Ladies and gentlemen, let’s rise in anticipation for the headlining act of the evening! These rock stars began their journey in humble band vans, endured the trials of tour buses, and graced red carpets by leaping out of limousines. Now that they’ve conquered the music world, what extravagant rides did they splurge their royalties on? Join us as we explore the vehicular choices of 20 music industry titans, showcasing the crème de la crème of rock stars’ cars. If we’ve unintentionally overlooked your favorite musician or their preferred wheels, share it with the Hagerty Community below. Without further ado, let the show begin!
Keith Moon: Ferrari Dino 246 GTS
The notoriously destructive drummer of The Who, Keith Moon, had a tumultuous relationship with cars, much like everything else he encountered. Infamous for once driving a Lincoln Continental into a swimming pool, Moon’s 1972 Ferrari Dino 246 GTS didn’t escape unscathed from his ownership either. After indulging in a few pints at a local pub, Moon generously handed the Dino’s keys to a group of bikers. Their joyride took a chaotic turn as they maneuvered the sleek Ferrari into a ditch before making a hasty escape. True to his character, Moon displayed little concern for the resulting damage, maintaining his nonchalant attitude amidst the automotive chaos.
Neil Young: LincVolt
Neil Young, a devoted advocate of alternative fuel and eco-friendly vehicles, reportedly invested over a million dollars in crafting his personalized plug-in electro-turbine series-hybrid car, famously known as the LincVolt. With a mission to achieve an impressive 100 mpg from his vintage 1959 Lincoln Continental Mark IV, Young undertook a comprehensive retrofitting process, incorporating a hybrid engine capable of running on biodiesel, petroleum-based diesel, plugging into the electrical grid, or a combination of these sources. Although falling short of his targeted 100 mpg, the LincVolt still achieves a commendable 65 mpg on gasoline, rivaling the efficiency of a Toyota Prius. Beyond its fuel efficiency, the LincVolt boasts a distinctive charm that surpasses the unassuming appearance of a Prius.
Keith Richards: Bentley S3 Continental Flying Spur
The iconic guitarist of The Rolling Stones, Keith Richards, found himself behind the wheel of a Bentley S3 Continental Flying Spur. Renowned for his timeless riffs and rock ‘n’ roll persona, Richards chose a car that mirrored his classic and sophisticated style. The Bentley S3 Continental Flying Spur perfectly complemented Richards’ legendary status, combining the elegance of a bygone era with the power and grace that defined both his music and his choice of automobiles.
Ginger Baker: Jensen FF
The iconic drummer Ginger Baker, known for his explosive beats with Cream and Blind Faith, chose the Jensen FF as his ride. In harmony with his avant-garde approach to music, the Jensen FF showcased Baker’s taste for the unconventional. The British-made Jensen FF, with its innovative four-wheel-drive system, mirrored Baker’s penchant for pushing boundaries, both in his drumming style and automotive preferences. As a symbol of Baker’s distinctive flair, the Jensen FF adds a rhythmic touch to the rock legend’s legacy, blending the worlds of music and motoring in true Baker style.
Pete Townshend: Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Limousine
Renowned guitarist and songwriter Pete Townshend opted for opulence with the Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Limousine. The sophisticated choice befitting The Who’s creative force reflects Townshend’s penchant for refined elegance. Just as he crafted intricate musical masterpieces, Townshend’s selection of the Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Limousine symbolizes a harmonious blend of luxury and artistic taste. Riding in style, Townshend takes to the road in a vehicle that mirrors the grandeur of his musical legacy, creating a seamless fusion of sophistication and rock ‘n’ roll flair.
Steven Tyler: Hennessey Venom GT Spyder
In 2012, Aerosmith’s lead singer, Steven Tyler, acquired the inaugural convertible model of Hennessey’s Venom GT, already celebrated for surpassing the speed of a Bugatti Veyron. Crafted from a Lotus Exige base, the Venom GT held the Guinness World Record for the fastest 0-200mph acceleration, accomplishing the feat in a breathtaking 14.5 seconds. With a remarkable 1200hp and a jaw-dropping top speed of 270mph, this bespoke Venom GT was specifically tailored for Tyler, who collaborated with the Texas-based company to create a unique Spyder version.
This extraordinary vehicle went under the hammer in 2017, fetching $800,000 at auction, with the entire proceeds dedicated to charitable causes. The lucky new owner not only acquired a record-breaking automobile but also received an added perk – a complimentary week’s stay at Steven Tyler’s Maui beach house, a testament to the rockstar’s generosity and flair for extraordinary experiences.
Slash: 1966 Corvette
The iconic guitarist of Guns N’ Roses, Slash, chose the 1966 Corvette to accompany him on the asphalt stage. Much like his electrifying guitar riffs, the 1966 Corvette exudes a timeless and powerful presence. Slash’s affinity for this classic American muscle car reflects his rebellious spirit and distinctive style. Cruising in the ’66 Corvette, Slash not only maneuvers through the streets but also leaves an indelible mark, merging the adrenaline of rock and the raw power of a legendary automobile. In the hands of Slash, the 1966 Corvette becomes more than just a car; it becomes a symbol of his musical prowess and free-spirited persona.
Jimi Hendrix: 1967 Corvette Stingray
The legendary Jimi Hendrix, known for his groundbreaking guitar skills, chose the 1967 Corvette Stingray as his four-wheeled companion. Much like his music, the sleek and powerful Stingray mirrored Hendrix’s iconic style, making it a fitting choice for the rock virtuoso. Cruising in this classic American muscle car, Hendrix added a new riff to the roads, embodying the spirit of freedom and expression that defined both his music and his choice of wheels. The 1967 Corvette Stingray stands not only as an automotive icon but also as a symbol of Hendrix’s enduring impact on the world of rock and roll.OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT (3.5) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com
Source: OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT (3.5) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com
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