Lita Ford reunited with stolen B.C. Rich guitar
Lita Ford, the celebrated guitarist, found herself in a peculiar situation when her prized B.C. Rich Mockingbird guitar was stolen but later reappeared in a surprising turn of events during an audition. Ford shared this intriguing story, recounting how one of her guitars went missing – a gorgeous turquoise-green Mockingbird with an ebony fretboard and no fret inlays. During guitar player auditions at her studio, a man arrived with the very same guitar that had been stolen from her. Despite recognizing it as her own, Ford couldn’t bring herself to reclaim it as the man had purchased it off the street and was unaware of its origins. Although he didn’t make the cut for the audition, he left with the guitar, oblivious to its true owner.
Throughout her illustrious career spanning over five decades, Ford has accumulated a wealth of guitar-related experiences. From her early days playing a chocolate-finished Gibson SG with The Runaways to her current projects, guitars have been an integral part of her musical journey. Currently, Ford is collaborating with renowned luthier Neal Moser to create a custom guitar. Moser, known for his work with B.C. Rich Guitars in the past, is crafting a unique guitar for Ford called the Raven. Impressed by its futuristic and edgy design, Ford insisted on incorporating specific features like a Kahler tremolo and DiMarzio Super Distortions, opting for an all-black look with no inlays to add a touch of mystery to her playing.
Reflecting on her experiences and preferences, Ford explained her affinity for guitars that challenge traditional expectations and capture attention with their distinctive aesthetic. She emphasized the importance of creating a visual impact while performing by choosing guitars that stand out and intrigue the audience. Describing her new guitar as both dangerous and sexy, Ford’s passion for unique instruments shines through in her choice of design and features. Additionally, Ford addressed a longstanding rumor that she was considered as a replacement for bassist John Paul Jones in Led Zeppelin, shedding light on the diverse opportunities and experiences she has encountered throughout her career.
In the realm of guitarists, each instrument holds a unique story and significance for its owner. For Lita Ford, the journey with her guitars has been marked by memorable encounters, challenges, and the quest for instruments that not only sound exceptional but also embody her artistic vision. As she continues to explore new musical horizons and collaborate with talented craftsmen like Neal Moser, Ford’s dedication to her craft and passion for guitars remain unwavering. Each guitar she owns tells a part of her story, reflecting her evolution as a musician and her enduring commitment to creating music that captivates and inspires audiences worldwide.