John Fahey

John Fahey was not known to play fancy instruments. He tended to pick up inexpensive guitars and then pawn them when he needed cash. During his heyday in the late ’60s and early ’70s, Fahey was partial to a 1930s Gibson Recording King with a sunburst top and a bell-like tone. He used it to record some of his most enduring albums, including America, Of Rivers and Religion, After the Ball, and Fare Forward Voyagers.

John Fahey can be seen playing his Bacon and Day Senorita guitar in this live video from 1969.

In the video titled "John Fahey - Poor Boys Long Way From Home," John Fahey is seen playing a Martin D-28. However, based on the visible three-piece back and interior bracing in other segments of the concert, it appears he is actually using a Martin D-35.

John can be seen here using his D-35 which he used from 1978 up until the early nineties. There are various photos of him playing one. To my knowledge he never played a D-28.

In this photo, Fahey can be seen with his Fender Telecaster. One of the lesser known facts is that Fahey used effects pedals, and in this photo, he can be seen setting up one. (Possibly some kind of Boss effect.)

John Fahey can be seen playing this guitar lap steel style in this video.