How Stephen Wilson Jr. acquired his trusty nylon-string guitar – Guitar World
Country rock musician Stephen Wilson Jr. found his beloved nylon-string guitar in a rather unconventional way – through a chance Craigslist encounter in Nashville. The guitar, a rare Takamine C136S, has since become his go-to instrument, earning the status of his workhorse in the music industry.
Describing the unusual circumstances of the purchase, Wilson recalls meeting a stranger in a van in a parking lot to finalize the deal. The seller even brought an amplifier that powered through a cigarette lighter to demonstrate the sound quality of the instrument. Despite the atypical setting and setup, Wilson instantly knew that this guitar was meant for him, dubbing it his “forever guitar.”
Although he wasn’t actively seeking out this particular model when he stumbled across it, Wilson felt an immediate connection to the Takamine C136S. The affordability and the perfect match between player and instrument sealed the deal, making it impossible for him to resist. Since that serendipitous encounter, Wilson has found it challenging to put the instrument down, showcasing the strong bond he shares with his nylon-string guitar.
When discussing his preference for nylon-string guitars, Wilson attributes his love for the instrument to his childhood influences, such as Al Di Meola, Paco de Lucía, and Willie Nelson. He highlights how classical guitar players, in particular, taught him invaluable lessons about guitar playing. By treating the instrument as a drum, they transformed the guitar into a percussive element, revolutionizing Wilson’s perspective on its capabilities.
Reflecting on the impact of legendary flamenco guitarist Paco de Lucía, Wilson emphasizes the transformative nature of the instrument when used as a percussion element. He draws parallels between the rhythmic qualities of flamenco guitar playing and the intricate techniques employed by classical guitarists. This fusion of styles and techniques has significantly influenced Wilson’s approach to his music, pushing him to explore the full potential of his nylon-string guitar.
In conclusion, Stephen Wilson Jr.’s journey with his nylon-string guitar serves as a testament to the unpredictable nature of musical discoveries. Through a chance encounter on Craigslist, he unearthed a rare gem that has since become an indispensable part of his musical identity. The story behind his forever guitar sheds light on the unique connections musicians forge with their instruments, emphasizing the profound impact they can have on creative expression and artistic development.