John Diggins, the founder of Jaydee Custom Guitars and one of the most respected luthiers in the world, passed away on January 2, 2024, at the age of 74. He was surrounded by his family and friends at his home in Birmingham, England.
Diggins was best known for creating the iconic Jaydee Supernatural bass for Mark King of Level 42, and the Jaydee Old Boy guitar for Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath. He also built guitars for many other famous musicians, such as Angus Young of AC/DC, George Anderson of Shakatak, Roy Orbison, Lester J Batchelor of Central Line, and Jaymi Millard of Islander.
John started his career as a carpenter and cabinet maker, but soon developed a passion for guitars. He joined John Birch Guitars in 1972, where he learned the art of guitar making from the master himself. He worked on many custom projects for Birch, including the famous John Birch SG for Iommi, which became his favorite guitar.
In 1977, Diggins left Birch and founded his own company, Jaydee Custom Guitars, with his wife Denise. He continued to work closely with Iommi, and in 1978, he built him the Jaydee Old Boy, a black SG-style guitar with a mahogany body, a walnut strip, and 24 frets. The Old Boy became Iommi’s main guitar for over 40 years, and was featured on many classic albums and tours.
What a terrible shock to hear from JDs wife last night that my old pal John Diggins had passed away! He was a very dear friend to me and we’d known each other since the 70s. He’s built many guitars for me over the years and he was a superb craftsman who loved what he did. He will… pic.twitter.com/XDopY4c8i1
— Tony Iommi (@tonyiommi) January 3, 2024
John also forged a lasting relationship with Mark King, who approached him in 1980 with a request for a custom bass. Diggins designed and built the Jaydee Supernatural, a sleek and futuristic bass with a maple and walnut body, a graphite neck, and active electronics. The Supernatural became King’s signature instrument, and helped him achieve his distinctive slap and pop style.
Diggins was renowned for his craftsmanship, attention to detail, and innovation. He used high-quality materials, such as exotic woods, metals, and plastics, and experimented with different shapes, sizes, and features. He also invented his own pickups, bridges, and hardware, and constantly improved his designs based on feedback from his clients.
John Diggins was not only a skilled luthier, but also a generous and humble person. He treated every customer with respect and care, and always delivered his best work. He was always willing to share his knowledge and experience with other guitar makers and enthusiasts, and mentored many young luthiers. He was also a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, who loved his family dearly.
Diggins’ legacy lives on through his guitars, which are cherished by many musicians and collectors around the world. His guitars are also displayed in several museums and exhibitions, such as the Hard Rock Cafe, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery.
John Diggins’ family and friends have expressed their grief and gratitude for his life and work. They have also requested privacy and respect during this difficult time. They have set up a memorial fund in his name, which will support various charities and causes that he cared about.
Diggins’ fans and admirers have also paid tribute to him on social media, using the hashtag #RIPJohnDiggins. They have shared their memories, photos, and videos of him and his guitars, and thanked him for his contribution to music and guitar culture.
Diggins will be remembered as a legend, a pioneer, and a friend. He will be missed by many, but his spirit will live on through his guitars. He was truly a master of his craft, and a supernatural force in the guitar world. Rest in peace, John Diggins. You rocked our world.
