Muse Frontman Matt Bellamy Acquires Manson Guitar Works, Gifts Tom Morello a Custom-Made Model

Muse’s Matt Bellamy has been a staunch user of various models from the Manson Guitar Works line, including several of his own signature designs, for more than two decades. Now, Bellamy has acquired a majority share of the U.K.-based company.

“I’m excited to be taking ownership of Manson Guitar Works and developing its potential in the future,” Bellamy said in a statement. “Having played Manson Guitars since I was able to co-design my first custom guitar I have the best insight into the products.”

Luthier and brand founder Hugh Manson will remain a consultant to the company while transitioning into semi-retirement.

Perhaps to celebrate the acquisition, Bellamy also recently presented Tom Morello with a custom-made Manson. “[Tom Morello] has been a huge inspiration to me growing up, a guitar legend,” Bellamy said in an Instagram post. “Proud to be able to give him a guitar I had made inspired by his playing and his message. Thanks for joining us on this UK tour, it’s been a blast!” 

Thank you for reading 5 articles this month**

Join now for unlimited access

US pricing $3.99 per month or $39.00 per year

UK pricing £2.99 per month or £29.00 per year 

Europe pricing €3.49 per month or €34.00 per year

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Prices from £2.99/$3.99/€3.49

Richard Bienstock

Rich is the co-author of the best-selling Nöthin' But a Good Time: The Uncensored History of the '80s Hard Rock Explosion. He is also a recording and performing musician, and a former editor of Guitar World magazine and executive editor of Guitar Aficionado magazine. He has authored several additional books, among them Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck, the companion to the documentary of the same name.