Framus Hootenanny: The Spirit of the Sixties Reborn in a Passionate Reissue
A forgotten icon of the 1960s, the Framus Hootenanny returns in 2025 with a faithful reissue, available in both 12 and 6-string versions. A legendary guitar made famous by John Lennon — perfect for vintage lovers and authentic tone seekers.
A 1965 Vibe Blowing Through the Guitar World Once More
Picture London, 1965. The Beatles are at the height of their fame. During the recording sessions for Help!, John Lennon walks into the studio carrying a rather unusual guitar. It’s neither a Gibson nor a Rickenbacker — it’s a uniquely designed German acoustic: the Framus Hootenanny.
It’s with this guitar that he records several acoustic tracks, including the iconic You’ve Got to Hide Your Love Away. George Harrison also briefly used it. For Beatles fans, the Hootenanny became a cult object — a tangible piece of pop history.
Then it vanished. Literally. Lennon’s original model was lost, missing for over 50 years.
2024: A Lost Guitar and a Historic Rediscovery
Last year, the music world held its breath — John Lennon’s original Hootenanny resurfaced in a long-forgotten attic, intact. At auction, it fetched a staggering $2.9 million. A revelation. The once-forgotten German acoustic was back in the spotlight, celebrated for both its history and distinctive looks.
For Framus, the timing was perfect: the ideal opportunity to resurrect a legendary instrument. But not as a mere collector’s replica — rather, as a fully playable, inspiring, modern guitar. And this time, in two versions: the original 12-string and a new, more accessible 6-string version.
The Framus Hootenanny Reissue
This isn’t a mass-produced instrument. Each Framus Hootenanny Reissue is carefully built to honor the original design — but with comfort, reliability, and playability tailored for today’s musicians.
Shared features for both models:
Top: Solid spruce for bright, responsive tone
Back & Sides: Solid sapele for warmth and balance
Neck: Solid mahogany with carbon reinforcements
Fingerboard: Ovangkol with a modern radius
Nut & Saddle: Genuine bone
Rosette: Inlaid wood design
Finish: Natural High Polish or Vintage Sunburst
Bridge: Iconic chrome trapeze tailpiece
Two Voices, Two Experiences
Hootenanny 12-String – The True Heir
This is the legend. The one Lennon played. It stays true to the original configuration, offering a lush harmonic palette, a natural chorus effect, and deep resonance that’s perfect for open chords, fingerpicking, and folk arrangements. Ideal for artists chasing that airy, authentic 60s acoustic vibe.
Hootenanny 6-String – A Modern Interpretation
A fresh take in the lineup, the 6-string version captures the design and spirit of the vintage model in a simpler, more approachable form. Easier to play, it’s suited to those seeking a versatile, comfortable acoustic guitar with vintage character. Perfect for singer-songwriters, folk lovers, and acoustic pop fans.
A Guitar That Connects You to Music History
Playing a Hootenanny isn’t just about playing an acoustic guitar — it’s about connecting with a piece of music history. It’s about feeling the spirit of a time when music changed the world. It’s about experiencing that organic, natural tone only great tonewoods and precise luthiery can deliver.
Whether you’re a vintage gear enthusiast, a Beatles fan, or simply looking for an inspiring new instrument, the Framus Hootenanny plugs you into an era, an energy, and raw musical emotion.
Why Fall in Love with a Framus Hootenanny?
Own a rare guitar with a rich history
Choose between the lushness of a 12-string or the simplicity of a 6-string
Enjoy premium German craftsmanship
Play a vintage-style instrument built for today’s stage and studio
Draw inspiration from legends while writing your own musical story
