Photo: MIGUEL SCHINCARIOL / AFP / Getty Images
Paul McCartney has reacted after Höfner, the German instrument company known for its iconic violin bass, filed for bankruptcy.
McCartney, who has been associated with the Höfner 500/1 Violin Bass since 1961, shared his thoughts on Instagram. "It is very sad to see Höfner go out of business," he wrote. "I bought my first Höfner bass in the sixties, and I have loved it ever since. It’s a wonderful instrument to play: lightweight, and it encourages me to play quite freely. It also offers pleasing variations in tone that I enjoy. So, commiserations to everyone at Höfner, and thank you for all your help over the years."
The Beatles' association with Höfner dates back to their early days. McCartney purchased his first Höfner bass in 1961, which he used on iconic tracks like "She Loves You" and "I Wanna Hold Your Hand."
Höfner just recently celebrated 135 years in business in 2022. The company's history dates back to 1887 when Karl Höfner founded the company in Schönbach, now part of the Czech Republic. The company became a significant supplier of stringed instruments and expanded its operations in West Germany post-World War II. Over the years, Höfner has changed ownership several times, with its most recent owners being Klaus Schöller and Ulrike Schrimpff.
While the future remains uncertain, McCartney's tribute highlights the lasting impact of Höfner's instruments on music history.
