Heart plead with fans to help find “irreplaceable” stolen instruments ahead of tour
A day before Heart kicked off their summer tour in New Jersey on May 31st, two of their most prized instruments were stolen.
On May 30th, the iconic rock band arrived at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City to set up ahead of a show at the venue the following day. However, they were dismayed to discover the loss of two of their instruments upon returning to the building after preparing for the concert.
A statement issued on behalf of the band reads: “Members of the legendary rock band Heart were devastated to discover that two irreplaceable instruments were stolen from the venue, where gear had been set up the day prior to the show.”
The stolen items include a “custom-built, one-of-a-kind purple sparkle baritone Telecaster with a hand-painted headstock, crafted specifically for [guitarist] Nancy Wilson”. They have also lost a “vintage 1966 Gibson EM-50 mandolin”, which multi-instrumentalist Paul Moak has played during their show for a number of decades.
Meanwhile, Nancy Wilson emotionally said: “These instruments are more than just tools of our trade — they’re extensions of our musical souls. The baritone Tele was made uniquely for me, and Paul’s mandolin has been with him for decades.”
She added: “We’re heartbroken, and we’re asking for their safe return — no questions asked. Their value to us is immeasurable.”
Heart are prepared to pay an undisclosed amount for the return of the two instruments. They are also asking any individuals with relevant information to contact their tour manager, Tony Moon, by email at [email protected].
The tour, with Squeeze and Cheap Trick, began on May 31st at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City. This leg will conclude in Hollywood, Florida, on June 28th. Heart will return to the road in August for another set of dates with Todd Rundgren.
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