The Glastonbury Festival, celebrated as the world’s largest and most iconic music festival, once again dazzled audiences at Worthy Farm in 2025. Among the 3,000 performers who graced the stages, it was not just the music that captivated attendees but also the extraordinary guitars that made an appearance. From custom creations to vintage classics, these instruments were as much a part of the spectacle as the artists themselves.
This year, certain guitars stood out for their uniqueness, rarity, and sheer audacity. Here, we explore some of the most remarkable guitars that made waves at Glastonbury over the weekend.
Matty Healy’s Octave Fuzz Telecaster
Headlining the Pyramid Stage on Friday night, The 1975’s frontman Matty Healy showcased a guitar that caught the attention of many. While Adam Hann typically handles most of the guitar work for the band, Healy’s choice for the evening was a standout—a custom Telecaster with see-through scratchplates and unconventional wiring.
This intriguing instrument is the brainchild of Levi Perry, a builder from the Fender Custom Shop known for integrating built-in effects into his creations. The Fuzz Brain ’67 Tele, as it is called, features built-in fuzz, octave, and delay circuits. Although Healy didn’t engage these effects during the set, the guitar remains a fascinating take on the classic ‘Smuggler’ Tele.
Beabadoobee’s Fairlaine Zephyr
London-based boutique luthier Fairlane has garnered a cult following among British and Irish musicians, and Beabadoobee is no exception. Her custom pink Zephyr, branded under Fairlane’s former name, Providence, has been her guitar of choice for several years. This instrument exemplifies the growing trend of boutique guitars gaining prominence on major stages.
Rhian Teasdale’s BC Rich Mockingbird Acrylic
Rhian Teasdale of Wet Leg brought a touch of irony and nostalgia with her BC Rich Mockingbird Acrylic in Antifreeze yellow. Known for their weight, these lucite-bodied guitars are not for the faint-hearted. However, their distinct appearance has made them a favorite among musicians seeking an edgy aesthetic. Teasdale’s choice suggests a potential resurgence of BC Rich guitars as a symbol of cool irreverence.
Meanwhile, Wet Leg’s lead guitarist, Hester Chambers, has swapped her offsets for a Kramer Galaxie, hinting at a possible SuperStrat revival. With artists like Turnstile’s Meg Mills and Olivia Rodrigo’s guitarist Daisy Spencer also opting for Jackson SuperStrats, the evidence of a crossover comeback is mounting.
Ron Wood’s Zemaitis ‘Disc Front’
During the festival’s Sunday afternoon legends slot, Rolling Stones guitarist Ron Wood joined Rod Stewart on stage with one of his most iconic guitars, the Tony Zemaitis ‘Disc Front’. Created in 1971, this guitar has been a staple in Wood’s arsenal throughout his career with The Faces and The Stones. Zemaitis guitars, known for their metal and pearl fronts, were a favorite among legendary musicians of the era, including Hendrix and Harrison.
Other Noteworthy Guitars
Noah Kahan’s Fender Starcaster
Noah Kahan, who has become a global sensation, surprised fans with a vintage black Fender Starcaster, complete with Wide-Range humbuckers. This choice marked a departure from his usual Gibson semis and acoustics, showcasing the versatility and appeal of Fender semi-hollows.
Ellie Rowsell’s 1970s Gretsch Super Chet
Ellie Rowsell of Wolf Alice has typically favored Fender Telecasters and Jazzmasters. However, her current guitar of choice is a Gretsch Super Chet, an unusual model produced between 1973 and 1980. With its ornate pearl work and pickguard-mounted controls, the Super Chet is a testament to Rowsell’s eclectic taste and the diverse guitar landscape at Glastonbury.
Olivia Rodrigo’s Modded Vintage Mustang
Closing the festival on Sunday night, Olivia Rodrigo showcased a vintage Mustang with a unique twist. This mid-60s model features a custom hardtail tailpiece and a Mastery bridge, diverging from the classic Mustang tremolo system. Rodrigo’s choice reflects her innovative approach to music and instrument customization.
Neil Young’s Old Black
Neil Young, a headliner on Saturday night, brought out some of his most iconic instruments, including the legendary Old Black. This black-refinished 1953 Les Paul, equipped with a Firebird mini-humbucker and a Bigsby vibrato, has been Young’s constant companion since his Buffalo Springfield days. Its presence at Glastonbury 2025 underscored the enduring legacy of classic guitars.
The diverse array of guitars at Glastonbury 2025 not only highlighted the festival’s musical diversity but also underscored the evolving trends in guitar craftsmanship and performance. As artists continue to push the boundaries of sound and style, these instruments remain at the forefront of musical innovation, promising exciting developments in the years to come.
