news 
Stolen Rolling Stones Guitar Resurfaces at New York Museum After 54 Years
In a shocking turn of events, the stolen Gibson Les Paul Standard guitar originally owned by former Rolling Stones guitarist Mick Taylor has been discovered in the collection of the New York Metropolitan Museum of Art. The iconic instrument, stolen in France during recording sessions for the band’s groundbreaking album Exile on Main St. in 1971, has finally resurfaced after a staggering 54 years.
According to sources close to the investigation, the guitar was reportedly stolen by Marseille drug dealers who were owed money by Keith Richards, a member of The Rolling Stones. The heist took place while occupants of Villa Nellcôte watched TV, resulting in the loss of nine guitars and other instruments belonging to band members and associates.
A guitar with a unique flaming pattern on its body has been confirmed as the one owned by Taylor, who had purchased it from Richards in 1967. The instrument’s distinctive design serves as a fingerprint, making identification impossible without further examination. The guitarist’s business manager and partner, Marlies Damming, corroborated this claim.
Taylor is said to be perplexed about how his guitar ended up at the Met, which has not been forthcoming with information regarding the instrument’s provenance or its acquisition history. Despite having never received compensation for the theft, Taylor remains mystified by the unexpected turn of events, leaving fans and collectors alike wondering what other hidden gems might be lurking within the museum’s vast collection.
The sudden reappearance of this treasured guitar has reignited long-standing speculation about the Rolling Stones’ tumultuous past.
Source: www.billboard.com
