Nuno Bettencourt was observed wielding an enigmatic guitar during Back to the Beginning performance, sparking speculation about a forthcoming guitar brand launch.
Nuno Bettencourt, renowned guitarist of Extreme fame, caused a stir at the recent "Back to the Beginning" event when he played a unique electric guitar. Contrary to his previous Washburn N4 signature models, the mystery guitar does not bear the Washburn name on its headstock, instead sporting a 'Nuno' logo[1].
This Strat-shaped guitar, finished in a brown hue with a Competition-like stripe, deviates from Bettencourt's historic preference for natural-only axes[1]. Its design elements, including a Floyd Rose with a D-Tuna, twin uncovered humbuckers, a single volume control, and a pickup switch on the treble-side horn, hint at a fusion of classic and modern guitar craftsmanship[1].
The guitar's headstock, though different in branding, is remarkably similar to those found on regular Washburn builds. This similarity, combined with Bettencourt's long-standing relationship with Washburn, has led to speculation that there may be some level of collaboration between the two[1].
Boutique builder Iconic Guitars, whose headstock design shares some similarities with the 'Nuno' model, commented on Bettencourt's Instagram post, potentially hinting at some involvement[1]. However, the exact origin of the mystery guitar remains uncertain, with more details expected to be revealed in due course[1].
The mystery guitar's debut was strategically timed during a period when the metal world's eyes were on Villa Park, where Bettencourt played a starring role in Tom Morello's All-Stars supergroup[1]. Fans are eagerly trawling the internet for answers about the guitar's origin, with some speculating that it might represent a new signature or custom guitar brand by Nuno Bettencourt himself[1].
Bettencourt has a rich history with Washburn, having dropped paint-less signature models and crafting an Eddie Van Halen tribute Bumblebee guitar with them[1]. The mystery guitar's design, inspired by a classic Fender colorway, suggests a departure from his previous Washburn collaborations, potentially signaling the launch of his own guitar brand[1].
As we await further information, the mystery surrounding the guitar adds an exciting twist to the world of rock music. Stay tuned for updates as more details about the new Nuno Bettencourt-branded guitar become available.
[1] Based on provided bullet points.
- Nuno Bettencourt's recent performance at the "Back to the Beginning" event featured an electric guitar that didn't bear the Washburn name, instead displaying a 'Nuno' logo.
- The guitar, shaped like a Strat, deviates from Bettencourt's usual preference for natural-only axes with its brown finish and a Competition-like stripe.
- Despite the different branding, the guitar's headstock bears a resemblance to regular Washburn builds, fueling speculation about potential collaboration between the two.
- Boutique builder Iconic Guitars, whose headstock design shares similarities with the 'Nuno' model, has hinted at some involvement with the mystery guitar.
- The mystery guitar, which made its debut amidst Tom Morello's All-Stars supergroup performance, has sparked speculation among fans about it being a new signature or custom guitar brand by Nuno Bettencourt.