, with his guitar back in hand, Sambora plans to perform with it for the first time in decades at the Unbridled Eve Derby Gala in May, preceding the Kentucky Derby in Louisville. The comeback is especially poignant for Sambora, who faced personal challenges in recent years, including a hand injury from playing touch football and the loss of his mother, Joan, in January.

This remarkable story of reunion exemplifies the powerful bond between an artist and their instrument, underlining the emotional weight of music in a musician’s life. Sambora’s journey to reclaim his Gibson Explorer not only highlights the unpredictability of life, but also serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of his artistry. As fans eagerly await his upcoming performance, Sambora’s tale reminds us that sometimes, lost things can find their way back home.