Musicians around the globe are saluting the legendary guitarist and singer song-writer Bert Jansch who would have turned 75 in November 2018. A special guitar is travelling across continents from artist to artist, enabling them to connect with the man and his music.

"A lot of people are going to have a lot of fun playing something on this guitar."

Ralph McTell Bert's dear friend and colleague from the 1960s

The Journey

Each chosen artist is playing something Bert-inspired. It might be a piece they have specially created, or their version of a Bert song – or something of their own that resonates with Bert’s music or his ecological and social concerns. Each musician sends their video here, to the Bert Jansch Foundation, before choosing the next artist who will receive the travelling guitar. Bert’s light is still riding high – as evidenced by these amazing artists and their tributes.

Johnny Marr Starts the Journey

Johnny Marr, guitarists of the Smiths, who became friends and performed with Bert in his later years kicked-off this journey playing on the latest version of Bert’s favourite Yamaha – the LL TransAcoustic. Johnny is captivated by the ‘hidden magic’ within this guitar and we are sure that Bert would have loved it too. This is the guitar chosen by the Bert Jansch Foundation to travel across continents for Around the world in 80 plays – a project that will support the Foundation’s aims of helping young acoustic musicians.

Go to Johnny’s page

Latest Video - Gerry Leonard

Former musician director for David Bowie, Gerry Leonard has created a unique track to honour Bert and Bowie. More details on Gerry’s page.

The Artists

Wildcard

If you would like to participate or to nominate someone else for a ‘wildcard’ stopover on this journey, apply to the Bert Jansch Foundation by email and say why you or your nominee should be considered.

Email us