Music
27 Jun 25

Joe Bonamassa gets his hands on Rory Gallagher's 1930 National Triolian resonator guitar ahead of next week's Live at the Marquee shows

Gerry McAvoy is set to join Joe Bonamassa at the three Cork shows, kicking off on Tuesday.

Ahead of his special run of Live at the Marquee shows celebrating Rory Gallagher (July 1, 2 and 3), American blues rock icon Joe Bonamassa has taken to social media, to share a special shot of Rory's 1930 National Triolian resonator guitar.

"This is one of the coolest guitars I have ever had the honour to play," Bonamassa, a long-time fan of the Irish music legend, remarked. "And yes it is the one you think it is... Big thanks to everyone who helped put this together."

Rory bought the National while touring the US in 1973, and he famously played it on 'As The Crow Flies', from the Irish Tour '74 film and album. It was one of many iconic Rory Gallagher instruments that went up for auction in London last year – with the guitar ultimately selling for £95,650.

Bonamassa's Cork gigs – which mark the 30th anniversary of the death of Rory Gallagher, aged 47 – were announced at a special event in the Oliver Plunkett in Cork last September. The event featured a live performance from Bonamassa and his band, while attendees included Rory's brother and manager Dónal Gallagher; Dónal's son, musician, archivist and producer Daniel Gallagher; and Gerry McAvoy, who played, recorded and toured with Rory for 20 years.

Back in April, it was announced that Gerry McAvoy is also set to feature as a special guest at the Live at the Marquee shows.

“I’m so pleased to have been invited to take part in the Rory Gallagher Celebration in Cork and join Joe on stage with his band of musicians to perform one or two of Rory’s greatest numbers," Gerry comments. "They will be three unforgettable nights for everyone involved and a fitting tribute in memory of my friend Rory – a truly wonderful man who I was honoured to stand alongside for more than 20 years.”

For more information about tickets for this special celebration of Rory Gallagher, see Ticketmaster.ie