Search for Brad Delp’s missing Boston acoustic guitar underway

New efforts have been set in motion to locate the missing acoustic guitar once owned by the late Boston legend Brad Delp. The guitar in question is the Taylor 885, a 12-string acoustic known for its appearance in the “More Than A Feeling” music video. This cherished instrument disappeared in 2009 and is now the focal point of a social media campaign aimed at reuniting it with Delp’s family.

Taking inspiration from the Lost Bass Project, which successfully tracked down Paul McCartney’s missing Höfner violin bass in 2024, the quest for Delp’s Taylor is gaining traction on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and more. With support from Taylor Guitars and Norman’s Rare Guitars, this initiative is hoping to raise awareness and jog someone’s memory about the guitar’s whereabouts.

Timothy Dwelle, leading the charge in this endeavor, is collaborating closely with Micki Delp and the rest of Brad Delp’s family. Following a heartfelt plea from Micki on social media earlier this year, fans have been encouraged to check serial numbers and provide any leads that could help bring the Taylor 885 home. Micki shared how this unique 1976 Taylor Custom 885, with Serial Number 20173, was made specifically for Brad Delp, making it an invaluable piece with deep sentimental value to the family.

This guitar holds significant historical and personal significance as it was featured in the iconic “More Than A Feeling” music video and remained one of Delp’s cherished instruments. Since its disappearance, the family has been holding out hope that it will resurface one day, especially now that Delp has a grandson who shares a passion for music and would love to play his “Grampy’s” guitar.

The current search team believes there’s a high possibility that the Taylor 885 might still be within reach, possibly stashed away in a Los Angeles attic, closet, or storage unit. Dwelle remains hopeful that, with greater visibility, the guitar could be located, drawing parallels to the incredible recovery of McCartney’s bass after being lost for half a century. Dwelle emphasizes that while Delp’s voice is what the world remembers most, this guitar holds personal significance to him and stands as a beloved instrument that accompanied him on his musical journey.

The search continues for Delp’s Taylor 885, evoking the spirit of connection and nostalgia within the music community. With concerted efforts and widespread visibility, there’s an optimistic outlook that this valuable acoustic guitar may soon find its way back to its rightful place among the cherished memorabilia of Brad Delp and the band Boston.