AXE Grindin'
Good KARMA 

by Lisa Sharken, Vintage Guitar - April 2001

Transcribed by Jaz (jaz@theblackcrowes.com)

As a huge fan of Aerosmith and Joe Perry, Slash was thrilled to have the opportunity to own on of his mentor's most famous guitars - the 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard Perry used to record Aerosmith's Rocks album and write such revered tunes as "Walk This Way." However, even though he was the rightul owner, Slash always viewed the instrument as "Joe's guitar." 

As much as he loved the instrument, after many of his guitars were stolen from his home, Slash felt this precious gem truly belonged back with Perry. 

"I know it's the right thing to do," Slash said of giving the guitar back. "I was lucky, because at the time of the robbery, all of the guitars I really cherished wer with me in the studio. I knew how much Joe loved this guitar and after that happened, it was time the guitar was returned to him." 

Slash met with Aerosmith singer steven Tyler after Slash's performance at Madison Square Garden, and learned that the band was hosting a party for Perry, in honor of his 50th birthday on September 10. Slash decided to send the Les Paul as a surprise gift. He wanted to be certain the guitar would go directly to Perry, without his hero knowing how it arrived or who it came from. Fortunately, CG was able to put him directly in touch with Perry's tech, and a few days later the guitar was packed up and on it's way to Massachusetts. It arrived just in time for a surprise presentation. Just before Aerosmith was set to perform, Perry's tech gave an unexpected intro and handed him the guitar - freshly strung, tuned up, and ready to go. Needless to say, Perry was elated. 

For Slash, it was a gift of good karma, and the opportunity to give something back to a player who gave him so much inspiration.