Rock star Matt Bellamy is now the proud owner of a Devon workshop that makes all of his guitars and has a client list that reads like the A-Z or rock.
The guitarist and songwriter who hails from Teignmouth has become the majority shareholder in Manson Guitar Works, the Devon guitar maker that has supplied the biggest names in music from Foo Fighters' Dave Grohl to Led Zeppelin's John Paul Jones to Bude's very own Seasick Steve.
Matt has used Manson instruments on stage and in the studio almost exclusively for 20 years.
He said: “I’m excited to be taking ownership of Manson Guitar Works and developing its potential in the future. Having played Manson Guitars since I was able to co-design my first custom guitar I have the best insight into the products.”
Owner Hugh Manson, 65, wants to semi-retire but will stay on as a consultant in the business that he has built up over decades.
Manson Guitar Works has a reputation of producing mainstream and highly innovative instruments used by respected musicians globally. The combination of Bellamy’s stage presence and musicianship with the manufacturer’s market position will put the new company at the forefront of guitar technology and creativity.
Manson also has a guitar shop in Fore Street Exeter and Manson Guitar Works is its manufacturing HQ. It has just moved to industrial premises in Ashburton and has already seen an increase in production and new models launched.
Adrian Ashton, continues as Chief Executive for Manson Guitar Works.
He said: "This is an exciting development which will build on the great relationship we have developed with Matthew over two decades."
